Grid operators and coal interests are urging the Environmental Protection Agency to rethink a series of proposed rules to crack down harder on pollutants from coal-fired power plants, a signature environmental move by President Joe Biden’s administration that starkly contrasts the industry-friendly approach of former President Donald Trump.
In April, the Biden administration proposed a number of rules designed to reduce the release of toxins and other dangers from coal plants. That includes nitrogen oxide and mercury pollution, as well as cross-state smog. But such steps would make it nearly impossible to keep coal plants running, the industry argues. Coal interests see it as a gut punch to an industry that is already on its heels, with the future being focused more on lower-emitting sources, such as gas and renewable wind and solar.
