On March 27, 2012, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published proposed carbon pollution standards for new electric generating units at power plants. The goal of these standards is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from new, modified, and reconstructed power plants under Section 111(b) of the Clean Air Act. Needless to say, there were many interested parties that responded, including many in Kentucky. After receiving and considering more than 2.5 million comments, the EPA issued a revised proposal on Sept. 20, 2013.

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet (EEC) has responded to the EPA’s revised proposal. The Cabinet’s concerns with the proposed regulations include the following comments:

  • Potential devastating economic impacts: “We remain convinced that this iteration of rulemaking continues to jeopardize our state’s economy and future prosperity.”
  • Unreasonable and unattainable emissions limit for coal combustion: “The proposed standards effectively eliminate the construction of any new coal-fired power plants.”
  • Kentucky’s significant manufacturing base is reliant on stable and low electricity prices: “This proposed rule effectively eliminates Kentucky’s future ability to rely on our most abundant natural resource – coal.”
  • Kentucky remains committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions: “We share the goals of clean air, water, and land.”

It will be interesting to see how the final rule is implemented and its impact on Kentucky. If you have questions about the proposed rule and how it might affect your facility, contact the Smith Management Group at 859-231-8936.

See Kentucky’s entire response at: http://air.ky.gov/SiteCollectionDocuments/KY%20cover%20ltr%20%20comments%20on%20EGU%20GHG%20NSPS.pdf.

Sources:

http://kydep.wordpress.com/2014/04/25/envhelpky-gov-8/

http://www.c2es.org/federal/executive/epa/ghg-standards-for-new-power-plants