EDF Files Comments Calling for Strong EPA Limits on Climate Pollution from Power Plants

(Washington, D.C. – August 9, 2023) Environmental Defense Fund has filed comments calling on the EPA to set strong, protective standards for climate pollution from fossil fuel-fired power plants.

EDF’s comments outline reasons why strong standards are needed and are anchored in law, examine how the Inflation Reduction Act reinforces EPA’s action, and call on the agency to work closely with frontline communities.

“Climate change is an urgent and critical threat to all people, and power plant pollution is a huge part of that threat,” said EDF attorney Noha Haggag. "We urge EPA to adopt strong and comprehensive limits on climate pollution from new and existing fossil fuel power plants, to ensure that the pollution from both coal and gas burning power plants is addressed, and to act with urgency to finalize standards as soon as possible."

Climate change is a clear and present threat to human health and welfare, as underscored for all Americans during this summer’s heat waves, dangerous floods, and other extreme weather events. Power plants are one of the largest sources of climate pollution in the U.S. – responsible for almost one-third of all carbon pollution.

The Clean Air Act requires EPA to address climate pollution, and the agency’s authority to adopt carbon reduction standards for power plants was reinforced when Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act last year. The historic investments under the Inflation Reduction Act are also accelerating the widespread availability of clean, reliable and low-cost energy.

EDF’s comments urge EPA to engage with environmental justice communities and prioritize the concerns of those who will be most impacted by the rule.

“There is crucial work necessary to ensure the serious and long-standing community concerns about carbon capture and hydrogen technologies are acknowledged and addressed consistent with environmental justice, leading science, and public health, public safety and environmental protections,” said Haggag.

You can read EDF’s full comments here.