Rep. Casten Introduces Climate Bill to Cut Carbon Pollution in Electric, Industrial Sectors

(WASHINGTON, D.C. – October 14, 2020) Today, Representative Sean Casten (D-IL) introduced the Tradable Performance Standard Act, a bill that will significantly cut carbon pollution in the electric and industrial sectors.

This climate bill creates a tradable performance standard that requires power generators and industrial facilities to meet carbon intensity targets that lower pollution. The legislation is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from those sectors by 60% from 2019 levels by 2030 and 100% by 2040.

“Curbing climate pollution from the electric and industrial sectors is critical for tackling climate change, as these two sectors emit nearly half of total greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. Rep. Casten’s creative proposal will not only cut climate pollution from these sectors, it will help spur investment in clean energy and reduce harmful air pollution. Importantly, this bill should be complemented by strong legislation that ensures protections for disproportionately impacted communities and curbs pollution in other major emitting sectors like transportation.

“We are encouraged by Rep. Casten’s commitment to advancing clean energy, and we hope this bill will embolden other Members of Congress to craft ambitious climate solutions. The case for comprehensive climate legislation grows stronger, as the costs of inaction across our country become clearer every day.”

• Elizabeth Gore, Senior Vice President, Political Affairs, Environmental Defense Fund.