EPA Delays Key Environmental Regulations for Fossil Fuel Plants Until Post-Election

In a surprising move, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a shift in its strategy for implementing environmental regulations on fossil fuel power plants, which are responsible for over 60% of the United States’ electricity production. The EPA revealed that while it will proceed with certain aspects of its proposed regulations introduced in May 2023, it will postpone the enactment of measures affecting existing natural gas facilities until later this year or the following year.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan explained that the agency is adopting a holistic approach in its forthcoming standards to reduce climate-related emissions from both existing coal-fired and new natural gas power plants. This comprehensive strategy aims to address a broader spectrum of emissions, including greenhouse gases, toxic substances, and other significant air pollutants.