Utility companies, including Duke Energy, recently urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to quickly roll back two significant regulations introduced by the Biden administration. These rules aim to cut greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and address the disposal of coal ash.
The letter, sent just after Lee Zeldin was confirmed to lead the EPA, highlights concerns from these companies, which believe the regulations could harm the reliability of the power grid and raise electricity costs. The rules would require coal plants to either capture emissions or shut down by 2032. New natural gas plants would need to cut their carbon dioxide output by 90%. The companies argue that the necessary carbon capture technology is too expensive and untested, making compliance unrealistic by the deadline.
Duke Energy generates most of its electricity in Florida using natural gas, with coal as its second source. The company has about two million customers in the state. The second regulation targets coal ash, a by-product of burning coal, which can contain toxic substances like arsenic. The new rule aims to close a loophole that previously allowed some power plants to avoid addressing coal ash waste.
Utilities argue that the expansion of this rule is unjustified and burdensome, increasing costs for both power companies and consumers without clear benefits to public health or the environment. Duke Energy’s representatives declined to discuss the letter further, stating it speaks for itself.
Environmental advocates reacted strongly, condemning the utilities’ request. Susannah Randolph, the director of the Sierra Club’s Florida chapter, called the letter “repugnant.” She criticized these companies for prioritizing profits over customer health and safety. Randolph urged them to invest in reliable renewable energy instead, which can reduce emissions and improve public health.
Experts in environmental law also caution that rolling back these regulations won’t be straightforward. Lisa Evans from Earthjustice pointed out that the power companies have already faced legal challenges regarding coal ash contamination. She noted that many coal plants have been found to pollute groundwater with dangerous chemicals, which means any new regulations put forth must address these existing issues.
As for the EPA’s stance, a spokesperson indicated that the agency is currently reviewing the companies’ letter. They emphasized that President Trump intends to balance environmental conservation with economic growth. However, it remains to be seen how the agency will respond to the utility companies’ demands in light of ongoing environmental concerns.
