The EPA’s final rules for fossil fuel-fired power plants aim to reduce pollution and provide compliance timelines that enable power companies to plan in advance to meet electricity demand while protecting public health and the environment and advancing environmental justice.

As reported in May’s Compliance News, the four final rules announced in spring represent a significant step by the EPA to regulate the power sector as the industry invests in the transition to a clean energy economy. These new regulations aim to reduce carbon and metals emissions, as well as reduce pollutant discharges in power plant wastewaters, and enhance management of coal ash. The rules’ compliance timelines are set to allow for proactive planning.

The power sector is poised for a transformative shift. The long-term investment and planning processes within the power sector are strongly tied to this suite of new rules.