Clean Power Plants

Sensible economic development is based on long-term planning, and taking the High Road means setting a sustainable course.  By thinking about the future, we can create business models that will survive the next decade and the next generation. 

When the Clean Air Act was passed in 1977, it imposed strict pollution control standards on new power plants but allowed older plants, such as those in the Midwest, to delay adding expensive anti-pollution systems until they were renovated or expanded. The intent of the law was to ultimately phase out or renovate old plants.

In September of 2003, the EPA exempted older plants from meeting Clean Air standards if the upgrades they make to essential equipment don't cost more than one-fifth of the price of replacing it. Until now, the act has required the plants to add pollution controls whenever they've made major renovations.

New Hampshire, New York and Connecticut have announced their intent to sue the agency. The states will file the suit in federal appellate court as soon as the new rule is published, and expect more states to come on board.

The State Environmental Resource Center mapped out the high road on eliminating dirty coal burning power plants, and the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators also dedicated a spot to clean air in the states.  We'd like to thank these two groups for being environmental trailblazers on the high road, and encourage you to contact these groups with questions.

If we want clean energy, it's clear the battle must be fought and won in the states.  There is a choice.   Start the Journey.

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