EPA Repeals Limits on Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Power Plants

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on September 14, 2026, that it is repealing rules that limited greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas-fired power plants. This repeal removes requirements that would have mandated certain power plants to significantly reduce their emissions, including the use of technologies such as carbon capture and storage. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin stated that this rollback will reduce regulatory burdens and provide companies with more certainty regarding their investments. Zeldin emphasized that the actions could result in savings amounting to trillions of dollars and allow companies to avoid lengthy regulatory disputes. Power plants are identified as the second largest source of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Vickie Patton, General Counsel for the Environmental Defense Fund, expressed concerns about the rollback, highlighting that it could increase harmful pollution from power plant smokestacks. Patton noted that the coal industry had previously described the Biden administration's regulations as overreach, while the Trump administration argues that the rules hinder affordable power generation. Patton further stated that the rollback could lead to more health issues, including increased asthma attacks and hospital visits, as well as higher insurance and healthcare costs. She emphasized the importance of maintaining limits on harmful pollution and the responsibility of the EPA to protect public health. The EPA's decision raises questions about the future ability of subsequent administrations to regulate greenhouse gas emissions effectively. Patton indicated that while states and local governments could take action to address pollution, comprehensive national emission limits are essential to protect the public from the serious impacts of climate change. The EPA has been invited to provide further commentary on this matter.