The 411 on 111(d) regulations.

• Author: Durkay, Jocelyn
• Position: TRENDS

Fossil fuel power plants are the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the nation, producing roughly one-third of the country's emissions, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Using section 111 (d) of the Clean Air Act, EPA has proposed regulations to collectively reduce power plant emissions to 30 percent below 2005 levels by 2030. Final regulations are expected this summer.

Reduction targets, however, vary widely from state to state--from 10.6 percent in North Dakota to 71.6 percent in Washington. Vermont and Washington, D.C., are excluded from the rule, as neither generates fossil-fuel energy within its borders. New power plants will have to meet strict emissions requirements.

State responses have varied as widely as emission reduction targets, from support to concern to rejection to 15 states filing suit against EPA.

Proponents contend the reductions are essential to improving the country's air quality and protecting public health and the environment. Opponents disagree, voicing concerns over the possible threat the regulations might pose to the reliability of the electric grid. They also question the legality of EPA's authority to set the targets.

EPA's proposed regulations rest on four "building blocks" the agency has identified to reduce carbon dioxide...