By Scout Nelson
North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong welcomes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s new proposal to cancel two major federal rules that affect coal-fired power plants. These rules include the “Clean Power Plan 2.0” and the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS).
Governor Armstrong says these federal rules are too strict and hurt states like North Dakota, where coal power plays a key role in energy production. The proposal to repeal them follows his recent meeting with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin in Washington, D.C. They discussed the importance of keeping energy rules balanced and fair.
The Clean Power Plan 2.0, made under the previous administration, aimed to cut greenhouse gas emissions from existing coal plants by 90% by 2032. Governor Armstrong says this would force coal plants to shut down too early, risking power shortages and energy job losses.
North Dakota is also involved in lawsuits against both the Clean Power Plan 2.0 and the MATS rule. State officials argue these rules go beyond the EPA’s legal power and could harm the stability of the U.S. power grid.
The EPA hopes to support more flexible energy policy. Supporters of the repeal believe it will help maintain power generation, especially in states that rely on coal-fired plants for steady electricity and jobs.
This move is part of a larger national conversation about how to balance clean energy goals with energy security and economic needs. North Dakota’s support shows the concern some states have about keeping power systems reliable while planning.
Photo Credit: plant-pexels-sharath-g
Categories: North Dakota, Energy, General, Government & Policy, Rural Lifestyle