EPA Plans Repeal of Power-Plant Carbon Standards

The Environmental Protection Agency is expected to repeal Biden-era carbon pollution standards for coal- and gas-fired power plants, potentially alongside a proposal to withdraw the agency’s finding that greenhouse-gas emissions from power plants endanger public health. The rollback, anticipated around the G20 energy ministers’ meeting in Houston, is part of current President Donald Trump’s effort to reduce regulations and expand domestic energy production. The rules targeted emissions of carbon dioxide, mercury and other pollutants, and their repeal would reverse measures projected to significantly reduce power-sector greenhouse-gas emissions. Former EPA officials and environmental advocates also warn that the administration is weakening pollution safeguards and public oversight to speed construction of AI data centers and the power infrastructure serving them. Proposed changes could ease permitting, allow some construction before permits are finalized and reduce public notice and comment requirements, raising concerns about health risks, utility costs and community displacement, particularly in rural areas.