Lignite Energy Council Denounces EPA's Assault on North Dakota's Coal Industry
"These regulations mandate either fuel switching or the implementation of unproven technology, jeopardizing the stability of the national power supply, and putting over 12,000 jobs in the lignite indu
The Lignite Energy Council strongly condemns the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) latest regulatory onslaught targeting North Dakota's fossil fuel industry.
This announcement of final rules represents a reckless endeavor to expedite the closure of the nation's coal fleet by 2032 and puts the entire electricity grid at risk for brownouts and blackouts.
"Electricity demand is surging, and the EPA's agenda will severely impact our ability to rely on electricity 24/7," said Jason Bohrer, President and CEO of the Lignite Energy Council. "These regulations mandate either fuel switching or the implementation of unproven technology, jeopardizing the stability of the national power supply, and putting over 12,000 jobs in the lignite industry at risk."
Of particular concern is the MATS rule which all but eliminates using lignite coal from North Dakota. "Ironically, the new mercury limit has no measurable health benefits and runs contrary to a plain reading of the risk calculation. Once again, the agency has far exceeded its authority set by Congress," Bohrer explained.
Furthermore, these rules impose excessive costs on coal-fired units with minimal health or environmental benefits. "It's irrational to levy billions of dollars in additional costs for minimal gains," added Bohrer. "The introduction of multiple simultaneous regulations represents a calculated move to create regulatory uncertainty, severely undermining power companies' operations and their ability to reliably serve their customers. Additionally, the EPA has not substantiated any health benefits from these regulations, which do not justify the significant economic and infrastructural costs North Dakota's lignite facilities would incur."
The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (NDDEQ) has rightly criticized the EPA for its failure to consult state agencies during the rule drafting process, underscoring federal overreach, sidelining local stakeholders, and ignoring scientific expertise.
These regulations threaten the livelihoods of thousands of North Dakotans and the state's economy, which relies heavily on the lignite industry. With an annual contribution of over $5.75 billion, more than $100 million in state and local taxes, and support for over 12,000 jobs, the lignite industry is a cornerstone of North Dakota's economy.
About the Lignite Energy Council: The Lignite Energy Council is a regional trade association representing North Dakota lignite producers, electric utilities, and over 200 businesses providing goods and services to mining and plant operations.
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