Following clear Clean Air Act requirements and meeting a court deadline, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a federal plan that would cut emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from power plants and industrial sources, including kilns in cement and cement product manufacturing.
EPA said this action would help states fully resolve their Clean Air Act “good neighbor” obligations for the 2015 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), enhancing public health and environmental protections regionally and for local communities.
Beginning in 2023, it is proposing to include electric generating units in 25 states in the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR) NOX Ozone Season Group 3 Trading Program, which would be revised and strengthened for the 2015 ozone NAAQS. And, beginning in 2026, the agency is proposing emissions standards for certain industrial sources in 23 states that have a significant impact on downwind air quality.
EPA said the proposed limits reflect the installation and operation of proven, cost-effective emission controls, which in many cases have been implemented for years in numerous states. In 2026, the cost of achieving these reductions would be approximately $1.1 billion.
EPA will take comment on the proposed rule for 60 days after it is published in the Federal Register. The agency will also hold a virtual public hearing.
More information on the proposed “Good Neighbor” Plan can be found here.
