Trump Exempts Coal Plants From Pollution Rule

Washington D.C. — The Trump administration has granted exemptions to nearly 70 coal-fired power plants, delaying enforcement of a Biden-era rule targeting mercury and other toxic air pollutants.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) quietly posted a list identifying 47 power providers, operating at least 66 coal plants, set to receive a two-year reprieve from regulations under the Clean Air Act. These regulations aimed to limit emissions of mercury, arsenic, and benzene.

This decision follows President Trump’s recent executive order aimed at bolstering the coal industry, which he sees as a critical, albeit polluting, energy source.

Among the beneficiaries is the Colstrip Generating Station in Montana, notorious for emitting high levels of toxic air pollutants. Other exempted facilities include North Dakota’s Coal Creek Station, a major mercury emitter, and the Oak Grove plant in Texas.

These plants are operated by major power companies, including Talen Energy, Dominion Energy, NRG Energy, Southern Co., and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).

The EPA defended the move, stating the exemptions “will bolster coal-fired electricity generation, ensuring that our nation’s grid is reliable, that electricity is affordable for the American people, and that EPA is helping to promote our nation’s energy security.”

Michelle Bloodworth, representing coal-fired plants, echoed this sentiment, asserting the importance of coal for a secure electricity supply.

Critics, including environmental groups like the Center for Biological Diversity, condemned the decision, calling it a “dereliction of duty” by Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. Maya Golden-Krasner, a senior attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity, stated that it prioritizes “polluter profits ahead of the wellbeing of Americans and the planet.” Environmental groups also denounce the administration’s new “polluters’ portal.”

The exemptions cover nine EPA rules, including limits on mercury, which can cause severe health issues, especially in children.

Last week, Trump issued executive orders allowing older coal plants to continue operating to meet rising power demand from data centers, AI, and electric vehicles. He also directed agencies to promote coal mining and leasing on federal lands.

Trump has consistently advocated for coal’s revival, emphasizing its role in powering the nation.