At G20 summit, US unravels power plant climate rules

President Donald Trump's administration has removed limits on carbon emissions from power plants, including coal and gas-fired facilities. This move occurred during a G20 energy ministers' meeting in Houston and reverses regulations introduced by former President Joe Biden. The administration aims to halt future regulations on the power sector, which contributes to about a quarter of the nation's greenhouse gas emissions.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin stated that the Trump administration's actions aim to protect American energy and ensure affordable electricity. However, environmental groups have criticized the decision, calling it a "dark day" for policies that safeguard people from the effects of climate change. They argue that the administration is favoring fossil fuel industry profits over public health and well-being.

The rollback includes the repeal of 2024 Biden-era standards set under the Clean Air Act, which aimed to reduce carbon dioxide pollution from existing coal plants and new gas plants by up to 90% over time. The EPA deemed these standards unattainable and imposed too tight deadlines.

Additionally, the administration proposed a rule arguing that the EPA lacks the authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from the power sector. This proposed rule would save the government an estimated $370 million, according to the EPA. However, legal experts have expressed skepticism about these figures and plan to examine the final text of the rule.

The decision follows other recent rollbacks, such as the United States' withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement and the elimination of greenhouse gas standards for vehicle tailpipe emissions. Environmental groups vow to challenge the administration's actions in court, as they perceive the administration's stance on climate change as dismissive and uncaring.