US EPA to undo carbon emission limits for power plants at G20 meeting

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced on Monday that it will repeal former President Joe Biden's limits on carbon emissions from coal- and gas-fired power plants, as part of President Donald Trump's efforts to reverse climate-focused regulations. The decision was made during a G20 energy ministers meeting in Houston, where global officials discussed energy security and regulatory efficiency.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin stated that the move would enable the U.S. to build new generating infrastructure to meet rising electricity demand. Environmental groups criticized the proposal, arguing that it would damage the environment and public health, as the electricity sector accounts for nearly a quarter of U.S. greenhouse gas pollution.

The administration previously proposed to eliminate rules written under Biden, which aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1 billion metric tons by 2047. The rule would have required power plants to install emission-capturing equipment, making renewable energy sources more appealing. Critics argue that the decision to disregard a significant portion of the country's climate pollution is irresponsible and could result in increased deaths and suffering from extreme weather events, similar to those witnessed this summer.

Under Secretary of Energy Kyle Haustveit noted that the new rules would revive coal-fired electricity, which has been decreasing due to cheaper natural gas and renewables. President Trump reportedly ended the "war on clean coal," emphasizing coal's reliability, affordability, and security.