Energy Dept. finds stricter EPA rules won’t threaten electric reliability (FU Rick Perry)

[jpak]

http://fuelfix.com/blog/2011/12/02/energy-dept-study-finds-stricter-versions-of-epa-rules-wont-threaten-electric-reliability/

A Department of Energy analysis of how the electricity system would respond to far more stringent versions of future air-emission regulations found the rules won’t threaten electric reliability.

The analysis of the finalized Cross-State Air Pollution Rule and the proposed Mercury and Air Toxics Standards for power plants confirms what the Environmental Protection Agency has said all along about its rules, said Gina McCarthy, EPA assistant administrator for air and radiation.

The study “adds to our confidence that these rules and standards are affordable, technologically achievable and can be implemented while maintaining a robust and reliable electric system,” McCarthy told reporters today, noting that the analysis assumed rules that are far stricter than EPA is actually writing.

EPA’s rules have come under attack from Republicans in Congress and some states and utilities over concerns they will lead to power plant shutdowns and retirements that could threaten electric reliability.

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