Unattainable EPA standards threaten jobs
Thank you for your comprehensive article, “Consumers deal with skyrocketing electric bills,” which appeared in the March 1 edition. Many Pennsylvanians suddenly face significantly higher electric bills this winter, and as you pointed out, the Public Utility Commission has been inundated with complaints.
Pennsylvania is a leading energy-producing state, and coal is an integral part of our economy and our energy mix. Coal-fired electricity is more affordable and less variable in price than other energy sources, and emissions of sulfur, nitrogen and particulates have been greatly reduced. Modern coal-fired energy burns 90 percent cleaner than it did in previous decades.
Unfortunately, the new standards imposed by the EPA are unachievable with current technology. While one day we will have the technology to comply with these regulations, we’re not there yet.
These unattainable standards threaten to close hundreds of coal-fired plants, which would further drive up energy prices, as well as eliminate thousands of family-sustaining jobs.
We don’t have to choose between having a clean environment and preserving jobs. If federal regulators would work collaboratively with energy stakeholders, we could have both.
John Pippy
Monessen
John Pippy is the CEO of the Pennsylvania Coal Alliance.