U.S. Supreme Court rejects calls to block EPA limits on power plant pollution

ATLANTA — The U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling today rejecting requests from several states and utilities seeking to prevent the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) rule to limit carbon pollution from fossil-fueled power plants from going into effect.

Today’s decision is particularly significant for Southern communities who live near some of the country’s highest CO2-emitting power plants, a brunt especially borne by communities of color and residents living in lower-wealth areas throughout the region disproportionately affected by air pollution and the impacts of climate change.

EPA’s standard calls for coal and gas plants to cut up to 617 million metric tons of total carbon dioxide through 2042 and builds on the success of the landmark Inflation Reduction Act, helping utilities shift from dirty fossil fuels to clean energy.

“We are encouraged by the Court’s decision to block attempts to undermine EPA’s limits on harmful air pollution and the benefits for public health, a shift toward cleaner energy options, and action to address the climate crisis that come with it,” said Keri Powell, Senior Attorney and Leader of SELC’s Air Program. “We are at a critical time to further strengthen common-sense standards that protect Southern communities, their health, and their quality of life.”