Air: proposed power plant air transport rule would affect utilities in 32 eastern states

EPA has issued a proposed rule that would replace the Clean Air Interstate Rule by amending 40 C.F.R. Parts 51, 52, 72, 78, and 97. 75 Fed. Reg. 45,209 (8/2/10). Known as the Air Transport Rule, the plan would limit interstate transport of emis-sions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) from fossil fuel-fired power plants begin-ning in 2012, with a second round of reductions in 2014. The rule would apply within 32 eastern U.S. states where emissions affect the ability of downwind states to attain and maintain compliance with the 1997 and 2006 fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) and the 1997 NAAQS for ozone. EPA has proposed limiting these emissions through Federal Implementation Plans that regulate electric generating units in the 32 states.  

EPA has scheduled three public meetings to discuss the proposed rule: August 18, 2010, in Chicago, August 26 in Philadelphia and September 1 in Atlanta. EPA will accept comments on the proposed rule until October 1, 2010.