Twelve Indiana trade associations voice opposition to proposed EPA carbon regulation

Proposed mandates threaten Indiana’s economy and growth, will increase consumer electric rates

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INDIANAPOLIS – Twelve Indiana trade associations today in a letter to Administrator Gina McCarthy voiced opposition to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed standards for greenhouse gas emissions.

The organizations, while representing a broad group of Indiana electricity consumers, all oppose the implementation of the proposed regulations setting stringent limits on carbon emissions from future coal plants. The letter outlines the groups’ shared concern that the proposed regulations jeopardize the economic growth of Indiana, the Midwest and the nation.

Currently over 80 percent of all electricity produced in Indiana is generated from coal. In February a Department of Energy official testified that adding carbon capture and sequestration technology to new coal-fired power plants, the most commonly proposed solution by the EPA, will increase wholesale electricity rates 70-80 percent at those plants. The proposed regulations can only be accomplished with severe implications on the economy and the affordability of electricity for Indiana’s residential, commercial and industrial electricity consumers.

“A responsible energy policy framework, along with a focus on new, proven technology and energy conservation can mitigate the burden of rising costs,” said Rick Coons, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives.

“We are all urging the EPA to work with—not against—our organizations to find a practical, affordable and balanced way to regulate greenhouse gases.”

More than 29,000 Hoosiers are employed in a capacity related to producing energy from coal. The EPA’s proposed regulations could result in the loss of thousands of jobs, both in coal generation and from businesses attracted to Indiana because of its competitive electricity rates.

Indiana Electric Cooperatives, located in Indianapolis, represents 39 electric distribution cooperatives that serve 1.3 million Hoosiers in 89 of the state’s 92 counties. The cooperatives are collectively the second largest electricity provider in Indiana. For more information about the association visit indianaec.org.