Early NC emission controls save millions
North Carolina finds itself well positioned to meet future Environmental Protection Agency regulations since the state’s Clean Smokestacks Act has already addressed certain emissions.
A study by Duke University found that the sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrous oxide (NO2) reductions required by the Clean Smokestacks Act have given NC a head start on meeting two potential EPA rules on mercury and interstate air pollution.
States that have not been accounting for their emissions will likely have to retrofit their operations to comply with the new EPA guidelines.
The study, conducted by Duke’s Nicholas School for Environmental Policy Solutions, showed that while other states rush to get their facilities up to code, NC will save nearly $600 million by preemptively upgrading its facilities.
Out-of-state power plants have a shorter window to adjust and electricity rates for consumers could increase.
(8/17/12)