Environmentalists push back on EPA plan to extend coal plant closings

Environmental groups opposed an EPA proposal to extend closure deadlines to October 2031 for 11 coal plants, including three in Illinois and one in northwest Indiana. The EPA says the extension addresses grid reliability and has extended the public comment period to Feb. 6 before finalizing the rule.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed extending closure deadlines to October 2031 for 11 coal-fired power plants. The plan would allow three Illinois sites and one in northwest Indiana to operate longer than previously scheduled. EPA officials have said the extension is intended to address regional grid reliability concerns. Environmental groups and local advocates raised objections during a public hearing, citing ongoing issues at coal ash disposal sites. Main facts: - The EPA proposal would move closure deadlines for 11 coal plants to October 2031, including Baldwin, Kincaid and Newton in Illinois and Schahfer in northwest Indiana. - EPA officials cited grid reliability concerns and referenced Department of Energy warnings about potential regional power issues if earlier closures proceed. - Environmental groups and local advocates said the sites include unlined, leaking coal ash impoundments and argued the extension would delay closures and cleanup. - The EPA extended the public comment period; comments are open through Feb. 6 before the agency finalizes the rule. Summary: The proposal has prompted public opposition that emphasizes risks tied to continued operation and to unlined coal ash sites, while the agency highlights grid reliability as its rationale. The rule remains under review with a public comment period open through Feb. 6 before the EPA makes a final decision.