EPA rejects Colorado's haze plan over coal plant shutdowns.

The EPA partially disapproved Colorado's regional haze state implementation plan, saying the state did not properly address planned coal-plant retirements and related takings concerns; Colorado must submit a revised SIP to the agency.

EPA officials announced a partial disapproval of Colorado's regional haze state implementation plan, saying the state did not adequately address planned coal-plant retirements and related legal concerns. The agency highlighted information about Colorado Springs Utilities' Nixon Unit 1 and raised a question about whether a nonconsensual closure could amount to a taking of private property without compensation. Nixon Unit 1 is scheduled to close in 2029, and the EPA said the state must submit a revised SIP to resolve the issues the agency identified. Key points: - The EPA issued a partial disapproval of Colorado's regional haze plan and requested revisions. - The agency cited the state's handling of the planned closure of Nixon Unit 1 and raised a takings concern. - The Department of Energy has ordered Craig Station Unit 1 to remain operating through March 2026. - Colorado Governor Jared Polis criticized the DOE order, saying it will raise costs for ratepayers. Summary: The EPA's partial disapproval requires Colorado to submit a revised state implementation plan that addresses the agency's concerns about planned plant retirements and related legal questions. Timing and final outcomes are undetermined at this time.