The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative states support the EPA’s Clean Power Plan, but say the proposed carbon pollution standards for existing power plants could achieve even greater emissions reductions, according to comments submitted last week.
The nine Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic have already achieved a 40 percent reduction in regional CO2 emissions from the electricity sector, compared to 2005 levels. The Clean Power Plan requires these states to reduce their emissions by a combined 38 percent.
The states say this shows that greater emissions cuts are possible, especially in states that haven’t yet implemented programs to reduce carbon pollution.
Almost 18 million carbon allowances sold for $4.88 at the RGGI’s most recent carbon auction on Sept. 3.
