[20141103]IN10172_EPA的清洁能源计划提案：排放率目标是否前置？.pdf

CRS InsightsEPAs Clean Power Plan Proposal: Are the Emission Rate Targets Front-Loaded?Jonathan L. Ramseur, Specialist in Environmental Policy (jramseurcrs.loc.gov, 7-7919)November 3, 2014 (IN10172)On June 18, 2014, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed regulations (the Clean PowerPlan) addressing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from existing fossil fuel-fired electric generatingunits. Carbon dioxide is the primary human-related greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change,and these electric generating units, as a group, account for the largest source of CO2 emissions in theUnited States.The proposal would establish state-specific CO2 emission rate targets measured in pounds of CO2emissions per megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity generation. The targets include both a 2030 goaland an interim goal to be achieved on average between 2020 and 2029. States would prepare andsubmit to EPA implementation plans describing the state-specific activities that would achieve theemission rate targets.Assuming the proposal becomes a final rule in June 2015, states would then have until June 30, 2016,to submit their implementation plans. However, states could request an additional y