LCRA Mum on How New Regs Might Affect FPP

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced on April 25 a suite of new regulations affecting coal-fired power plants.

It is currently unclear how these new regulations will affect the Fayette Power Project (FPP).

The new rules include increased controls on carbon emissions, tightened restrictions on mercury and other heavy metal emissions, new standards for wastewater discharges, and safe management of coal ash waste that was previously unregulated at the federal level.

“Today, EPA is proud to make good on the Biden-Harris Administration’s vision to tackle climate change and to protect all communities from pollution in our air, water, and in our neighborhoods,” said EPAAdministrator Michael S. Regan. “By developing these standards in a clear, transparent, inclusive manner, EPA is cutting pollution while ensuring that power companies can make smart investments and continue to deliver reliable electricity for all Americans.”

The Record asked the Lower Colorado River Authority, which operates FPP and co-owns the plant with Austin Energy, how the new regulations might affect their operations.

A spokesperson for LCRA said they are evaluating the new rules “and have nothing more to add at this time.”