Understanding the President’s Clean Power Plan — and Reactions To It

Last week, President Obama, flanked by EPA Chief Gina McCarthy, presented a revised “Clean Power Plan” setting standards to reduce carbon dioxide emissions 32 percent from 2005 levels by 2030. That’s 9 percent more than the administration’s previously proposed rules. The plan requires states to submit plans to meet that goal.

Reaction here in Texas and across the nation has been swift — and not altogether unsurprising. Industry groups assail the plan, as do a number of states who feel they’re being unfairly targeted. Texas would need to reduce emissions by 18 percent; that’s a small task compared to many coal producing states, like Wyoming (33%) and West Virginia (28%), who vow to challenge the new rules.

What does this carbon pollution reduction plan mean for Texas? What impact might it have on climate change in the United States and around the world? What steps could be taken here to seek to meet the goal?

We learn more about the President’s Clean Power Plan and the reaction to it. We welcome your thoughts for Dave Fehling, News 88.7’s energy and environment reporter.