Pennsylvania DEP Announces Listening Session on EPA Proposal to Lower Emissions from Existing Power Plants

HARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 12, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will hold a listening session to obtain public input on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) proposed carbon pollution emission guidelines for existing fossil fuel-fired power plants and the proposed standards for modified and reconstructed units on Thursday, Sept. 25.

The listening session is being held prior to the finalization of the department's official comments to EPA on the proposed guidelines and standards. The session will begin at 9 a.m. in the Honors Suite (First Floor), 333 Market Street, Harrisburg.

In April, Pennsylvania submitted a white paper to EPA outlining a plan that would achieve lower carbon emissions from existing power plants by removing obstacles and encouraging efficiency projects. At the heart of Pennsylvania's plan is the preservation of states' authority and discretion in the development and implementation of emissions control programs.

On July 31, DEP Deputy Secretary Vince Brisini testified at EPA's public hearing in Pittsburgh, explaining that Pennsylvania supports carbon reductions, but believes that reductions must be accomplished in a fashion that will result in cleaner air, lower energy prices and more jobs.

Registered speakers for the Sept. 25 listening session will be allotted no more than 15 minutes to present their position and comments. The department may ask the speaker clarifying questions, if necessary. Each speaker should provide three copies of their written comments. If time allows, unregistered speakers will be able to provide comment after all registered speakers have testified.

A notice of the listening session will be published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin on Saturday, Sept. 20. To register, contact Tammey Adams at 717-772-2725 or [email protected] no later than Sept. 22.

For more information, visit www.dep.state.pa.us, click "Air," and then "Bureau of Air Quality."

Media contact: Morgan Wagner, 717-787-1323

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection