Rep. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) recently said that carbon dioxide limits for power plants published by the EPA on Wednesday contradict “all of the above” energy policy strategies and will drive up energy costs.
The EPA’s greenhouse gas emission regulations set separate carbon dioxide emissions standards for new coal and natural gas power plants.
“The Obama Administration and his EPA have decided to move full speed ahead to block construction of new coal-fired power plants across the country,” Capito said. “Our country depends on affordable, reliable energy to power the economy and heat our homes, and the bitter cold this week serves as a reminder of how much we need affordable American energy.”
Capito introduced the Ensure Reliable, Affordable American Energy Act in September. The measure would block EPA carbon dioxide regulations for new and existing power plants until foreign countries take similar steps to reduce green house gas that lead to measurable results.
“Instead of welcoming coal into an all-of-the-above energy strategy, the Obama Administration is embracing regulations that will devastate West Virginia’s economy, energy prices and local tax revenues,” Capito said. “I have introduced legislation that would prevent the EPA from implementing this new rule, and I will continue to fight the Administration and defend West Virginia every day as a member of Congress.”