EPA Announces Repeal of 2024 Coal Ash Rule and Modifications to Cleanup Requirements

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on Thursday that it will repeal a 2024 rule requiring companies to assess the condition of coal ash sites at inactive power plants. The agency also plans to modify other cleanup requirements that have been in place for more than a decade.

Coal ash is the waste produced from burning coal for electricity and contains metals and pollutants such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, and mercury. These substances can contaminate groundwater if coal ash is not stored properly. The 2024 rule, implemented during the Biden administration, applied to hundreds of sites.

The coal industry had described the rule as burdensome. EPA officials stated that the proposed changes would enhance transparency and promote resource recovery while protecting human health and the environment.

Environmental groups have stated that the coal ash rule changes could endanger drinking water supplies for millions of people. The announcement affects sites across the United States where coal ash is stored.

Environmental groups have stated that the coal ash rule changes could endanger drinking water supplies for millions of people. The announcement affects sites across the United States where coal ash is stored.

Stakeholders including industry representatives and environmental organizations are expected to provide input. The changes could influence ongoing management of coal ash waste at both active and inactive facilities.