Time to take action: EPA proposes rule with costly implications

EPA is overstepping the authority given states and the agency needs to hear from consumers it's not right.

Basin Electric Power Cooperative - September 23, 2011

In early September, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) filed its proposed rule to disapprove part of North Dakota’s State Implementation Plan for regional haze. The rule was published Sept. 21.

“EPA’s action will have direct implications for Basin Electric, its members and consumers all over the region,” said Ron Harper, Basin Electric CEO and general manager. EPA is proposing a Federal Implementation Plan that would cost the cooperative, other energy producers in the state, and ultimately consumers hundreds of millions of dollars over and above what has already been invested for environmental controls, and for no visible benefit. In fact, it could potentially hinder the operation of North Dakota’s energy resources. To learn more, read http://bit.ly/EPAOverstepping.

“We now have less than 60 days to let the EPA know that pushing costly regulations will only make our nation’s economic situation worse,” Harper said.

Businesses and consumers can submit comments on EPA’s proposed rule. Go to http://stopepand.com/Take_Action/ and send a message to EPA disapproving of its intentions. Additionally, in the coming weeks, Basin Electric, through Partners for Affordable Energy, will be engaging in a print, radio, TV and digital advertising campaign highlighting this issue.

“When it comes to implementing the regional haze rules, EPA is ignoring states’ authority, local knowledge and judgment about what is best for consumers,” Harper said.

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