NASEO Convenes Expert Energy, Regulatory, and Air Officials at Special CPP Workshop

During the 2016 NASEO Energy Policy Outlook Conference, NASEO hosted a special workshop with the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners and National Association of Clean Air Agencies to provide state officials, conference attendees, and invited guests the opportunity to hear directly from states about the challenges, concerns, and opportunities they see under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Power Plan (CPP).  The workshop's timing, which followed the Supreme Court's action to stay the rule, offered an excellent opportunity for states to be informed about implications of the court's action, and allowed interested states to ask questions of EPA and others on prudent next steps.  Each session was organized into a regional issue discussion and lead by an expert group of panelists who offered varying perspectives. 

The Keynote Address was delivered by EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy.  Noting a major transition taking place in the country’s energy sector marked by plummeting renewable energy costs and long term tax credit extensions, the Administrator reaffirmed her confidence in the CPP and EPA’s commitment to achieving a low-carbon future.

She noted that in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to stay the implementation of the CPP until pending litigation is concluded, the EPA will continue working with states on a voluntary, as-needed basis to offer support and assistance to those who chose to move forward with their planning efforts.  While several states intend to continue developing a compliance strategy, many have expressed concern over the impacts the Supreme Court’s decision will have on the EPA’s timeline.