What to Expect From Obama’s Big Climate Speech
There has been lots of speculation about what might be in the plan. It’s pretty clear that the focus will be executive and regulatory actions, since Congress is deadlocked on this issue (and most House Republicans still don’t even think it’s a real problem). Here are four things that are expected to be included:
Emission rules for existing power plants: The EPA has already issued (but not yet finalized) rules for new power plants, which will likely mean the end of conventional coal-fired power in the United States. But Obama is expected to unveil standards for the fleet of existing power plants, which account for 40 percent of all emissions in the US.
Tougher efficiency standards for homes and appliances: The Department of Energy tightened efficiency standards on some household appliances in 2009. But a number of new standards have been stuck at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in the White House awaiting approval.
More renewable energy development on public lands: