The Facts on Mercury
On September 6th, the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) finally released a draft power plant mercury regulation. The regulation is set up in two phases, and applies to every coal-fired power plant in the state. The first phase of reductions, which DEC estimates at 50% from current levels, begins in 2010. By 2015 each unit at a coal-fired power plant must meet the final phase (approximately a 90% reduction). [See details of the proposed rule.]
DEC is accepting written comments on this draft rule from the public and interested parties until October 20th, and is holding three public hearings to collect verbal testimony. DEC will then review the public comments, potentially make changes, and then issue the final regulation. [Learn about ways to submit comments and hearing dates and locations.]
The big energy companies’ trade association, the Independent Power Producers of New York (IPPNY), has already come out in opposition to the proposal, calling for a much weaker plan. IPPNY has called on the state to allow for a cap-and-trade program (pop up def), despite the fact that New York and eight other states sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency because a cap-and-trade program for mercury is illegal. In addition, IPPNY called the timeline too aggressive, despite the fact that it is more lenient than many other states.
NYPIRG encourages New Yorkers to participate in all rule-making processes. In a democracy, it is vital that the public makes their voices heard in the review process. [Learn about ways to submit comments and hearing locations.]
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Background 
Impacts of Power Plant Pollution Efficiency and Conservation
Renewable Energy
Building New Power Plants Green Electricity
Federal Energy Issues Clean Air Enforcement Project support NYPIRG
