EPA releases 2023 power plant emissions data

Summary:

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released its annual data on 2023 emissions from power plants in the lower 48 states. The data shows significantly lower emissions in 2023, with a 18% decrease in coal generation and an 8% increase in natural gas generation from 2022. Emissions rates for sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides improved by 7% and 3%, respectively. The data also shows a 15% decrease in NOX emissions, a 24% decrease in SO2 emissions, a 7% decrease in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, and a 17% decrease in mercury emissions. These reductions reflect efforts to protect public health by reducing pollution and improving air quality. The EPA will continue to work with state, Tribal, and local leaders, as well as major players in the power sector, to build on this progress and achieve a clean energy future.