Michigan Internet Marketing Club: Clean Power Plan's benefits go beyond cleaner air

Clean Power Plan’s benefits go beyond cleaner air

The White House this week unveiled the first-ever national standards to address carbon pollution from power plants. The Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Power Plan, which would cut carbon pollution from power plants by 32 percent by the year 2030, aims to improve public health and promote greater energy efficiency.

Consumers Union, the policy and advocacy arm of Consumer Reports, a long-time supporter of efficient energy solutions, praised the plan when it was announced. Not only will it reduce the pollutants that cause dangerous, unhealthy soot and smog and focus on making energy production cleaner and more efficient, but it can also help cut consumers’ utility bills.

After years of gathering input and development, the final Clean Power Plan gives each state individual flexibility to implement the plan. In fact, many states are already well on their way in moving toward cleaner sources of energy. If states continue to look for the most cost-effective energy efficiency and renewable resources available, the benefits are expected to include:

Consumer savings

Save the average household nearly $85 a year on their energy bills in 2030.
Save consumers $155 billion from 2020 to 2030.

Climate and health benefits

Reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 32 percent from 2005 levels by 2030.
Prevent up to 3,600 premature deaths.
Prevent 90,000 asthma attacks in children.
Prevent 300,000 missed workdays and school days.

The Clean Power Plan has a long road ahead of it. Industry groups are expected to challenge it in courts and Congress. But we believe this plan could change the future of our electricity in the United States for the better if it’s given the chance to work.

Consumers Union will continue to push for more efficient, more affordable energy solutions that benefit consumers—just as we have for years. In addition, we will also work with our many partners to encourage states to make sure their plans are consumer friendly and cost effective. Check back with us for updates on how states are doing on their plans.

In the meantime, want to know how efficient your state’s power is? Take a look at this infographic to see where your power comes from.

This feature is part of a regular series by Consumers Union, the policy and advocacy arm of Consumer Reports. The nonprofit organization advocates for product safety, financial reform, safer food, health reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

Read past installments of our Policy & Action feature.