Implications of Regulatory Changes Regarding Coal-Fired Generation
Any drastic policy moves to change the role of coal in generation, will have severe implications on the global cost competitiveness of American industry. The critical role of coal in the U.S. is unique in the industrialized world
The Bush Energy Policy recognized the key role of coal in the U.S. energy matrix - more specifically that:
- Gas infrastructure would be overwhelmed by any sharp drop in coal use
- Coal-fired power provides the U.S. a significant economic advantage, and the years of proven coal reserves - is key to our future energy security
- Supporting the original Kyoto agreement would have resulted in serious negative economic implications to the U.S.