EPA Hikes Fines for Polluting Power Plants
Published Date: 11/20/2025
Notice
Summary
Power plants that release too much sulfur dioxide or nitrogen oxides will pay higher penalties in 2025 and 2026 because of inflation adjustments. The penalty per extra ton jumps to about $5,050 in 2025 and $5,200 in 2026, making it more expensive to pollute. These changes help keep the Acid Rain Program fair and effective by updating costs based on the latest inflation numbers.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Higher Acid Rain Penalties per Ton
If a fossil fuel-fired power plant emits more sulfur dioxide (SO2) or nitrogen oxides (NOX) than allowed, it must pay an automatic excess-emissions penalty. The penalty is about $5,053 per excess ton for compliance year 2025 and about $5,200 per excess ton for compliance year 2026.
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