Environmental Groups Applaud Federal Regulations Mandating TVA to Remediate Old Coal Ash Sites

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued new rules to force power plants to clean up remaining deposits of coal ash, a toxic byproduct that can contaminate water sources with dangerous pollutants. The rules will require power companies to move the ash to dry, lined landfills, impacting Tennessee Valley Authority sites in several counties. Environmental groups view the rules as a necessary check on TVA’s operations, which have disposed of coal ash in unlined ponds and landfills for decades. TVA is currently reviewing the rules, and must provide a plan for remediating existing coal ash sites by the end of the year. The rules aim to close a loophole regarding the disposal of coal ash from defunct plants and unlined landfills. Concerns have been raised about where the coal ash will be stored, as past efforts to transport it to other communities have caused health and environmental issues. Safety measures for workers handling the coal waste are also a concern. The rules are seen as crucial for protecting communities and water sources from the harmful effects of coal ash pollution.

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