A major step toward limiting greenhouse gas emissions would be denying permission for the Mountain Valley and Atlantic Coast pipelines. According to Oil Change International, the full lifecycle emissions of building and operating the proposed MVP would be the carbon equivalent of greater than 89 million metric tons of carbon doxide -- as much as adding an additional 26 coal power plant or 19 million additional passenger vehicles. ACP, if built, would add an additional 69 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent, like adding 20 coal plants or 14 million passenger vehicles.

I am glad to see Virginia taking steps to cut carbon pollution to combat climate change, despite Trump’s continued attacks on environmental protections. As a Virginian, I am eager to see the state produce a strong, equitable, and scientifically sound plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

I request that DEQ use its authority to:
• Create a rule based on the strongest available science that significantly reduces carbon pollution from Virginia’s power plants.
• Ensure that Virginia residents benefit from any profits from carbon standards, especially front-line communities.
• Address the disproportionate environmental burdens experienced by vulnerable communities.
• Grow the clean energy economy by maximizing investments in zero-carbon wind, solar, and energy efficiency.
• Provide accessible public hearing opportunities in the evenings in multiple parts of the state to ensure all concerned Virginians can fully participate in the rule-making process.

(Re: 9VAC5-140, Regulation for Emissions Trading Programs)
(NOIRA Stage: Reduce and Cap Carbon Dioxide from Fossil Fuel Fired Electric Power Generating Facilities (Rev. C17))