(WHTM) \u2014 Two coal-fired power plants slated to close in 2028 can now remain open for several more years after the operator reached an agreement with the state.<\/p>\n
Keystone-Conemaugh Projects, LLC, planned to close the Conemaugh Station in Indiana County and Keystone Station in Armstrong County after determining energy demands weren\u2019t high enough for it to invest millions to meet federal requirements for water pollution. The requirements set strict limits for bottom ash transport water and flue gas desulfurization wastewater by December 31, 2025, or cease operation.<\/p>\n
Close<\/a><\/p>\n Thanks for signing up!<\/p>\n Watch for us in your inbox.<\/p>\n Subscribe Now<\/p>\n Wastewater discharges from coal-fired power plants into bodies of water include toxic pollutants and heavy metals, such as arsenic, mercury and lead.<\/p>\n However, a rising demand for energy as data centers set up shop across Pennsylvania changed the outlook of the energy market, and Keystone-Conemaugh changed its plan to close the plants. But that meant that unless an exception was made, it would operate without meeting the federal requirements.<\/p>\n As part of a settlement with the state, the plants can continue operating through 2032 as long as the facilities:<\/p>\n Submit applications for permits and authorizations to make system upgrades within 60 days of the consent decree<\/p>\n Begin construction within 90 days of receiving all permits and authorizations<\/p>\n Complete construction within 180 days of starting construction<\/p>\n Begin operating the upgraded systems within 60 days of construction completion<\/p>\n