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WATER AND POWER

January 29, 2013

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The Honorable Gina McCarthy 

Administrator 

United States Environmental Protection Agency 

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW 

Washington, DC 20460 

RE:	Addressing Carbon Emissions from Our Nation's Power Plants 

Dear Administrator McCarthy: 

I write to you regarding the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) forthcoming regulations on 

greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from existing power plants. I appreciate EPA's efforts to reach out to 

the public to solicit input on the rules, and I encourage your agency to continue to hear from 

stakeholders and consumers as part of the public discussion on our nation's environmental policies. 

I strongly commend the Obama Administration's efforts to increase the efficiency of our energy usage, 

develop alternative sources of energy and ensure a stronger, more vibrant energy future. The 

administration's pursuit of improved CAFE standards, expanded renewable energy development on 

public lands and waters, and support for lower carbon natural gas development, among several other 

pragmatic and cost-effective measures, have played a key role in reducing our nation's GHG footprint. At 

the same time the United States is becoming the world's largest energy producer, our nation is leading 

the world in carbon reductions, and we are on track to meet the aggressive goals that President Obama 

pledged at the Copenhagen Accords four years ago. 

As a member of U.S. House Natural Resources Committee during a transformative period in our nation's 

energy history, I am hopeful our nation will remain the global leader in innovation and energy 

production. My background as an engineer and former business owner has taught me that most 

problems can be addressed rationally and responsibly so long as everyone has a good understanding of 

the facts. 

When it comes to reducing carbon emissions, the United States has several options to evaluate. For 

decisions as impactful as the pending rules on existing power plants, the balance between these 

variables can have ramifications for our environment and the economy. The EPA must have a full 

understanding of the challenges and opportunities prior to finalizing future rules, and I ask the EPA to 

focus on how the carbon pollution rules could affect consumers. 

For many consumers, particularly our most vulnerable populations, rising energy costs will present some 

difficult choices. Low-income households, small businesses, seniors and others on a fixed income already 

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struggle to pay the utilities bill. Environmental protection does have a cost, but the federal government 

must do all it can to anticipate and mitigate spikes in energy costs. 

I have full faith that the Administration can reach a pragmatic solution on carbon emissions that will 

promote economic development and environmental protection now and for future generations. I look 

forward to being an honest and active partner in these ongoing discussions. 

Sincerely, 

TONY C DENAS 

Memb r of Congress