EPA argues AI energy demand, grid needs justify power plant rule delay

The Environmental Protection Agency is citing several studies detailing projected energy demand from artificial intelligence growth and grid reliability needs to justify its proposal to extend deadlines associated with a Biden-era rule governing power plants’ effluent limitation guidelines, Inside EPA reported.

The agency on Sept. 29 issued a proposed rule and companion direct final rule extending -- in some cases by as much as six years -- compliance and other deadlines in the Biden-era rule setting stricter ELGs...