Trump is making coal plants even dirtier as AI demands more energy

The Trump administration has rolled back critical pollution regulations, specifically the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), which were designed to limit toxic emissions from coal-fired power plants. This deregulation coincides with a rising demand for electricity driven by the expansion of AI data centers, leading to the revival of older, more polluting coal plants. The rollback is expected to save the coal industry approximately $78 million annually but poses significant health risks, particularly to children, due to increased mercury emissions linked to serious health issues such as birth defects and learning disabilities. Environmental advocates argue that these changes prioritize economic benefits for the coal industry over public health and environmental safety, as the U.S. shifts towards more energy-intensive technologies like AI and electric vehicles. The Tennessee Valley Authority has also decided to keep two coal plants operational to meet the growing energy demands, further extending the lifespan of aging, polluting infrastructure.

Why This Matters

This article highlights the significant health and environmental risks associated with the deregulation of coal plant emissions, exacerbated by the increasing energy demands of AI technologies. Understanding these risks is crucial as they illustrate the broader implications of AI deployment on public health and environmental policy. The decisions made by the Trump administration and the actions of utilities like the Tennessee Valley Authority reflect a troubling trend of prioritizing short-term economic gains over long-term societal well-being.