Idaho faces 33% carbon reduction

The Obama Administration has proposed cutting power plant carbon emissions by 30 percent below 2005 levels, an amount equal to the emissions from powering half of U.S. homes today.

The reductions will require Idaho utilities to cut carbon emissions by 33 percent based on carbon emissions and the plants used to meet its power needs. But because Idaho already has added significant wind power, approved energy efficiency programs between 2008 and 2011, carbon emissions from the power sector decreased over 40 percent in the state, the White House said.

The plan also includes interim goals that could force Idaho Power to accelerate efforts to shift its generation from coal to other alternatives: natural gas, renewable energy and other efforts at energy efficiency. More here. Idaho Statesman

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