Trump Grants MATS Exemptions to 47 U.S. Coal Plants, Including Major Texas Facilities

Trump Administration Eases Emissions Rules for Coal Sector

President Donald Trump has granted a two-year exemption to 47 coal-fired power plants from the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS). This move aims to support the coal industry and delay the shutdown of older facilities. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published the exemption list as part of an ongoing regulatory review.

The exemption aligns with Trump’s broader effort to reverse environmental policies introduced during the Biden administration. MATS rules remain active, despite a Supreme Court decision in October that upheld their enforcement.

Texas Coal Plants Among Largest Beneficiaries

Several large mercury-emitting coal plants in Texas are on the exemption list. These include:

• Luminant’s Oak Grove Plant near Waco

• Martin Lake Coal Plant in East Texas

• San Miguel Lignite Plant south of San Antonio

• NRG Energy’s Limestone Plant east of Waco

• Coleto Creek Plant in Goliad County

• Parish Coal Plant in Fort Bend County

These plants rank among the highest mercury emitters in the United States. Under the exemption, they now have until 2027 to meet emission standards.

Industry vs. Environmental Groups

The decision drew sharp criticism from environmental organizations. Emma Pabst, regional manager of Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign, accused the administration of ignoring public health concerns in favor of corporate interests.

She emphasized that plants like Martin Lake and Oak Grove pose serious health risks to Texans. According to Pabst, delaying mercury reduction will increase pollution-related illnesses, particularly in vulnerable populations.

While affordable technologies like baghouses and carbon filters exist, many coal plants have delayed upgrades. These technologies can significantly reduce airborne toxins, including mercury and other harmful pollutants.

Long-Term Impact and Policy Shift

Coal companies were invited last month to apply for exemptions under an executive order supporting coal energy. The Trump administration framed this as a lifeline to the coal industry, which has faced economic pressure from cheaper and cleaner alternatives such as natural gas and renewables.

This move could also influence long-term regulatory trends in the U.S. energy market. It is expected to spark legal battles and further environmental activism.

At SuperMetalPrice, we continue to monitor and report on critical policy shifts affecting the energy and metals sectors. Stay updated on how these developments shape demand for thermal coal, metal-based filters, and environmental technologies.