Trump admin’s coal investments assist plants with repeated violations The Trump administration is providing millions in federal grants to extend the operational life of at least three coal plants that have repeatedly violated environmental regulations, including the Cumberland Fossil Plant, Grand River Energy Center, and Roxboro Steam Electric Plant. Critics argue this move is a step backward from clean energy investments and will worsen climate change and public health impacts, while the administration states the funding is crucial for grid resilience and supporting the coal industry.

• The Trump administration is providing federal grants to extend the lifespan of older coal plants.
• At least three of these plants, Cumberland, Grand River, and Roxboro, have a history of environmental violations under the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act.
• Environmental advocates criticize the funding, stating it undermines clean energy goals and will worsen climate change and health issues.
• The administration argues the investments are necessary for grid reliability, strengthening the coal supply chain, and supporting critical infrastructure.
• Past environmental issues at these plants include excess wastewater pollutants, failure to install pollution controls, and coal ash contamination. Continue reading https://arstechnica.com/science/2026/06/trump-admins-coal-investments-assist-plants-with-repeated-violations/