NYT reports that US EPA plans on loosening mercury rules for coal-fired plants this week.

The 'New York Times' reported on Wednesday that the Trump administration will loosen restrictions this week on coal-burning power plants, allowing them more freedom to emit a variety of?hazardous pollutions, including mercury.

The paper reported that senior U.S. Environmental Protection Agency representatives are expected to make the announcement during a visit to Louisville, Kentucky on Friday.

The EPA exempted 47 coal-fired companies from the regulations that curb mercury and other air pollutants.

The EPA announced on Wednesday that the proposal was under interagency review. A final?rule would be published after the review has been completed?and is signed by Administrator Lee Zeldin.

The Times, citing internal agency documents, reported that the EPA argues that by lowering the mercury limits, a neurotoxin which can affect babies' brain development and is a powerful neurotoxin, it will reduce "unwarranted" costs for utilities who own and operate coal-fired plants in the United States.

According to The Times, the EPA estimates that the change could save companies up to $670 million from 2028 until 2037.

Donald Trump promised to 'fast-track energy infrastructure' in order to meet the rising demand for electricity from artificial intelligence and data centres.

He declared an "energy crisis" to justify his decision to keep aging coal-fired plants open that were set to close and to exempt them from air pollution regulations.

Washington has also?removed tax incentives for 'wind and solar projects, and slowed down?permits to generate renewable energy both on federal and private lands.

(source: Reuters)