In his inaugural speech President Obama promised action to address climate change. Monday he announced the nominations of two individuals who could take the lead in doing that. These are Gina McCarthy, named to direct the EPA, and Ernest Moniz to be Secretary of Energy. The two nominations require Senate confirmation.
Both agencies offer opportunities to reduce carbon emissions by means of existing authority. With Republican opposition in the House, this may be the Administration's best chance to do something. Later this year, the EPA is expected to propose emissions standards for new power plants. It could then give its attention to the much more difficult and politically sensitive matter of standards for existing plants. At Energy, the Secretary is expected to issue new efficiency standards for household appliances. More problematic may be his proposals for new nuclear power plants and support for gas production through hydraulic fracturing ("fracking").
Both nominees seem to be highly capable individuals and experienced in administrative politics. And I wish them well. But I'm not expecting really dramatic action. The President himself sent a mixed message at the announcement of the nominations when he talked about "making sure that we're investing in American energy, that we're doing everything we can to combat the threat of climate change, that we're going to be creating jobs and economic opportunity . . ." As the New York Times pointed out, dealing with climate change and promoting domestic energy independence are not necessarily complementary goals. Plus, whatever Ms. McCarthy and Mr. Moniz propose, even under statutory authorities, there's the matter of the House Republicans who will look for every means to oppose and block. Maybe the Democrats will manage to retake the House next year. But even if they do, I'd be surprised if four years from now we'll be able to say that the U.S. had finally adopted serious policies to cut carbon emissions. I only hope I'm wrong.
No comments:
Post a Comment