John,
If you only have 30 seconds, read this:
In 2018, a thermal power plant in New York ran for only 50 hours, yet released over 19,000 tons of CO2. This wasn’t just anywhere in New York — this was Brooklyn, exposing an entire borough to dangerous emissions. And it’s just one of thousands of similar examples across the country — you too could unknowingly be breathing in literally tons of toxic air pollutants from these inefficient plants.
What are these toxic energy facilities, and how can one piece of legislation help shut down nearly 20% of them, unlocking cleaner air for millions? Explore the latest data revealing how the Energy Permitting Reform Act can benefit communities disproportionately exposed to environmental hazards — our environmental justice communities.
Dive into the Data — See the Potential to Clean Up Communities with One Bill
If you have 2 minutes to spare, read this:
A thermal “peaker” power plant is an energy facility activated only when demand surpasses what regular plants can handle, usually during peak energy times. This includes emergencies like generator failures or during extreme heat waves when the energy demand spikes. Though rarely used, peaker plants are among the most inefficient, costly, and polluting energy sources in operation. Most operate less than 300 hours per year yet cost billions to run, all while releasing thousands of harmful toxins.
According to a 2024 Government Accountability Office report, peaker plants are disproportionately located in historically underserved areas, often in Black, Brown, and low-income neighborhoods. The billions of dollars spent to operate these facilities — reflected in our high energy bills — don’t even include the escalating health costs due to respiratory diseases, hospitalizations, and increased mortality rates in the communities least prepared to bear them.
We need a solution now, as this problem will only worsen with our growing energy demands.
Fortunately, there’s a better way forward: The Energy Permitting Reform Act (EPRA). By enabling essential upgrades to our energy system and expanding access to renewable sources, it could reduce reliance on these harmful plants by up to 20%. This means cleaner air, more resilient communities, and billions saved in utility and healthcare costs.
Want the full story? Dive into our one-pager on how one bill can bring transformative benefits to populations burdened by pollution and poverty.
Read Now: Transmission Expansion Benefits; Environmental Justice Communities
Together, let’s create a path toward cleaner air and healthier communities — starting now.
In solidarity,
— Dream.Org
P.S. - Ready to take action and help us get EPRA passed before the end of the year? Send a letter to your Senator and urge them to support energy reform now!
