(AP) — Indiana Republicans are proposing an amendment that would temporarily ban the opening of new, large power plants.
The moratorium would prohibit state regulators from approving any new power plants, new power contracts or alterations in fuel sources until Jan. 1, 2021. Massive power plants would be barred from generating capacity greater than 250 megawatts.
The Indiana Business Journal reports that the House Utilities Committee approved the amendment Wednesday. Rep. Ed Soliday, the amendment’s sponsor, says Gov. Eric Holcomb backs the proposal.
Soliday says the state needs to determine whether shifting from coal to natural gas and renewables would throw the electric grid out of balance.
Critics say the proposal could disrupt the utility regulatory commission’s regular flow.
It can now be considered in the House and the Senate.