On today [Nov 25, 2025], EPA announced a proposal to extend the compliance deadline for coal combustion residuals (CCR) surface impoundments continuing to operate under the alternative closure provisions in 40 C.F.R. 257.103(f)(2). Specifically, EPA is proposing to extend the deadline for owners and operators both to cease operation of their coal-fired boilers and complete closure of their CCR surface impoundments larger than 40 acres by three years, from October 17, 2028, to October 17, 2031. This change responds to recent findings from the Department of Energy which indicate that retirement of coal-fired power generating assets could cause electric grid reliability risks and aligns with Executive Order 14262, which emphasizes the importance of ensuring grid reliability and security to support economic growth and national security.
If the proposal is finalized, the new deadline for any affected facility’s coal-fired boiler(s) to cease operation and CCR surface impoundment(s) to complete closure would become October 17, 2031. For more information, visit our webpage.
Please share this information with your Tribal contacts. If you have any questions, please reach out to Frank Behan at behan.frank@epa.gov or (202) 566-0531. Thanks, and enjoy the rest of your day!
Denise
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Denise R. Roy
U.S. EPA
Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery (ORCR)
Materials Management Branch
Tribal Team Co-Lead
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