Federal Order Keeps Dead Coal Plant Alive

Washington’s only coal plant in Centralia is being forced to stay open again—this is the third time the federal government has issued emergency orders to keep it running past its retirement date, citing a critical electricity shortage fueled by demand from electric cars and AI. But here’s the twist: the plant hasn’t produced any power since December, despite these mandates. State officials are furious, calling the federal move an abuse of emergency powers meant for wars or natural disasters—and they’re already suing. The plant’s owner wants to pass millions in repair costs to customers, while environmental groups slam the orders as costly, polluting, and ultimately harmful to consumers. This isn’t an isolated case—it’s part of a nationwide trend of federal mandates keeping aging coal plants alive. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f692dc35a2ef70ef