Market Environment

Fossil fuel combustion is still the United States' single largest source of industrial air pollution. The toxins carried within these emissions are particularly harmful to human health and create environmental problems such as smog and acid rain.

Facilities have done much over the last 20 years to improve their environmental performance but still face complex challenges as they prepare to meet the pollution reduction targets introduced in the EPA's Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). Cost effective investment in emission control technology will also allow industry to enjoy the economic benefits available from emissions trading programs in various jurisdictions around the globe.

From the perspective of the utility provider, the key to supplying electricity at a competitive rate, while still meeting environmental targets will depend on the efficiency of the emission control technology.