With coal-fired power plants producing almost half of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions, a recent decision to deny the permit for two new coal-based facilities in Kansas is sparking debate over greenhouse gases and renewable energy.

The Decision

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Secretary Roderick Bremby denied Sunflower Electric Corporation’s plans to build two new coal-fired plants in western Kansas because of concerns over climate change and the environment. While other states have rejected building similar plants, Bremby’s decision marks the first time a federal government agency denied a plant’s permit on the grounds of its carbon dioxide emissions. The state of Kansas does not currently regulate CO2 discharges.

The Controversy

The KDHE has plenty of supporters all over the state like Governor Kathleen Sebelius, although her support is Those who back the decision stress the need for expanding the state’s renewable power sources, like wind energy.

Kansas lawmakers who oppose KDHE’s decision say allowing the $3.6 billion project In fact, legislators will meet next month to discuss the decision and Sunflower lawyers will attempt to challenge—if not overturn—it.

Worldwatch and Wind Energy

On a related side note, the Worldwatch Institute published a report in 2006 that claims Worldwatch also reports that Kansas, North Dakota, and Texas could provide enough wind resources to meet current power demands in the entire country.