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D.C. Circuit Strikes Down DOE Order Keeping Coal Plant Open

By Drooid · Sep 12, 2026, 2:42 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

D.C. Circuit Blocks

U.S. D.C. Circuit Court struck down Energy Department order to keep J.H. Campbell coal plant operating.
The 64-year-old J.H. Campbell plant had been slated to retire in 2025.
Judge Cornelia Pillard said emergency authority is a narrow, last-resort backstop.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright ordered TransAlta’s Centralia plant in Washington to stay open past 2025.
Critics say the orders raise ratepayer bills and add avoidable air and water pollution.

Summary

Plant Emits

The plant emitted 1,000 tons of nitrogen oxides, 2,000 tons of sulfur dioxide, and 140 tons of particulates.
EDF estimates the emissions could cause about 100 new asthma cases among 3,000 nearby residents.
DOE said the orders prevented blackouts and likely saved hundreds of lives during winter storms.
The order was extended six times, most recently through Nov 14, 2026.
Lawyers warn the administration may seek rehearing or Supreme Court review, delaying shutdown.

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D.C. Circuit Blocks

U.S. D.C. Circuit Court struck down Energy Department order to keep J.H. Campbell coal plant operating.
The 64-year-old J.H. Campbell plant had been slated to retire in 2025.
Judge Cornelia Pillard said emergency authority is a narrow, last-resort backstop.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright ordered TransAlta’s Centralia plant in Washington to stay open past 2025.
Critics say the orders raise ratepayer bills and add avoidable air and water pollution.

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