Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) recently submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the ...

Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) recently submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the proposed Federal Implementation Plan (FIP) to limit sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions at the Gerald Gentleman Station, Nebraska's largest electric generating facility. This station, operated by Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) and crucial to Nebraska's energy infrastructure, is a vital resource for rural and urban communities, particularly our agricultural sector.

As part of our ongoing advocacy for NEFB members, here's a summary of our key points and concerns shared with the EPA on this proposed regulation:

Energy Costs and Affordability

Nebraska's agriculture industry is highly energy-dependent-relying on electricity for irrigation, grain drying, livestock care, and processing. Complying with stricter SO₂ emissions limits would likely require costly upgrades to the Gerald Gentleman Station, which could drive up energy rates. Increased utility costs could further stress the financial stability of our farmers and ranchers, who already face slim profit margins, especially for small and mid-sized operations.

Economic Viability of Rural Communities

Many rural Nebraska communities are sustained by agriculture, and their economies are closely tied to the Gerald Gentleman Station's operations. A potential reduction in the station's output or a rise in energy costs could impact local economic activity, adding to the pressures already felt from rising input costs, unpredictable markets, and challenging weather patterns. For many of our members, affordable and reliable energy is essential to maintaining a competitive edge in national and global markets.

Power Supply Reliability

The proposed emissions limits may lead to operational adjustments at the station, potentially reducing output or requiring temporary shutdowns for necessary upgrades. Energy reliability is critical for Nebraska's agricultural producers-particularly during crucial times like planting, harvesting, and grain drying seasons. Any disruption could devastate production, impacting crop yields, livestock health, and farm viability.

Environmental Stewardship in Agriculture

Our state's farmers are committed to sustainable practices and have continually invested in technologies to reduce their environmental footprint. These efforts, from precision agriculture to efficient irrigation systems, demonstrate the agricultural community's dedication to environmental responsibility. However, further limits on SO₂ emissions burden agricultural operations that depend on affordable energy to maintain and expand these eco-friendly initiatives.

Advocating for Balanced Solutions

In our comments, NEFB urged the EPA to consider balanced alternatives. Potential solutions include phased timelines, financial assistance for necessary upgrades, and incentives for renewable energy investments. Collaborating with Nebraska's energy producers, agricultural community, and local stakeholders could help create an effective and fair approach that safeguards both our environmental and economic priorities.

Conclusion

While we support clean air and sustainable environmental practices, NEFB firmly believes that the current proposal's approach to SO₂ emissions at the Gerald Gentleman Station could unintentionally harm Nebraska's agricultural backbone. We have urged the EPA to explore modifications to protect energy affordability and reliability for our farmers and ranchers, ensuring they continue to thrive as vital contributors to our state's economy.

Details about this matter can be found on the federal register. As always, if you have any questions, please reach out to Kole Pederson, Director of Environmental & Regulatory Affairs, at [email protected].