Trump is making coal plants even dirtier as AI demands more energy
The Verge
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Trump administration has repealed restrictions on mercury and toxic pollutants from power plants under the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), which were introduced during the Biden era. This move comes at a critical time when electricity demand in the U.S. is rising due to the expansion of AI data centers. Coal-fired power plants, responsible for nearly half of all mercury emissions in the country, are particularly affected by these regulations. Mercury is a potent neurotoxin linked to severe health issues such as birth defects, learning disabilities, and damage to the kidneys and nervous system.
The MATS regulations were significant in reducing pollution from coal plants, which have historically been major contributors to toxic emissions. By repealing these standards, the Trump administration aims to streamline the construction of new fossil fuel power plants, potentially increasing reliance on coal energy. This decision is part of a broader deregulatory push aimed at easing the way for industries needing additional energy sources.
For readers in the tech sector, this development highlights a complex interplay between technological growth and environmental policy. While AI's rapid expansion requires substantial energy infrastructure, the shift toward dirtier energy sources poses
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Originally published on The Verge on 2/20/2026