When AI Goes High‑Voltage, Trump’s Move on MATS Stokes Coal’s Pollution Fire

The Power Play

The recent executive order that rolled back Biden‑era Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) is a clear signal that the current administration wants to keep coal‑powered electricity on the table.

What MATS Really Means

MATS, introduced in 2015, set stringent limits on mercury, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and other harmful pollutants that coal plants can emit. Repealing these rules essentially removes the safety net that kept the most polluting power plants in check.

AI’s Growing Appetite for Electricity

Artificial‑intelligence workloads are notoriously energy‑hungry. The surge in new data centers—especially those built to support large language models and generative AI—has spiked demand for cheap, reliable power. Coal remains one of the most affordable options, making it an attractive source for these facilities.

The Environmental Toll

Without MATS, coal plants can increase mercury releases, a neurotoxic element that contaminates waterways and harms wildlife. This is a significant regression in public health protection, especially as AI’s electricity demand climbs.

What Could Be Done?

Re‑implement MATS or stricter equivalents to ensure coal plants meet clean‑air standards.

Invest in renewables that can power AI workloads without the toxic by‑products.

Encourage data center efficiency—a combination of advanced cooling and algorithmic optimization can reduce total consumption.

Bottom Line

Trump’s rollback of MATS is not just an environmental issue; it’s a decision that could shape the future of AI, public health, and the national energy landscape. Stakeholders—from policymakers to tech firms—must weigh the trade‑offs before the next generation of AI becomes mainstream.

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