Missouri’s top polluting power plant may close under EPA rules [Video]

LABADIE, Mo. — Taking a deep breath comes at a cost in the St. Louis and Metro East area, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

But, new EPA rules announced Thursday may lead to a cleanup of St. Louis’ air, and a potential update, or even closure, of Ameren’s Labadie plant. The new rules mean cleaner air for Missourians and neighboring states, but it’s unclear what the rules’ effect will be on the state’s power grid and ratepayer costs.

The EPA’s updated regulations target power plant pollution, specifically limiting toxic water pollution, coal ash waste, and hazardous air pollution.

The updated Mercury and Air Toxics Standards rule, or MATS,could impact Ameren’s Labadie plant. Ameren’s Director of Environmental Services Craig Giesmann told 5 On Your Side the plant’s sulfur …