US Court Blocks Trump Administration Order to Keep Michigan Coal Plant Open

A federal judge ruled that the U.S. Energy Department overstepped its statutory authority when it approved an extension of operations for a power plant, stating that the agency lacked the legal basis to grant the additional operating period. The decision, issued on Thursday, concluded that the department’s action violated the limits set by the Energy Policy Act, which requires explicit congressional authorization for any prolongation beyond the plant’s originally approved lifespan.

The court’s opinion highlighted that the Energy Department had not followed the mandated review process, including the required environmental impact assessment and public comment period, before issuing the extension. As a result, the department must cease any further operation of the plant beyond its current permit expiration, and the ruling may prompt a reassessment of similar extensions at other facilities nationwide.