On June 2, 2014, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed the Clean Power Plan, the first- ever limits on carbon pollution from existing power plants. Entrenched coal interests immediately seized on the proposal as one that would dramatically cut coal use, force the implementation of new and expensive technologies, and harm those with low incomes. These claims are disingenuous. In fact, the standards will gradually transform our electric system over the next 15 years.Each state will have a tailored carbon pollution reduction target and can decide how to best reach this goal through upgrades to power plants, renewable energy, and energy efficiency. This will save consumers money while providing reliable and cleaner electricity to meet our nation’s needs.