The government shutdown could have several effects on companies’ environmental and energy-related initiatives.
First, it will increase uncertainty around EPA regulations, such as 2014 biofuel targets and carbon standards for new power plants. The shutdown could also slow permitting for companies wishing to build or expand facilities.
The Department of the Interior will also stop considering permit applications for renewable energy projects, Politico reports.
On the other hand, the Department of Energy says that in the immediate future, its employees will continue to report for work as scheduled. The DOE says most of its appropriations are “multi-year or no-year,” so it escapes the shutdown’s immediate effects. But if its funds do run out, many of its programs – including Advanced Energy Research Projects and the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy – would have to suspend operations.
Picture credit: Wikipedia user Kmf164