Environmental groups slam Southwest Power Pool’s proposal, claiming it favors fossil fuels over renewable energy sources.

Environmental groups are criticizing a proposal by the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), the grid operator in 14 states, which they argue discriminates against wind and solar power. The groups argue that the plan unfairly values renewables and battery storage compared to coal, natural gas, and nuclear power. It was filed with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and could slow the shift away from fossil fuels in a large chunk of the country and lead to a massive gas build-out there if approved. The Sierra Club, Earthjustice, and the Natural Resources Defense Council have criticized the plan, citing their years of experience with widespread gas and coal failures during recent winter storms.