The White House has issued a proclamation granting a two-year exemption from key compliance requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency’s 2024 Coke Oven Rule for certain stationary sources identified. The decision acknowledges that the required emission control technologies are not yet commercially feasible or cost-effective, making full compliance within the original timeline unrealistic.

The announcement highlights the critical role of the metallurgical coke industry in the U.S. economy, supporting construction, energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, and defense sectors. Approximately 70% of U.S. steel production relies on coke from these ovens.

Immediate enforcement of the stricter standards could force plant shutdowns, disrupt coke supply, and severely impact the steel industry. Therefore, the President extended all compliance deadlines under the rule by two years.