WASHINGTON D.C. — A week after rolling out its Clean Power Plan (CPP), which sets new limits on carbon emissions of power plants, the U.S. EPA chief called it "the biggest step our country has ever taken to fight climate change and to protect this planet."

Power plants already have limits on toxics, smog and soot pollutants; the CPP sets standards for carbon pollution. Carbon pollution is believed to be a major factor in climate change.

"Now we have standards for carbon pollution, as well. For the first time in history, the Clean Power Plan sets those limits. They are set in common sense, achievable ways that will protect our kids’ health," said Gina McCarthy, EPA administrator.

McCarthy told supporters at a Resources for the Future event in Washington, D.C., last week that carbon pollution from the nation’s power sector will be "slashed" 32 percent below 2005 levels by 2030.

"Our transition to a clean energy future is already happening. The Clean Power Plan is going to drive that forward and accelerate progress even more," she said, adding at the same time, energy will be reliable and affordable.

McCarthy said utilities and states were consulted in developing the mandatory limits on carbon emissions. For instance, states have until 2022, two years later than initially proposed, to begin implementation of their energy plans.

States have some flexibility in meeting carbon requirements. They can buy credits from other states, revamp their existing facilities and/or use renewable energy. "There are climate-related benefits that will save our country billions and far, far outweigh its costs," she said.

States that rely more heavily on coal for their energy are concerned about the cost of meeting the standards. Fifteen states – including Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan and West Virginia – filed suit last week to block EPA’s plan. Illinois joined 14 other states in issuing a statement of support for the plan.

Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller said states like Indiana have an obligation to challenge the EPA in court. "EPA’s rule is an overreach of historic proportions, and this regulation of electric power generation goes far beyond what Congress authorized the agency to do," he said.

Under the CPP, Indiana is required to reduce carbon emissions by 38.5 percent from 2012 levels by 2030.

Gov. Mike Pence said Hoosier utility bills will soar, while the EPA’s estimate is that the region’s expense will increase by only 1 percent by 2030.

McCarthy said last week the EPA attempted to set consistent standards for power plants in every state. On average consumers will see $85 in annual savings on their utility bills in 2030, she said.

She also said the CPP takes into account technological development and economic factors. Contrary to special interest groups’ claims, she said the country does not have to choose between the economy and the environment.

"This is creating jobs, not killing the economy. In the last 40 years we’ve cut air pollution by 70 percent, and the whole economy has tripled," McCarthy said.

She explained that for her, and for every person, climate change is personal.

"For farmers who are strained by the drought, for families with homes in the path of a wildfire, for small business along our coastlines, climate change is indeed very personal," she added.