Today, the U.S. Supreme Court temporarily halted implementation of the Clean Power Plan, as an appeals court considers an expedited legal challenge from states, corporations and industry groups. The ruling is not based on the merits of the plan, which will be heard in court later this year.

The Clean Power Plan is a core component of the U.S. climate plan and would reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the power sector by an average of 32 percent from 2005 levels by 2030.

Following is a statement from Sam Adams, Director, U.S. Climate Initiative:

"The Supreme Court’s highly unusual action flies in the face of common sense. Experts agree that the Clean Power Plan is on solid legal ground and will prevail based on the merits. We expect this ruling to be only a temporary 'time out' as the plan heads to full implementation.

“The benefits of the plan are clear, far-reaching and worth fighting for. The Clean Power Plan offers a smart, balanced approach that will cut dangerous pollution, as it drives innovation, creates new job opportunities, and improves public health. The shift to a strong, low-carbon economy has already crossed major thresholds, where energy from renewables is often cheaper than traditional fuels. Many states, cities, businesses and others are embracing this future.

“With the consequences of climate change becoming clearer by the day, America must not drag its feet. Legal experts are confident that the courts, when ruling on the merits, will ultimately uphold the Clean Power Plan and allow it to move ahead. Doing so will ensure that America achieves the full benefits of the clean energy economy.”