US EPA chief touts clean energy amid pushback from states

PERRYSBURG, Ohio (AP) — The head of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says Ohio and other states that are pushing back against clean energy are missing a chance to add jobs.

EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy says moving toward solar and wind energy is good for the environment and the economy.

McCarthy on Thursday toured a solar plant near Toledo where she says 6,000 people in the region work in the solar industry.

McCarthy says that’s proof clean energy is growing the economy.

Ohio is one of two dozen states challenging President Barack Obama’s Clean Power Plan. Attorney General Mike DeWine says the plan would dramatically increase electric rates and make service less reliable.

Ohio also has put a freeze on government requirements meant to boost solar, wind and other forms of renewable energy.