The regulations also bar federal agencies from assessing emissions of the gases blamed for global warming on species and habitats, a tactic environmentalists have tried to use to block new coal-fired power plants.

CNN: Bush set to relax endangered species rules

But Republicans still have the power to block climate legislation in the Senate, especially with some Democrats from coal and industrial states also ambivalent about cap-and-trade.

WSJ: Coming Next: The Act II Blueprint

At their rates of economic growth, disruptions in coal or natural gas supply could prove to be a major stumbling block to their economy.

FORBES: China More Than Doubles Its Solar Power Goal For 2020