EPA Proposes Tightening Fine Particulate Matter Standard, Potentially Affecting Coal Power Plants | Emissions News
Ethan Howland reports in Utility Dive that in a move that could add to regulatory requirements for coal-fired power plants, the Environmental Protection Agency on Friday proposed tightening the primary annual air quality standard for fine particulate matter, called PM 2.5, to a range of 9 micrograms per cubic meter to 10 µg/m3 from 12 µg/m3.
The EPA is also seeking comments on lowering the decade-old standard to 8 µg/m3 or 11 µg/m3. A final decision on where to set the limit will be based on the comments the agency receives, EPA Administrator Michael Regan said in a press briefing. The agency aims to make a decision in August.
Coal plants owners in nonattaintment areas for a revised standard will have to meet requirements outlined in any approved state plans for meeting the federal PM 2.5 limit, according to Julia Criscuolo, ESAI Power manager of renewables and emissions. They may also have to meet “good neighbor” requirements if emissions from their state prevent other states from meeting the standard, she said Thursday in an email.
Our Julia Criscuolo, Manager of Renewables and Emissions at ESAI Power, said coal plants owners in non-attainment areas for a revised standard will have to meet requirements outlined in any approved state plans for meeting the federal PM 2.5 limit. They may also have to meet “good neighbor” requirements if emissions from their state prevent other states from meeting the standard.
