New USEPA Coal Combustion Residual Regulations planned
May 2010 - The USEPA announced plans to regulate the disposal of coal combustion residuals (CCRs) from coal-fired power plants.
June 2010 - A proposed rule offering two alternatives for regulating CCRs, under either Subtitle C or Subtitle D of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
September 16, 2010 - Midwestern utilities, state environmental regulators, and beneficial users of CCRs spoke up at a public hearing in Chicago, Illinois. "Not Subtitle C" was the resounding message.
One of the primary concerns voiced by the industry at the Chicago hearing was the anticipated negative impact on beneficial reuse projects if CCRs are to be regulated under hazardous waste management rules. On the contrary, the USEPA suggests that regulating CCRs under Subtitle C may likely increase beneficial reuse due to increased cost of landfilling, and that listing CCRs as a special waste subject to hazardous waste regulation could address the issue of stigma.
Next Steps: The USEPA has extended public comments through November 19th. Before passing the rule, the USEPA will need to evaluate all the comments they receive. Currently they have not set a date for the final rule.
BT Squared Links
For more information about the proposed rule please visit these links below:
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Contact Eric Nelsonwith questions or comments at 608.216.7352 |
