Environmental Permitting

Air Permitting FAQs Roundup

How can I calculate emissions based on an inventory of stationary fuel burning equipment on my campus?

Using emissions data provided by the equipment manufacturer or a stack test is the most accurate way to quantify emissions, other than direct measurement.

However, in most cases, this information is not available or does not exist. In this instance, the most common method of calculating emissions is by using EPA‘s Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors, Volume I: Stationary Point and Area Sources. (This is commonly referred to as “AP-42″).

Chapters 1 and 3 are dedicated to various types of fuel burning equipment and fuels. Typically, to use the emissions factors you will need to know the capacity of each unit (which can usually be found on the plate on the unit or is available through the manufacturer) and the amount of fuel consumed and/or hours of operation. Calculate the emissions from each unit and sum them to get the facility total.

What does tons per year mean within the context of Title V? Is it the 12-month calendar year beginning in January? Is it the company’s fiscal year? Is it the 12 preceding months? Is it the 12-month period beginning with the date of permit issuance? I’m trying to figure out the triggering period for a company holding a synthetic minor permit.

Typically, compliance with synthetic minor permit limits is determined on a rolling 12-month basis.

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