EPA proposes to approve Louisiana coal-ash (CCR) permit program — state to run it in lieu of the federal program (RCRA)
The EPA proposes to approve Louisiana's Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR, i.e., coal ash) partial permit program under RCRA. If approved, the state program would operate in lieu of the federal CCR program (with specified exceptions). EPA opens a 60-day comment period and a hybrid public hearing.
Document overview (primary data)
- Document typeProposed rule
- AgencyEnvironmental Protection Agency
- Citation91 FR 34189
Key points
- EPA proposes to approve Louisiana coal-ash (CCR) partial permit program
- CCR is residue from burning coal; disposal/storage is regulated under RCRA
- EPA preliminarily finds the state (LDEQ) program meets the partial-approval standard
- If approved, the state program runs in lieu of the federal CCR program (with exceptions)
- 60-day comment period plus a hybrid public hearing
- If approved, Louisiana CCR permit program would operate in lieu of the federal programme.
EPA published a proposed rule to approve Louisiana's coal-ash (CCR) permit program.
1What coal combustion residuals are
CCR (coal combustion residuals, i.e., coal ash) is the ash and residue left after burning coal at coal-fired power plants. Because it can contain hazardous substances, its disposal and storage are regulated under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
2Reviewing the state program
EPA reviewed the CCR permit-program application submitted by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) and preliminarily determined that the state's program meets the standard for partial approval under RCRA. If approved, Louisiana's CCR permit program would operate in lieu of the federal CCR program, except for specified provisions — meaning the state would permit and oversee CCR facilities in place of the federal government.
3A 60-day comment period and hearing
EPA is providing a 60-day public comment period and will hold a hybrid (in-person and virtual) public hearing.
4Run federally, or run by the state
US environmental regulation widely uses a framework delegating operation to states that meet federal standards.
Coal combustion residuals are the ash and other residues left after burning coal in power generation; they can contain hazardous substances, so their disposal and storage are regulated. EPA reviewed the application submitted by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and preliminarily determined it meets the criteria for partial approval. A 60-day comment period and a hybrid public hearing are provided.
Why it matters
An example of the federal-state division of roles in U.S. environmental regulation (state program approval). For those in coal power, waste management, and environment, a useful read on which body operates the program.
FAQ
What is CCR (coal ash)?
What does "state runs it" mean?
Sources (primary)
Source: Federal Register (federal documents, public domain). Links go to the official site.