Renewable Energy/Energy Efficiency An Air Permitting Perspective

1. Renewable Energy/Energy EfficiencyAn Air Permitting Perspective Roland C. Hea, P.E. Permitting Section Supervisor Air Pollution Control Division January 24, 2006

2. Energy Efficiency • Often will not have air permitting impacts • Could /should lead to reductions in pollutant emissions • Some permit changes could be needed for new equipment

3. Renewable Energy • Wind, solar and geothermal – generally no big air permitting issues • Biomass – changes in fuel types • Combustion processes • Fuel variability • Air emissions impacts

4. Permitting Considerations • Stationary sources – boilers, process heaters, engines, kilns, etc. • Evaluation of emissions • Opacity (smoke) concerns • Control technology standards • Does source meet applicable requirements?

5. Recent Permits/Applications • Three new ethanol plants permitted in 2005 (each > 42 million gallons/year) • Biodiesel plant permitted in 2005 (process up to 3 million gallons vegetable oil/year) • Proposed ethanol plant using manure as fuel • One electric utility testing sawdust • Smaller biomass-fired boilers for space heating

6. Technical Challenges • Lack of available emissions data • Not readily setup for frequent fuel switching • Pollution controls – availability and cost • Performance tests and monitoring NPS Photo

7. Other Challenges • Past experiences for permit writers • Public perceptions • Prioritizing resources • Limited mechanisms for looking at other environmental benefits • Existing regulations/policies often do not anticipate new technologies

8. Potential Solutions • Enhance communication between permit applicants, regulators, and communities • Train permit engineers on emerging technologies • Share emissions data • Develop specific exemptions for renewable energy pilot or demonstration projects

9. Contact Information • Web Site http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/ap/aphom.asp • Roland Hea Colorado APCD – Permitting Section 303-692-3252 roland.hea@state.co.us