When SLW wanted to install two natural-gas-fired engines powering 4.4 MW generators at its Michigan facility, the utility needed engineering and environmental assistance for developing an air permit-to-install strategy and application for submittal to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE); assessing the existing facility decommissioning requirements; and performing a baseline noise survey and floodplain evaluation.
For air permitting, Barr evaluated potential emissions of pollutants (including formaldehyde), reviewed applicable environmental regulations, and evaluated BACT for volatile organic compounds, which were proposed to be controlled by a catalytic oxidizer. We also performed air dispersion modeling of nitrogen dioxide emissions following the U.S. EPA–preferred model and EGLE guidance.
With Barr’s help, the permit application was submitted and approved, allowing SLW to proceed with equipment bidding and understand the approved emissions performance of the engines. We also helped decommission the existing structure to prepare for installation of the new natural-gas-fired engines, including asbestos assessment, lead paint detection, legacy evaluation, and guidance for proper handling and disposal of various materials. Our engineering support included bid specification and evaluation as well as site geotechnical evaluation, and in 2017 we helped modify the permit for an equipment change.