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DOT-OST-2002-12210-0004
Notice
"2002-05-29T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: American Airlines, Inc., United Air Lines, Inc. and Delta Air Lines, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Issued by the Department of Transportation on May 29, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKETS OST-2000-7149, OST-2002-12210, & OST-2002-12183 This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applications of American Airlines, Inc., Dockets: OST-2000-7149 and OST-2002-12210, filed 4/29/2002; United Air Lines, Inc., Docket: OST-2000-7149, filed 4/26/2002; and Delta Air Lines, Inc., Docket: OST-2002-12183, filed 4/24/2001 XX Allocation of U.S.-Ghana Frequencies. American, United, and Delta each request weekly frequencies to serve the U.S.-Ghana market. Docket OST-2000-7149: American requests four weekly frequencies to operate third-country code-share services between the United States and Ghana, by placing American’s designator code on Crossair Ltd., d/b/a Swiss, between Zurich and Accra, Ghana, via Lagos, Nigeria, carrying U.S.-Lagos and U.S.-Ghana passengers connecting at Zurich from American’s and Swiss’s U.S. gateways. Docket OST-2000-7149: United requests two weekly frequencies to operate third-country code-share services between the United States and Ghana, by placing United’s designator code on Lufthansa German Airlines (Lufthansa), between the United States and Accra, Ghana, via Frankfurt, through the intermediate point of Lagos, Nigeria. Docket OST-2002-12183: Delta requests four weekly frequencies to operate third-country code-share services between the United States and Ghana, by placing Delta’s designator code on the flights of Alitalia-Linee Aeree Italiane S.p.A., between Milan, Italy, and Accra, Ghana. XX Exemption for American Airlines, Inc., under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Docket OST-2002-12210: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between points in the United States and points in Nigeria and Ghana, with the right to integrate such authority with American’s certificates of public convenience and necessary and other exemptions. XX Motion of American Airlines, Inc., to withdraw its application as follows: Docket OST-2000-7149: American filed a motion on April 29, 2002, to dismiss its April 14, 2000, application in this docket, to the extent the carrier requested U.S.-Ghana code-share frequencies under a code-share arrangement with British Airways. Applicant reps: Carl B. Nelson, Jr., for American (202) 496-5647, Robert E. Cohn for Delta (202) 663-8060; and Jeffrey A. Manley for United (202) 663-6670 DOT Analyst: Linda L. Lundell (202) 366-2336 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted (see below). The above action granting frequency allocations, in Dockets OST-2000-7149 and OST-2002-12183, was effective when taken: May 28, 2002, and will remain in effect indefinitely, subject to the conditions described below. The above action granting exemption authority to American Airlines, Inc., in Docket OST-2002-12210, for U.S.-Nigeria and U.S.-Ghana services, including route integration authority, was effective when taken: May 28, 2002, through May 28, 2004, or until 90 days after final Department action on a corresponding certification application, whichever occurs earlier. The above action granting the request of American Airlines, Inc., to dismiss its April 14, 2000, application in Docket OST-2000-7149 was effective when taken: May 28, 2002. Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted is consistent with the aviation agreements between the United States and Ghana, and the United States and Nigeria. Except to the extent exempted or waived, the authority for each carrier is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX Each holder’s certificates of public convenience and necessity XX Statements of Authorization for American/Swiss code-share operations dated dated April 23, 2002; Delta/Alitalia code-share operations dated October 27, 2001; and United/Lufthansa code-share operations dated April 8, 1998, and conditions therein. XX Standard Exemption Conditions (attached) ________________________________________________________________________ ____________________ Background: Under the U.S.-Ghana aviation agreement, U.S. carriers may operate a total of 27 weekly combination frequencies, of which no more than 14 may be provided with the airlines’ own aircraft. Currently, a total of 16 frequencies are held as follows: Northwest=7, Continental=7, and United=2. Thus, 11 frequencies are available now for allocation. The captioned applicants have requested a total of 10 frequencies, meaning that these requests do not exceed the frequencies available to U.S. carriers under the agreement, with one remaining available for future allocation. Conditions: Consistent with our standard practice, the frequency allocations granted are subject to the condition that they will expire automatically and the frequencies will revert automatically to the Department for reallocation if they are not used for a period of 90 days. As each of the carriers authorized has proposed to commence services immediately, the 90-day dormancy period will begin on the issue date of this notice. Route Integration Condition for American Airlines: The route integration authority granted to American Airlines, Inc., is subject to the condition that any service provided under this exemption shall be consistent with all applicable agreements between the United States and the foreign countries involved. Furthermore, (a) nothing in the award of the route integration authority granted should be construed as conferring upon American rights (including fifth-freedom intermediate and/or beyond rights) to serve markets where U.S. carrier entry is limited unless the carrier notifies the Department of its intent to serve such a market and unless and until the Department has completed any necessary carrier selection procedures to determine which carrier(s) should be authorized to exercise such rights; and (b) should there be a request by any carrier to use the limited-entry route rights that are included in American’s authority by virtue of the route integration exemption granted here, but that are not being used by American, the holding of such authority by route integration will not be construed as providing any preference for American in a competitive carrier selection proceeding to determine which carrier(s) should be entitled to use the authority at issue. Remarks: United filed an answer to American’s April 29, 2002, applications (in Dockets OST-2000-7149 and OST-2002-12210); American filed an answer to United’s April 26, 2002, application (in Docket OST-2000-7149); United and American each filed answers to Delta’s April 24, 2002, application (in Docket OST-2002-12183); and Delta filed a consolidated reply to the answers of United and American (in Docket OST-2002-12183). In these responses, the carriers stated that they had no objection to the other applications filed so long as their own application for Ghana frequencies was granted contemporaneously. ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted or dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Dockets. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/report_aviation.asp APPENDIX A U.S. CARRIER Standard Exemption Conditions In the conduct of operations authorized by the attached order, the applicant(s) shall: (1) Hold at all times effective operating authority from the government of each country served; (2) Comply with applicable requirements concerning oversales contained in 14 CFR 250 (for scheduled operations, if authorized); (3) Comply with the requirements for reporting data contained in 14 CFR 241; (4) Comply with requirements for minimum insurance coverage, and for certifying that coverage to the Department, contained in 14 CFR 205; (5) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (6) Comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations, and with all U.S. Government requirements concerning security; and (7) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department of Transportation, with all applicable orders and regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. The authority granted shall be effective only during the period when the holder is in compliance with the conditions imposed above. By Notice of Action Taken dated July 13, 2000, we deferred action on American’s April 14, 2000 application, pending the Department’s action on the underlying code-share arrangement between American and British Airways in Docket OST-99-6507. By Order 2002-4-4, April 4, 2002, we granted the motion of American and British Airways to dismiss the code-share application in Docket OST-99-6507. We will now grant the April 29, 2002 American motion to dismiss in Docket OST-2000-7149. On April 3, 2003, five additional frequencies become available (no more than 21 of which may be provided with the airlines’ own aircraft), and on April 1, 2004, frequency restrictions are eliminated (no more than 21 of which may be provided with the airlines’ own aircraft).
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.121438
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12210-0004/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12210-0006
Notice
"2002-08-23T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: American Airlines, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Issued by the Department of Transportation on August 23, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKETS OST-2002-12210 & 2000-7149 _____________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Application of American Airlines, Inc. filed 8/8/02 for: XX Waiver from dormancy condition: By Notice of Action Taken dated May 29, 2002, the Department granted American Airlines four weekly combination frequencies to provide third-country code-share services in the U.S.-Ghana market, pursuant to a code-share arrangement with Swiss International Air Lines, Ltd., via Zurich Switzerland and Lagos, Nigeria. The frequencies are subject to the condition that they will expire automatically and revert to the Department for reallocation if they are not used for a period of 90 days. Under the terms of the Notice of Action Taken, American’s frequency allocation would automatically expire if American does not begin service by August 28, 2002. American and Swiss have applied to the Government of Ghana for required authorizations and expect to receive them shortly; however, American seeks a waiver from the 90-day dormancy condition through October 28, 2002, to protect against the possibility that the authorizations may not be ready in time to implement the service by August 28, 2002. Applicant rep.: Carl B. Nelson, Jr., 202-496-5647 DOT analyst: Sylvia Moore, 202-366-6519 DISPOSITION XX Granted (see Remarks) The above action was effective when taken: August 23, 2002, through October 28, 2002 XX Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ______________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; and (2) grant of the waiver was consistent with the public interest. To the extent not granted, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp American's waiver from the dormancy condition is effective through October 28, 2002, or until the date on which American begins service with each of the frequencies, whichever occurs earlier. As to any frequency with which American does not begin service by October 28, 2002, its frequency allocation with respect to that frequency expires automatically.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.123585
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12210-0006/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12211-0002
Notice
"2002-05-30T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: MN Airlines, LLC d/b/a Sun Country Airlines
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on May 30, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-12211 ________________________________________________________________________ ___________________This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Application of MN AIRLINES, LLC d/b/a SUN COUNTRY AIRLINES filed 5/3/02, for: XX Exemption for two years under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota, on the one hand, and Cancun, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, and Manzanillo, Mexico, on the other hand; and between Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, on the one hand, and Cancun, Cozumel, and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, on the other hand. Sun Country also requests authority to integrate this service with other exemption and certificate authorities held by Sun Country. Sun Country states that it will provide seasonal services in all of the subject markets. Applicant rep: Ed Faberman (202) 639-7500 DOT Analyst: Linda Lundell (202) 366-2336 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted (subject to conditions, see below) The authority granted was effective when taken: May 30, 2002, through May 30, 2004, or until 90 days after final Department action on a corresponding certificate application, whichever occurs earlier. Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted is consistent with the aviation agreement between the United States and Mexico. Except to the extent exempted or waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX Holder’s certificates of public convenience and necessity XX Standard Exemption Conditions (attached) ________________________________________________________________________ __________ Conditions: The U.S.-Mexico exemption authority granted is subject to the dormancy notice requirements set forth in condition 7 of Appendix A of Order 88-10-2. Consistent with our standard practice, the dormancy notice period will begin on Sun Country’s proposed startup dates of December 20, 2002, for the Minneapolis/St. Paul-Cancun/Puerto Vallarta/Mazatlan markets; December 21, 2002, for the Minneapolis/St. Paul-Cozumel/Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo markets; January 21, 2003, for the Minneapolis/St. Paul-Manzanillo market; October 17, 2002, for the Dallas/Ft. Worth- 2 Cancun market; October 18, 2002, for the Dallas/Ft. Worth-Cozumel market and December 18, 2002, for the Dallas/Ft. Worth-Puerto Vallarta market. The route integration authority granted to Sun Country is subject to the condition that any service provided under this exemption shall be consistent with all applicable agreements between the United States and the foreign countries involved. Furthermore, (a) nothing in the award of the route integration authority requested should be construed as conferring upon Sun Country additional rights (including fifth-freedom intermediate and/or beyond rights) to serve markets where U.S. carrier entry is limited unless Sun Country notifies the Department of its intent to serve such a market and unless and until the Department has completed any necessary carrier selection procedures to determine which carrier(s) should be authorized to exercise such rights); (b) should there be a request by any carrier to use the limited-entry route rights that are included in Sun Country’s authority by virtue of the route integration exemption granted here, but that are not then being used by Sun Country, the holding of such authority by route integration will not be considered as providing any preference for Sun Country in a competitive carrier selection proceeding to determine which carrier(s) should be entitled to use the authority at issue. ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________ On the basis of data officially noticeable under Rule 24(g) of the Department’s regulations, we found the applicant qualified to provide the services authorized. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the application was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp APPENDIX A U.S. CARRIER Standard Exemption Conditions In the conduct of operations authorized by the attached notice, the applicant(s) shall: (1) Hold at all times effective operating authority from the government of each country served; (2) Comply with applicable requirements concerning oversales contained in 14 CFR 250 (for scheduled operations, if authorized); (3) Comply with the requirements for reporting data contained in 14 CFR 241; (4) Comply with requirements for minimum insurance coverage, and for certifying that coverage to the Department, contained in 14 CFR 205; (5) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (6) Comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations, and with all U.S. Government requirements concerning security; and (7) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department of Transportation, with all applicable orders and regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. The authority granted shall be effective only during the period when the holder is in compliance with the conditions imposed above.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.125756
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12211-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12477-0001
Notice
"2002-06-10T04:00:00"
Notice of Termination of Service at Youngstown, Ohio
BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION WASHINGTON, D.C. Notice of MESABA AVIATION, INC. d/b/a MESABA AIRLINES of intent to terminate service at Youngstown, Ohio pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 41734 and 14 C.F.R. § 323 ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) Docket OST-02- Dated: June 10, 2002 NOTICE OF TERMINATION OF SERVICE AT YOUNGSTOWN, OHIO Mesaba Aviation, Inc. d/b/a Mesaba Airlines (“Mesaba”) hereby submits notice, pursuant to 49 U.S.C § 41734 and 14 C.F.R. § 323.3, of its intent to terminate service to Youngstown, Ohio, effective September 8, 2002. Mesaba provides this service as Northwest Airlink. In support of this Notice, Mesaba states the following: 1. Mesaba is a certificated air carrier, whose corporate office is located at: 7501 26th Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55450 (612) 726-5151. Communications with respect to this Notice should be directed to: Robert E. Weil Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Mesaba Airlines 7501 26th Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55450 (612) 726-5151 FAX: (612) 726-5168 2. No other carrier is currently serving Youngstown from a large or medium hub. The Department, moreover, has determined that it cannot require any carrier to continue service beyond the termination period because Youngstown is located only 56 highway miles from a large hub airport: Pittsburgh. See DOT Order 99-11-21, at 2-3 (Dec. 3, 1999). 3. The routing and schedule of the service that Mesaba is terminating on September 8, 2002 is as follows: From Departure To Arrival Frequency DTW 13:50 YNG 15:42 Daily one stop via CAK DTW 19:50 YNG 20:52 Daily one stop via CAK YNG 16:05 DTW 17:59 Daily one stop via CAK YNG 07:30 DTW 09:25 Daily one stop via CAK 4. Mesaba operates these flights with Saab SF340 aircraft (34 passenger seats). 5. Mesaba intends to terminate the service on September 8, 2002. 6. In 1983, the Department determined that the level of essential air service for Youngstown was a minimum of two daily roundtrips to/from Chicago and two daily roundtrips to/from Pittsburgh. See DOT Order 83-11-19 (Nov. 4, 1983). This Order required that the Pittsburgh service must be provided on a nonstop basis, while the Chicago service may be provided on a two-stop basis. Id. Subsequently, in 1999, the Department amended the 1983 essential air service requirement to recognize service to any large or medium hub. DOT Order 99-11-21 (Dec. 3, 1999). The Department also determined that it could not subsidize any carrier serving Youngstown because this community was 56 highway miles from Pittsburgh and, therefore, could not require any carrier to continue serving Youngstown beyond the 90-day termination notice period. Id. The Department, however, continued to require notice of the termination, and Mesaba is complying with this notice requirement. 7. The effective date of this Notice is June 10, 2002. Objections to this Notice are due within 20 days of this Notice or on July 1, 2002. 8. As required by 14 C.F.R. § 323.7(a), this Notice is being served upon all persons listed on the attached service list. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Robert E. Weil /s/ Robert E. Weil Vice President and Chief Financial Officer MESABA AIRLINES 7501 26TH Avenue South Minneapolis, MS 55450 (612) 726-5151 Dated: June 10, 2002 SERVICE LIST On this 10th day of June 2002, a copy of this NOTICE OF TERMINATION was served by first class mail, postage prepaid, upon each of the persons below: Dennis DeVany, Chief EAS and Domestic Analysis, X-53 U.S. Department of Transportation 400 Seventh Street, S.W. Room 6417I Washington, D.C. 20590 Thomas P. Nolan, Director Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport 1453 Youngstown Kingsville Road, N.E. Vienna, OH 44473 George McKelvey, Mayor City of Youngstown 120 Market Street Youngstown, OH 44503 Patricia E. Davis, Postmaster Youngstown Post Office 99 South Walnut Street Youngstown, OH 44501 (…continued) (continued…) NOTICE OF TERMINATION OF MESABA AIRLINES Page PAGE \* MERGEFORMAT 3 PAGE 2
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.131077
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12477-0001/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12481-0002
Notice
"2002-07-03T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: US Airways, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Issued by the Department of Transportation on July 3, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-12481 ________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Application of US Airways, Inc. filed 6/11/2002 for: XX Exemption under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between Washington, D.C., and Nassau, The Bahamas, for a period of two years. Applicant rep: Joel Stephen Burton, 202-383-5300 DOT Analyst: Gerald Caolo, 202-366-2406 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted The above action was effective when taken: July 3, 2002, through July 3, 2004 Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted is consistent with the U.S.-U.K. Air Services Agreement of 1946, as amended, to which The Bahamas acceded upon its independence. Except to the extent exempted or waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX Holder’s certificates of public convenience and necessity XX Standard exemption conditions (attached) ________________________________________________________________________ ______________ On the basis of data officially noticeable under Rule 24(g) of the Department's regulations, we found the applicant qualified to provide the services authorized. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the exemption authority was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp APPENDIX U.S. Carrier Standard Exemption Conditions In the conduct of operations authorized by the attached notice, the applicant(s) shall: (1) Hold at all times effective operating authority from the government of each country served; (2) Comply with applicable requirements concerning oversales contained in 14 CFR 250 (for scheduled operations, if authorized); (3) Comply with the requirements for reporting data contained in 14 CFR 241; (4) Comply with requirements for minimum insurance coverage, and for certifying that coverage to the Department, contained in 14 CFR 205; (5) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (6) Comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration Regulations and with all U.S. Government requirements concerning security; and (7) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department of Transportation, with all applicable orders and regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. The authority granted shall be effective only during the period when the holder is in compliance with the conditions imposed above.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.134324
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12481-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12496-0001-0001
Notice
"2002-06-13T04:00:00"
Notice - U.S.-Vietnam Third-Country Code-Share Opportunity
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Docket: OST-2002-12496 Served: June 13, 2002 NOTICE U.S.-Vietnam Third-Country Code-Share Opportunity By this notice we invite all U.S. certificated air carriers interested in using seven weekly frequencies and a third-country code-share opportunity in the U.S.-Vietnam market to file applications as specified below in the captioned docket. The Memorandum of Discussions (MOD) signed in March 2000 by the United States and Vietnam, states the intent of the respective authorities to allow, inter alia, third-country code-sharing of passenger air transportation in the U.S.-Vietnam market (via intermediate points) on the basis of comity and reciprocity. Specifically, the MOD provides that up to three cooperative marketing arrangements “between any number of U.S. airlines and any number of third-country airlines” may be authorized. The code-share arrangements may serve between any points in the United States, on the one hand, and up to three Vietnamese points selected by the United States (via any intermediate points), on the other hand. The MOD provides for a total of 21 weekly round-trip frequencies for use by U.S. carriers to operate these services. By Order 2001-8-21, served August 23, 2001, the Department awarded Delta Air Lines, Inc., Northwest Airlines, Inc. and United Air Lines, Inc. seven weekly frequencies each for U.S.-Vietnam third-country code-sharing services and granted the necessary regulatory authority for the carriers to conduct their respective code-share services. Each allocation of frequencies was subject to the condition that the frequencies would revert automatically to the Department if unused for a period of 90 days and the dormancy period began on the date of service of the order (i.e., August 23, 2001). Subsequently, by Order 2001-11-15, the carriers were granted dormancy waivers due to the circumstances of September 11, 2001, but that order noted that any dormant limited-entry route authorities not resumed by April 1, 2002, would revert automatically to the Department. Northwest Airlines did not begin services to Vietnam by that date; thus, its frequencies have reverted to the Department, and the designation as well as the frequencies formerly held by Northwest are at issue before the Department. On May 9, 2002, American Airlines submitted an application for six frequencies for third country services to Vietnam via Tokyo, Japan, with Japan Airlines Company, Ltd. Subsequently, additional applications for some or all of the available frequencies were filed in Docket 2000-7194, the Docket for the previous allocation of frequencies in 2001, by Delta Air Lines (with code-share partner Korean Airlines seeking six frequencies), Northwest Airlines, Inc. (with code-share partner Malaysia Airlines for reallocation of seven frequencies), and United Air Lines, Inc. (with code-share partners All Nippon Airways Co. Ltd, and Thai Airways International Public Co. Ltd. seeking seven frequencies). Inasmuch as there are more requests for frequencies than there are frequencies available, we will consolidate these requests (and related pleadings thereto) into a new docket (noted in the heading of this notice) to consider these requests as well as any other applications that may be filed in response to this notice. We will allow carriers with the pending requests to supplement their applications to provide the information we are requiring for consideration. We request by this notice that all U.S. air carriers interested in making use of the code-share opportunity and related frequencies described above file applications (or supplemented applications) with the Department in the newly established docket no later than June 27, 2002. Answers to such applications should be filed no later than July 8, 2002. Replies to answers should be filed no later than July 15, 2002. Carriers without the requisite operating authority should file exemption/designation applications and requests for statements of authorization to serve the affected markets in conjunction with the foreign code-share carrier(s) involved. Carriers with the requisite underlying authority and statements of authorization need only file requests for the available code-share opportunity. All applications should include, at a minimum, the following information: (a) the proposed startup date; (b) the markets to be served, including the number and identity of U.S. cities that would receive nonstop-to-nonstop connections in the U.S.-Vietnan market, and the total elapsed travel time (including layover time) for each flight between each initial point of origin and each final destination in both directions (i.e. provide a total elapsed round-trip travel time for each city pair and break-out subtotals for the elapsed times on the U.S. to Vietnam flights and the Vietnam to U.S. flights); (c) the number of frequencies to be provided between the U.S. and Vietnam and the duration of service if not provided on a year-round basis for each leg of the flights; (d) type of aircraft, including the number of seats, to be used between the U.S. and the intermediate point(s) and between the intermediate point(s) and Vietnam; (e) the foreign code-share carrier involved, the country and the specific intermediate point(s) over which the services will be provided, and which carrier would be operating each leg of the flights; (f) existing authority held to conduct the operations, if applicable; and (g) assurance that the U.S. air carrier applicant has provided or will provide the Department with the Compliance Statement referred to in Section IV of the DOT Code-Share Safety Program Guidelines (issued February 29, 2000) concerning a safety audit of the foreign air carrier(s) involved. In addition, carriers must provide as a part of their applications, copies of the relevant cooperative service arrangements, if not already on file with the Department. Applicants are free to submit any additional information that they believe will help us in making our decision. Except for the procedural dates, exemption applications should conform to Part 302, Subpart C of our regulations (14 CFR Part 302). All applications (for operating authority and/or designation) should be filed with the Department of Transportation in the established docket, Dockets and Media Management, Room PL-401, 400 Seventh Street, SW, Washington, DC 20590. We intend to allocate the available opportunities at issue based on the applications and responsive pleadings filed in response to this notice. We intend to make our decision using written, show-cause procedures in accordance with Part 302 of our regulations (14 CFR Part 302). We will authorize service of documents by facsimile and by electronic mail. Carriers that are interested in such service, however, should state if they want service by email and should provide interested parties with their fax number and/or email address. We will serve this notice on all U.S. certificated air carriers operating large aircraft. By: PAUL L. GRETCH Director Office of International Aviation (SEAL) Dated: June 13, 2002 An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp The MOD does not contemplate direct service between the United States and Vietnam. The United States has selected the Vietnamese cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and DaNang. The three points selected by the United States may be changed subject to a 30-day advance notice requirement. Delta’s code-share partner was Air France; Nortwest’s partners were Malaysia Airlines and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines; and United’s partners were All Nippon Airways Co., Ltd., Thai Airways International, and Lufthansa German Airlines. See Docket OST-2002-12301. See Docket OST-2000-7194. The original submission is to be unbound and without tabs on 8 ½" x 11" white paper using dark ink (not green) to facilitate use of the Department's docket imaging system. In the alternative, filers are encouraged to use the electronic submission capability available through the Dockets/DMS Internet site ( HYPERLINK "http://dms.dot.gov" http://dms.dot.gov ) by following the instructions at the web site). PAGE PAGE 2
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.138080
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12496-0001-0001/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12496-0001-0002
Notice
"2002-06-13T04:00:00"
Notice - U.S.-Vietnam Third-Country Code-Share Opportunity
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Docket: OST-2002-12496 Served: June 13, 2002 NOTICE U.S.-Vietnam Third-Country Code-Share Opportunity By this notice we invite all U.S. certificated air carriers interested in using seven weekly frequencies and a third-country code-share opportunity in the U.S.-Vietnam market to file applications as specified below in the captioned docket. The Memorandum of Discussions (MOD) signed in March 2000 by the United States and Vietnam, states the intent of the respective authorities to allow, inter alia, third-country code-sharing of passenger air transportation in the U.S.-Vietnam market (via intermediate points) on the basis of comity and reciprocity. Specifically, the MOD provides that up to three cooperative marketing arrangements “between any number of U.S. airlines and any number of third-country airlines” may be authorized. The code-share arrangements may serve between any points in the United States, on the one hand, and up to three Vietnamese points selected by the United States (via any intermediate points), on the other hand. The MOD provides for a total of 21 weekly round-trip frequencies for use by U.S. carriers to operate these services. By Order 2001-8-21, served August 23, 2001, the Department awarded Delta Air Lines, Inc., Northwest Airlines, Inc. and United Air Lines, Inc. seven weekly frequencies each for U.S.-Vietnam third-country code-sharing services and granted the necessary regulatory authority for the carriers to conduct their respective code-share services. Each allocation of frequencies was subject to the condition that the frequencies would revert automatically to the Department if unused for a period of 90 days and the dormancy period began on the date of service of the order (i.e., August 23, 2001). Subsequently, by Order 2001-11-15, the carriers were granted dormancy waivers due to the circumstances of September 11, 2001, but that order noted that any dormant limited-entry route authorities not resumed by April 1, 2002, would revert automatically to the Department. Northwest Airlines did not begin services to Vietnam by that date; thus, its frequencies have reverted to the Department, and the designation as well as the frequencies formerly held by Northwest are at issue before the Department. On May 9, 2002, American Airlines submitted an application for six frequencies for third country services to Vietnam via Tokyo, Japan, with Japan Airlines Company, Ltd. Subsequently, additional applications for some or all of the available frequencies were filed in Docket 2000-7194, the Docket for the previous allocation of frequencies in 2001, by Delta Air Lines (with code-share partner Korean Airlines seeking six frequencies), Northwest Airlines, Inc. (with code-share partner Malaysia Airlines for reallocation of seven frequencies), and United Air Lines, Inc. (with code-share partners All Nippon Airways Co. Ltd, and Thai Airways International Public Co. Ltd. seeking seven frequencies). Inasmuch as there are more requests for frequencies than there are frequencies available, we will consolidate these requests (and related pleadings thereto) into a new docket (noted in the heading of this notice) to consider these requests as well as any other applications that may be filed in response to this notice. We will allow carriers with the pending requests to supplement their applications to provide the information we are requiring for consideration. We request by this notice that all U.S. air carriers interested in making use of the code-share opportunity and related frequencies described above file applications (or supplemented applications) with the Department in the newly established docket no later than June 27, 2002. Answers to such applications should be filed no later than July 8, 2002. Replies to answers should be filed no later than July 15, 2002. Carriers without the requisite operating authority should file exemption/designation applications and requests for statements of authorization to serve the affected markets in conjunction with the foreign code-share carrier(s) involved. Carriers with the requisite underlying authority and statements of authorization need only file requests for the available code-share opportunity. All applications should include, at a minimum, the following information: (a) the proposed startup date; (b) the markets to be served, including the number and identity of U.S. cities that would receive nonstop-to-nonstop connections in the U.S.-Vietnan market, and the total elapsed travel time (including layover time) for each flight between each initial point of origin and each final destination in both directions (i.e. provide a total elapsed round-trip travel time for each city pair and break-out subtotals for the elapsed times on the U.S. to Vietnam flights and the Vietnam to U.S. flights); (c) the number of frequencies to be provided between the U.S. and Vietnam and the duration of service if not provided on a year-round basis for each leg of the flights; (d) type of aircraft, including the number of seats, to be used between the U.S. and the intermediate point(s) and between the intermediate point(s) and Vietnam; (e) the foreign code-share carrier involved, the country and the specific intermediate point(s) over which the services will be provided, and which carrier would be operating each leg of the flights; (f) existing authority held to conduct the operations, if applicable; and (g) assurance that the U.S. air carrier applicant has provided or will provide the Department with the Compliance Statement referred to in Section IV of the DOT Code-Share Safety Program Guidelines (issued February 29, 2000) concerning a safety audit of the foreign air carrier(s) involved. In addition, carriers must provide as a part of their applications, copies of the relevant cooperative service arrangements, if not already on file with the Department. Applicants are free to submit any additional information that they believe will help us in making our decision. Except for the procedural dates, exemption applications should conform to Part 302, Subpart C of our regulations (14 CFR Part 302). All applications (for operating authority and/or designation) should be filed with the Department of Transportation in the established docket, Dockets and Media Management, Room PL-401, 400 Seventh Street, SW, Washington, DC 20590. We intend to allocate the available opportunities at issue based on the applications and responsive pleadings filed in response to this notice. We intend to make our decision using written, show-cause procedures in accordance with Part 302 of our regulations (14 CFR Part 302). We will authorize service of documents by facsimile and by electronic mail. Carriers that are interested in such service, however, should state if they want service by email and should provide interested parties with their fax number and/or email address. We will serve this notice on all U.S. certificated air carriers operating large aircraft. By: PAUL L. GRETCH Director Office of International Aviation (SEAL) Dated: June 13, 2002 An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp The MOD does not contemplate direct service between the United States and Vietnam. The United States has selected the Vietnamese cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and DaNang. The three points selected by the United States may be changed subject to a 30-day advance notice requirement. Delta’s code-share partner was Air France; Nortwest’s partners were Malaysia Airlines and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines; and United’s partners were All Nippon Airways Co., Ltd., Thai Airways International, and Lufthansa German Airlines. See Docket OST-2002-12301. See Docket OST-2000-7194. The original submission is to be unbound and without tabs on 8 ½" x 11" white paper using dark ink (not green) to facilitate use of the Department's docket imaging system. In the alternative, filers are encouraged to use the electronic submission capability available through the Dockets/DMS Internet site ( HYPERLINK "http://dms.dot.gov" http://dms.dot.gov ) by following the instructions at the web site). PAGE PAGE 2
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.172787
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12496-0001-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12496-0003-0001
Notice
"2002-06-21T04:00:00"
Notice Revising Procedural Schedule
. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. _______________________________ In the Matter of U.S.-Vietnam Third-Country Code-Share Opportunity Docket OST-2002-12496 ________________________________ Served: June 21, 2002 NOTICE REVISING PROCEDURAL SCHEDULE On June 13, 2002, the Department issued a Notice establishing a procedural schedule in the above-captioned matter, whereby applications or supplemented applications are due June 27, 2002, answers thereto are due July 8, 2002, and replies are due July 15, 2002. On June 17, 2002, American Airlines, Inc., Delta Air Lines, Inc., Northwest Airlines, Inc., and United Air Lines, Inc. (the “Movants”) filed a joint motion to change the procedural dates in the above-captioned matter. The Movants request that the answer period established by the Department’s June 13, 2002, Notice be changed from July 8, 2002, to July 12, 2002, and that the reply date be changed from July 15, 2002, to July 19, 2002. The Movants note that the present July 8 date falls on the Monday following the long July 4 weekend and that in effect the applicants would have only until July 3 to complete their answers absent the extension requested. They state that in this proceeding, the applicants’ answers constitute their principal opportunity to demonstrate the comparative merits of their respective proposals and that the requested extension will facilitate the development of a complete record for the Department’s consideration, and will not materially delay the Department’s decision. The Movants have requested a modest extension for the answer and reply periods. We believe, in the circumstances presented, that no interested party will be harmed by grant of the requested extension. Therefore, we shall, acting under authority assigned in 14 CFR 385.3, require that answers in the above-captioned proceeding shall now be filed no later than July 12, 2002, and replies shall now be filed no later than July 19, 2002. As noted in the Department’s June 13, 2002, Notice, service of documents may be by facsimile and by electronic mail. We will serve this notice by facsimile on all carriers served with the Department’s June 13, 2002, Notice. By: PAUL L. GRETCH Director, Office of International Aviation (SEAL) Dated: June 21, 2002 An electronic version of this notice is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.175546
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12496-0003-0001/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12496-0003-0002
Notice
"2002-06-21T04:00:00"
Notice Revising Procedural Schedule
. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. _______________________________ In the Matter of U.S.-Vietnam Third-Country Code-Share Opportunity Docket OST-2002-12496 ________________________________ Served: June 21, 2002 NOTICE REVISING PROCEDURAL SCHEDULE On June 13, 2002, the Department issued a Notice establishing a procedural schedule in the above-captioned matter, whereby applications or supplemented applications are due June 27, 2002, answers thereto are due July 8, 2002, and replies are due July 15, 2002. On June 17, 2002, American Airlines, Inc., Delta Air Lines, Inc., Northwest Airlines, Inc., and United Air Lines, Inc. (the “Movants”) filed a joint motion to change the procedural dates in the above-captioned matter. The Movants request that the answer period established by the Department’s June 13, 2002, Notice be changed from July 8, 2002, to July 12, 2002, and that the reply date be changed from July 15, 2002, to July 19, 2002. The Movants note that the present July 8 date falls on the Monday following the long July 4 weekend and that in effect the applicants would have only until July 3 to complete their answers absent the extension requested. They state that in this proceeding, the applicants’ answers constitute their principal opportunity to demonstrate the comparative merits of their respective proposals and that the requested extension will facilitate the development of a complete record for the Department’s consideration, and will not materially delay the Department’s decision. The Movants have requested a modest extension for the answer and reply periods. We believe, in the circumstances presented, that no interested party will be harmed by grant of the requested extension. Therefore, we shall, acting under authority assigned in 14 CFR 385.3, require that answers in the above-captioned proceeding shall now be filed no later than July 12, 2002, and replies shall now be filed no later than July 19, 2002. As noted in the Department’s June 13, 2002, Notice, service of documents may be by facsimile and by electronic mail. We will serve this notice by facsimile on all carriers served with the Department’s June 13, 2002, Notice. By: PAUL L. GRETCH Director, Office of International Aviation (SEAL) Dated: June 21, 2002 An electronic version of this notice is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.178130
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12496-0003-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12502-0003
Notice
"2002-06-21T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Compania Mexicana de Aviacion, S.A. de C.V. and United Air Lines, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on June 21, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-12502 This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Application of COMPANIA MEXICANA DE AVIACION, S.A. de C.V. (MEXICANA), and UNITED AIR LINES, INC. (UNITED), filed 6/13/02, for: XX Exemption for United for two years under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between (1) Sacramento, California, and Guadalajara, Mexico; and (2) Denver, Colorado, and Mexico City, Mexico. United intends to operate this service under a code-share arrangement with Mexicana on flights operated by Mexicana. XX Statement of Authorization for Mexicana under Part 212 of the Department’s Regulations to: Display United’s “UA” designator code on flights operated by Mexicana between Sacramento and Guadalajara, and between Denver and Mexico City. Applicant reps: Jeffrey Manley (United) (202) 663-6670 DOT Analyst: Linda Lundell (202) 366-2336 Robert Papkin (Mexicana) (202) 626-6601 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted (subject to conditions and remarks, see below) The above action, granting exemption authority to United was effective when taken: _June 20, 2002, through _June 20, 2004. The above action, granting a statement of authorization to Mexicana was effective when taken: June 20, 2002, and will remain in effect indefinitely, subject to the conditions below. Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted is consistent with the aviation agreement between the United States and Mexico. Except to the extent exempted or waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX United’s certificates of public convenience and necessity XX Mexicana’s foreign air carrier permit XX Standard Exemption Condtions for United (attached) (See next page) 2 Conditions/Remarks: The U.S.-Mexico exemption authority granted to United is subject to the dormancy notice requirements set forth in condition 7 of Appendix A of Order 88-10-2. The exemption authority granted to United to serve the Sacramento-Guadalajara and Denver-Mexico City markets is limited to operations conducted on a code-share basis only. The Statement of Authorization granted Mexicana is subject to the following conditions: The statement of authorization will remain in effect only as long as United and Mexicana continue to hold the underlying authority to operate the code-share services at issue, and the code-share agreement providing for the code-share operations remains in effect. United and Mexicana must promptly notify the Department (Office of International Aviation) if the code-share agreement is no longer effective or if the carriers decide to cease operating all of a portion of the approved code-share services. (Such notice should be filed in Docket OST-2002-12502.) The code-sharing operations conducted under this authority must comply with 14 CFR 257 and with any amendment to the Department’s regulations concerning code-share arrangements that may be adopted. Notwithstanding any provisions in the contract between the carriers, our approval here is expressly conditioned upon the requirements that the subject foreign air transportation be sold in the name of the carrier holding out such service in computer reservation systems and elsewhere; that the carrier selling such transportation (i.e., the carrier shown on the ticket) accept responsibility for the entirety of the code-share journey for all obligations established in its contract of carriage with the passenger; and that the passenger liability of the operating carrier be unaffected. Further, the operating carrier shall not permit the code of its U.S. code-sharing carrier to be carried on any flight that enters, departs, or transits the airspace of any area for whose airspace the Federal Aviation Administration has issued a flight prohibition. The authority granted here is specifically conditioned so that neither United nor Mexicana shall give any force or effect to any contractual provisions between themselves that are contrary to these conditions. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted at any time without hearing, at our discretion. We acted on this application without awaiting expiration of the 15-day answer period with the consent of all parties served. On the basis of data officially noticeable under Rule 24(g) of the Department’s regulations, we found the applicant qualified to provide the services authorized. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the application was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp APPENDIX A U.S. CARRIER Standard Exemption Conditions In the conduct of operations authorized by the attached notice, the applicant(s) shall: (1) Hold at all times effective operating authority from the government of each country served; (2) Comply with applicable requirements concerning oversales contained in 14 CFR 250 (for scheduled operations, if authorized); (3) Comply with the requirements for reporting data contained in 14 CFR 241; (4) Comply with requirements for minimum insurance coverage, and for certifying that coverage to the Department, contained in 14 CFR 205; (5) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (6) Comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations, and with all U.S. Government requirements concerning security; and (7) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department of Transportation, with all applicable orders and regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. The authority granted shall be effective only during the period when the holder is in compliance with the conditions imposed above. We expect this notification to be received within 10 days of such non-effectiveness or of such decision.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.180664
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12502-0003/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12683-0006-0001
Notice
"2002-08-01T04:00:00"
Notice
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Docket: OST-2002-12683 Served: August 1, 2002 NOTICE By Order 2002-6-20, the Department instituted the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding to select a carrier for an authorization to be designated to serve the U.S.-Brazil all-cargo market and for allocation of four U.S.-Brazil all-cargo frequencies under the U.S.-Brazil aviation agreement. The instituting order established a procedural schedule for the submission of evidentiary material needed by the Department to make its selection(s), as follows: Applications by July 19, 2002; Direct Exhibits by August 2; Rebuttal Exhibits by August 16; and Briefs by August 30. Gemini Air Cargo, Evergreen International Airlines, and Amerijet International filed applications for the available authorization and an allocation of frequencies. On July 31, 2002, Amerijet filed a letter in the above-captioned docket, served on all parties as well as Federal Express, United Parcel Service, and Atlas Air/Polar Air Cargo, requesting that the Department require each all-cargo carrier currently designated to provide service in the U.S.-Brazil market (Federal Express, UPS, and Atlas/Polar) to submit, by no later than August 9, a complete description of their services in the U.S.-Brazil market for the period June 1, 2001 through May 31, 2002. In the alternative, Amerijet states that the incumbent carriers may agree to voluntarily submit the requested information for the record of the case. We will treat Amerijet’s letter as a motion under our regulations (14 CFR Part 302.11), which would normally allow seven days for answers (i.e., August 9). However, to ensure that the issues raised by Amerijet’s letter are addressed in an expedited manner, we will require that answers to Amerijet’s letter be filed in the above-referenced docket by Monday, August 5, 2002. Any replies shall be filed by Tuesday, August 6, 2002. We will authorize service of documents by facsimile and by electronic mail. Carriers that are interested in such service, however, should state if they want service by email and should provide interested parties with their fax number and/or email address. We will serve this notice on Gemini Air Cargo, Inc.; Evergreen International Airlines, Inc.; Amerijet International, Inc.; Federal Express Corporation; United Parcel Service Co.; and Atlas Air, Inc. By: Paul L. Gretch Director, Office of International Aviation (Seal) Dated: August 1, 2002 An electronic version of this order is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_ aviation.asp PAGE PAGE 2
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.186698
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12683-0006-0001/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12683-0006-0002
Notice
"2002-08-01T04:00:00"
Notice
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Docket: OST-2002-12683 Served: August 1, 2002 NOTICE By Order 2002-6-20, the Department instituted the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding to select a carrier for an authorization to be designated to serve the U.S.-Brazil all-cargo market and for allocation of four U.S.-Brazil all-cargo frequencies under the U.S.-Brazil aviation agreement. The instituting order established a procedural schedule for the submission of evidentiary material needed by the Department to make its selection(s), as follows: Applications by July 19, 2002; Direct Exhibits by August 2; Rebuttal Exhibits by August 16; and Briefs by August 30. Gemini Air Cargo, Evergreen International Airlines, and Amerijet International filed applications for the available authorization and an allocation of frequencies. On July 31, 2002, Amerijet filed a letter in the above-captioned docket, served on all parties as well as Federal Express, United Parcel Service, and Atlas Air/Polar Air Cargo, requesting that the Department require each all-cargo carrier currently designated to provide service in the U.S.-Brazil market (Federal Express, UPS, and Atlas/Polar) to submit, by no later than August 9, a complete description of their services in the U.S.-Brazil market for the period June 1, 2001 through May 31, 2002. In the alternative, Amerijet states that the incumbent carriers may agree to voluntarily submit the requested information for the record of the case. We will treat Amerijet’s letter as a motion under our regulations (14 CFR Part 302.11), which would normally allow seven days for answers (i.e., August 9). However, to ensure that the issues raised by Amerijet’s letter are addressed in an expedited manner, we will require that answers to Amerijet’s letter be filed in the above-referenced docket by Monday, August 5, 2002. Any replies shall be filed by Tuesday, August 6, 2002. We will authorize service of documents by facsimile and by electronic mail. Carriers that are interested in such service, however, should state if they want service by email and should provide interested parties with their fax number and/or email address. We will serve this notice on Gemini Air Cargo, Inc.; Evergreen International Airlines, Inc.; Amerijet International, Inc.; Federal Express Corporation; United Parcel Service Co.; and Atlas Air, Inc. By: Paul L. Gretch Director, Office of International Aviation (Seal) Dated: August 1, 2002 An electronic version of this order is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_ aviation.asp PAGE PAGE 2
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.189184
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12683-0006-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12683-0015-0001
Notice
"2002-08-07T04:00:00"
Notice - In the Matter of the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Docket: OST-2002-12683 Served: August 7, 2002 NOTICE In the Matter of the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding SUMMARY By this Notice, we have decided to decline to require that incumbent U.S.-Brazil all-cargo carriers report on their U.S.-Brazil frequency utilization in the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding, Docket OST-2002-12683. DISCUSSION AND SUMMARY OF PLEADINGS By Order 2002-6-20, the Department instituted the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding to select a carrier for an authorization to be designated to serve the U.S.-Brazil all-cargo market and for allocation of four U.S.-Brazil all-cargo frequencies under the U.S.-Brazil aviation agreement. The instituting order established a procedural schedule for the submission of evidentiary material needed by the Department to make its selection(s), as follows: Applications by July 19, 2002; Direct Exhibits by August 2; Rebuttal Exhibits by August 16; and Briefs by August 30. Gemini Air Cargo, Evergreen International Airlines, and Amerijet International filed applications for the available authorization and an allocation of frequencies. On July 31, 2002, Amerijet filed a letter in the above-captioned docket requesting that the Department require each all-cargo carrier currently designated to provide service in the U.S.-Brazil market (Federal Express, UPS, and Atlas/Polar) to submit, by no later than August 9, a complete description of their services in the U.S.-Brazil market for the period June 1, 2001 through May 31, 2002. In the alternative, Amerijet states that the incumbent carriers may agree to voluntarily submit the requested information for the record of the case. By Notice dated August 1, 2002, in this Docket, we stated that we would treat Amerijet’s letter as a motion, and we required that answers to Amerijet’s letter be filed by August 5, 2002 and replies by August 6, 2002. Atlas/Polar and Evergreen filed answers. UPS, Amerijet, and Atlas/Polar filed replies. In general, Atlas/Polar and UPS are opposed to Amerijet’s request whereas Evergreen supports the request. In its letter, Amerijet states that a relevant consideration in this or any other route proceeding is the degree to which incumbent carriers are and have been using frequencies allocated to them. Amerijet maintains that neither the Department nor the applicants in this case currently have access to that information, and that the T-100 reports do not allow the parties to determine completely and accurately the extent to which the incumbent carriers are and have been using their frequencies. Amerijet further indicates that dormancy information with respect to frequency utilization is unreliable. Amerijet states that the Department’s instituting order appears to have recognized this issue when it required that any incumbent carrier applicant include a complete description of its services in the market. In this regard, Amerijet notes that this information was not submitted since none of the incumbent carriers applied for additional frequencies. To help minimize any burden on the incumbent carriers, Amerijet requests that the incumbents submit the requested information by August 9, one week after directs and one week before rebuttals are due in this proceeding. Atlas/Polar state that Amerijet’s own letter indicates that the T-100 reports for the U.S.-Brazil market are available to all applicants in the proceeding, and that Amerijet has failed to specify the manner in which these T-100 reports are inadequate or how the information that Amerijet seeks would enhance the record of the proceeding. Moreover, Atlas/Polar contend that Amerijet’s request expresses only a vague, general interest in determining U.S.-Brazil frequency usage, which does not validate the request for new information requirements. Atlas/Polar further argue that incumbent carrier frequencies are beyond the scope of the proceeding. In this connection, Atlas/Polar state that this case arose because the Department decided to replace Polar’s Brazil designation and reallocate its four frequencies. Atlas/Polar also note that the instituting order allowed for petitions for reconsideration, and none were filed. UPS argues that Amerijet’s request harkens back to the time of strict regulation when incumbents were required to provide extensive information about their existing services. UPS states that the burden of producing the data, when viewed in relation to its complete lack of relevance to the proceeding, warrants a denial of the request. UPS maintains that any information regarding frequency usage, aircraft routings, schedules, etc. has no bearing whatsoever on this proceeding since none of the applicants has requested any frequencies now held by incumbents. UPS also notes that it is too late in this proceeding for the requested information to be of use to the applicants, and that questions concerning confidentiality and business sensitive information need to be considered. Evergreen states that it supports Amerijet’s request, and that information concerning existing services could prove useful to the Department and the parties in this proceeding. Evergreen maintains that specific issues such as the need for service to intermediate points and interior U.S. points justify the filing of the requested information even though incumbents do not seek to increase Brazil service. Evergreen urges the Department to require incumbents to provide operational information by month and by direction and to identify all Brazilian, U.S., and third-country points in their single-plane, U.S.-Brazil scheduled services for the period June 1, 2001 to May 31, 2002. Evergreen indicates that the Department required similar information by its June 21, 2000 Notice in the last U.S.-Brazil all-cargo proceeding. In its reply, Atlas/Polar state that Evergreen’s support of Amerijet’s request similarly makes no claim that incumbent operational data would affect the applicants’ service proposals or the Department’s decision in any way. While the Department required the submission of U.S.-Brazil all-cargo frequency utilization data two years ago, Atlas/Polar maintain that that precedent is not relevant here because there has been no suggestion (let alone proof) that the incumbents have not been using their frequencies, as was the case two years ago. Atlas/Polar note that the Department has already determined that Polar’s designation and four frequencies will be the issue of the current Brazil proceeding. In its reply, Amerijet states that historical precedent shows that in virtually every proceeding where the issuance of additional certificates is at issue, the incumbent carrier(s) are called upon to provide data with respect to the market(s) at issue. Amerijet maintains that if, as Atlas/Polar suggest, the T-100 reports are sufficient, then incumbent carriers would never be called upon to submit market information in route proceedings. According to Amerijet, it and the other applicants in this case must be able to examine market information in the possession of Atlas/Polar, FedEx, and UPS in order to best determine the nature of the need for additional service in the relevant market and sub-markets. Amerijet states that if, for example, the wide-body operators in the market are not and have not been fully utilizing frequencies, it is far more likely that the Department would support the selection of a carrier such as Amerijet, which would not simply add new additional capacity between major terminals, but would expand its base scheduled system in the region into Brazil. DECISION This proceeding began shortly after the Department approved a de facto route transfer between Atlas and Polar, but did not approve the transfer of Polar’s Brazil designation and four frequencies. The Department found that the transaction with respect to Polar’s Brazil authority would not be consistent with the public interest, as it would have resulted in half of the four available designations for all-cargo service and over half of the 24 available frequencies in the U.S.-Brazil market being under single corporate control. Against this background, the Department subsequently instituted the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding in this docket to select a carrier for an authorization to be designated to serve the U.S.-Brazil all-cargo market and for allocation of four U.S.-Brazil all-cargo frequencies under the U.S.-Brazil aviation agreement. The scope of the authority at issue was already well known at the time we instituted this case. In the circumstances presented, the instituting order did not include a general requirement that incumbent U.S.-Brazil all-cargo carriers report a complete description of their services in the market. Such a requirement would apply only to incumbents choosing to apply for an allocation of additional frequencies. Clearly, the Department would want to know how such an applicant had been using its own allocation before deciding on whether to award that applicant additional frequencies. However, each applicant in this case (Gemini, Evergreen, and Amerijet) is a non-incumbent carrier applying for the available designation and an allocation of frequencies. Neither Amerijet nor Evergreen has presented any persuasive reason why it needs incumbent carrier data in order to make its affirmative case in this proceeding. Indeed, Amerijet’s own request only contemplated that the incumbent carrier data be submitted one week after the direct exhibits in this case were due. In these circumstances, we are not persuaded that the Department should require incumbent U.S.-Brazil all-cargo carriers to report on their current services in the market. We believe that such a requirement is unnecessary in this case, and we continue to believe that the applicants and the Department have access to the relevant information needed for, respectively, prosecuting and deciding this proceeding. For these reasons, we have decided that the public interest would be best served here by declining to require that incumbent carriers report on their U.S.-Brazil frequency utilization in this docket. We will serve this notice on Gemini Air Cargo, Inc.; Evergreen International Airlines, Inc.; Amerijet International, Inc.; Federal Express Corporation; United Parcel Service Co.; and Atlas Air, Inc./Polar Air Cargo, Inc. By: Paul L. Gretch Director, Office of International Aviation (Seal) Dated: August 7, 2002 An electronic version of this order is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_ aviation.asp On August 6, 2002, Amerijet filed a separate motion requesting that the Department issue an order directing Gemini and Evergreen to produce copies of their respective applications reportedly filed with the Air Transportation Stabilization Board seeking Federal loan guarantees pursuant to the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act, together with copies of all other related or supportive documents. Amerijet’s motion requests that the Department shorten the answer period to its motion. Our regulations (14 CFR Part 302.11) would normally allow seven days for answers (i.e., Thursday, August 15). However, to ensure that the issues raised by Amerijet’s letter are addressed in an expedited manner, we will require that answers to Amerijet’s motion be filed in the above-referenced docket by Friday, August 9, 2002. Any replies shall be filed by Monday, August 12, 2002. See Order 2002-5-24. Atlas and Polar had reached an agreement under which the two carriers would be owned by the same company but continue to operate as separate airlines. PAGE PAGE 4
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.191174
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12683-0015-0001/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12683-0015-0002
Notice
"2002-08-07T04:00:00"
Notice - In the Matter of the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Docket: OST-2002-12683 Served: August 7, 2002 NOTICE In the Matter of the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding SUMMARY By this Notice, we have decided to decline to require that incumbent U.S.-Brazil all-cargo carriers report on their U.S.-Brazil frequency utilization in the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding, Docket OST-2002-12683. DISCUSSION AND SUMMARY OF PLEADINGS By Order 2002-6-20, the Department instituted the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding to select a carrier for an authorization to be designated to serve the U.S.-Brazil all-cargo market and for allocation of four U.S.-Brazil all-cargo frequencies under the U.S.-Brazil aviation agreement. The instituting order established a procedural schedule for the submission of evidentiary material needed by the Department to make its selection(s), as follows: Applications by July 19, 2002; Direct Exhibits by August 2; Rebuttal Exhibits by August 16; and Briefs by August 30. Gemini Air Cargo, Evergreen International Airlines, and Amerijet International filed applications for the available authorization and an allocation of frequencies. On July 31, 2002, Amerijet filed a letter in the above-captioned docket requesting that the Department require each all-cargo carrier currently designated to provide service in the U.S.-Brazil market (Federal Express, UPS, and Atlas/Polar) to submit, by no later than August 9, a complete description of their services in the U.S.-Brazil market for the period June 1, 2001 through May 31, 2002. In the alternative, Amerijet states that the incumbent carriers may agree to voluntarily submit the requested information for the record of the case. By Notice dated August 1, 2002, in this Docket, we stated that we would treat Amerijet’s letter as a motion, and we required that answers to Amerijet’s letter be filed by August 5, 2002 and replies by August 6, 2002. Atlas/Polar and Evergreen filed answers. UPS, Amerijet, and Atlas/Polar filed replies. In general, Atlas/Polar and UPS are opposed to Amerijet’s request whereas Evergreen supports the request. In its letter, Amerijet states that a relevant consideration in this or any other route proceeding is the degree to which incumbent carriers are and have been using frequencies allocated to them. Amerijet maintains that neither the Department nor the applicants in this case currently have access to that information, and that the T-100 reports do not allow the parties to determine completely and accurately the extent to which the incumbent carriers are and have been using their frequencies. Amerijet further indicates that dormancy information with respect to frequency utilization is unreliable. Amerijet states that the Department’s instituting order appears to have recognized this issue when it required that any incumbent carrier applicant include a complete description of its services in the market. In this regard, Amerijet notes that this information was not submitted since none of the incumbent carriers applied for additional frequencies. To help minimize any burden on the incumbent carriers, Amerijet requests that the incumbents submit the requested information by August 9, one week after directs and one week before rebuttals are due in this proceeding. Atlas/Polar state that Amerijet’s own letter indicates that the T-100 reports for the U.S.-Brazil market are available to all applicants in the proceeding, and that Amerijet has failed to specify the manner in which these T-100 reports are inadequate or how the information that Amerijet seeks would enhance the record of the proceeding. Moreover, Atlas/Polar contend that Amerijet’s request expresses only a vague, general interest in determining U.S.-Brazil frequency usage, which does not validate the request for new information requirements. Atlas/Polar further argue that incumbent carrier frequencies are beyond the scope of the proceeding. In this connection, Atlas/Polar state that this case arose because the Department decided to replace Polar’s Brazil designation and reallocate its four frequencies. Atlas/Polar also note that the instituting order allowed for petitions for reconsideration, and none were filed. UPS argues that Amerijet’s request harkens back to the time of strict regulation when incumbents were required to provide extensive information about their existing services. UPS states that the burden of producing the data, when viewed in relation to its complete lack of relevance to the proceeding, warrants a denial of the request. UPS maintains that any information regarding frequency usage, aircraft routings, schedules, etc. has no bearing whatsoever on this proceeding since none of the applicants has requested any frequencies now held by incumbents. UPS also notes that it is too late in this proceeding for the requested information to be of use to the applicants, and that questions concerning confidentiality and business sensitive information need to be considered. Evergreen states that it supports Amerijet’s request, and that information concerning existing services could prove useful to the Department and the parties in this proceeding. Evergreen maintains that specific issues such as the need for service to intermediate points and interior U.S. points justify the filing of the requested information even though incumbents do not seek to increase Brazil service. Evergreen urges the Department to require incumbents to provide operational information by month and by direction and to identify all Brazilian, U.S., and third-country points in their single-plane, U.S.-Brazil scheduled services for the period June 1, 2001 to May 31, 2002. Evergreen indicates that the Department required similar information by its June 21, 2000 Notice in the last U.S.-Brazil all-cargo proceeding. In its reply, Atlas/Polar state that Evergreen’s support of Amerijet’s request similarly makes no claim that incumbent operational data would affect the applicants’ service proposals or the Department’s decision in any way. While the Department required the submission of U.S.-Brazil all-cargo frequency utilization data two years ago, Atlas/Polar maintain that that precedent is not relevant here because there has been no suggestion (let alone proof) that the incumbents have not been using their frequencies, as was the case two years ago. Atlas/Polar note that the Department has already determined that Polar’s designation and four frequencies will be the issue of the current Brazil proceeding. In its reply, Amerijet states that historical precedent shows that in virtually every proceeding where the issuance of additional certificates is at issue, the incumbent carrier(s) are called upon to provide data with respect to the market(s) at issue. Amerijet maintains that if, as Atlas/Polar suggest, the T-100 reports are sufficient, then incumbent carriers would never be called upon to submit market information in route proceedings. According to Amerijet, it and the other applicants in this case must be able to examine market information in the possession of Atlas/Polar, FedEx, and UPS in order to best determine the nature of the need for additional service in the relevant market and sub-markets. Amerijet states that if, for example, the wide-body operators in the market are not and have not been fully utilizing frequencies, it is far more likely that the Department would support the selection of a carrier such as Amerijet, which would not simply add new additional capacity between major terminals, but would expand its base scheduled system in the region into Brazil. DECISION This proceeding began shortly after the Department approved a de facto route transfer between Atlas and Polar, but did not approve the transfer of Polar’s Brazil designation and four frequencies. The Department found that the transaction with respect to Polar’s Brazil authority would not be consistent with the public interest, as it would have resulted in half of the four available designations for all-cargo service and over half of the 24 available frequencies in the U.S.-Brazil market being under single corporate control. Against this background, the Department subsequently instituted the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding in this docket to select a carrier for an authorization to be designated to serve the U.S.-Brazil all-cargo market and for allocation of four U.S.-Brazil all-cargo frequencies under the U.S.-Brazil aviation agreement. The scope of the authority at issue was already well known at the time we instituted this case. In the circumstances presented, the instituting order did not include a general requirement that incumbent U.S.-Brazil all-cargo carriers report a complete description of their services in the market. Such a requirement would apply only to incumbents choosing to apply for an allocation of additional frequencies. Clearly, the Department would want to know how such an applicant had been using its own allocation before deciding on whether to award that applicant additional frequencies. However, each applicant in this case (Gemini, Evergreen, and Amerijet) is a non-incumbent carrier applying for the available designation and an allocation of frequencies. Neither Amerijet nor Evergreen has presented any persuasive reason why it needs incumbent carrier data in order to make its affirmative case in this proceeding. Indeed, Amerijet’s own request only contemplated that the incumbent carrier data be submitted one week after the direct exhibits in this case were due. In these circumstances, we are not persuaded that the Department should require incumbent U.S.-Brazil all-cargo carriers to report on their current services in the market. We believe that such a requirement is unnecessary in this case, and we continue to believe that the applicants and the Department have access to the relevant information needed for, respectively, prosecuting and deciding this proceeding. For these reasons, we have decided that the public interest would be best served here by declining to require that incumbent carriers report on their U.S.-Brazil frequency utilization in this docket. We will serve this notice on Gemini Air Cargo, Inc.; Evergreen International Airlines, Inc.; Amerijet International, Inc.; Federal Express Corporation; United Parcel Service Co.; and Atlas Air, Inc./Polar Air Cargo, Inc. By: Paul L. Gretch Director, Office of International Aviation (Seal) Dated: August 7, 2002 An electronic version of this order is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_ aviation.asp On August 6, 2002, Amerijet filed a separate motion requesting that the Department issue an order directing Gemini and Evergreen to produce copies of their respective applications reportedly filed with the Air Transportation Stabilization Board seeking Federal loan guarantees pursuant to the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act, together with copies of all other related or supportive documents. Amerijet’s motion requests that the Department shorten the answer period to its motion. Our regulations (14 CFR Part 302.11) would normally allow seven days for answers (i.e., Thursday, August 15). However, to ensure that the issues raised by Amerijet’s letter are addressed in an expedited manner, we will require that answers to Amerijet’s motion be filed in the above-referenced docket by Friday, August 9, 2002. Any replies shall be filed by Monday, August 12, 2002. See Order 2002-5-24. Atlas and Polar had reached an agreement under which the two carriers would be owned by the same company but continue to operate as separate airlines. PAGE PAGE 4
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.195742
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12683-0015-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12683-0021-0001
Notice
"2002-08-16T04:00:00"
Notice-2002 U.S. Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Docket: OST-2002-12683 Served: August 16, 2002 NOTICE In the Matter of the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding SUMMARY By this Notice, we have decided to deny the request of Amerijet International that Gemini Air Cargo and Evergreen Airlines International submit in this docket copies of any applications and supporting documents filed with the Air Transportation Stabilization Board seeking Federal loan guarantees. DISCUSSION AND SUMMARY OF PLEADINGS By Order 2002-6-20, the Department instituted the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding to select a carrier for an authorization to be designated to serve the U.S.-Brazil all-cargo market and for allocation of four U.S.-Brazil all-cargo frequencies under the U.S.-Brazil aviation agreement. The instituting order established a procedural schedule for the submission of evidentiary material needed by the Department to make its selection(s), as follows: Applications by July 19, 2002; Direct Exhibits by August 2; Rebuttal Exhibits by August 16; and Briefs by August 30. Gemini Air Cargo, Evergreen International Airlines, and Amerijet International filed applications for the available authorization and an allocation of frequencies. On August 6, 2002, Amerijet filed a motion requesting that the Department issue an order directing Gemini and Evergreen to produce copies of their respective applications reportedly filed with the Air Transportation Stabilization Board seeking Federal loan guarantees pursuant to the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act, together with copies of all other related or supportive documents. Evergreen and Gemini filed answers opposing Amerijet’s request and Amerijet filed a reply. In its motion, Amerijet states that neither Gemini nor Evergreen submitted any financial statements as part of their direct exhibits in the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding. In support of its motion, Amerijet asserts that the Department and the applicants must have access to this information if the proceeding is to be conducted fairly and on the basis of a complete record. Amerijet maintains that the requested information is relevant because it relates to the fitness determination that the Department must make prior to issuing certificates pursuant to the award of new route authority. Moreover, Amerijet argues that it would be hard to imagine how the Department could issue certificates to either applicant if the proposed operations are in any way dependent upon receipt of Federally subsidized loan guarantees. Evergreen states that Amerijet’s motion demonstrates a complete lack of understanding of the rationale for the establishment of the Air Transportation Stabilization Board (ATSB). The ATSB, according to Evergreen, is not a bankruptcy court, and the underlying purpose of the law that created the ATSB is to foster and develop airlines that have every intention of continuing safe and commercially viable operations. Evergreen argues that the fact that Evergreen is seeking loan guarantees does not bring into question the financial health of the company and, consequently, there is no basis for providing any of the ATSB filings that Amerjiet has requested for the record of this proceeding. Evergreen notes that since the filing of its ATSB application, the Department has twice found the company fit to conduct its operations. In addition, Evergreen states that neither the Department nor the applicants in recent route cases have indicated a need for the type of financial review that Amerijet has requested here. Gemini states that the information it has provided to the ATSB is confidential and relates solely to ATSB matters and ATSB requirements, distinct from the Department’s regulatory jurisdiction. Gemini maintains that the Department regularly takes notice of Form 41 information filed by carriers to update fitness determinations in route proceedings such as the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding at issue here. In addition, Gemini argues that Amerijet’s motion seems to be designed to obstruct rather than facilitate the proceeding at hand, especially in light of the fact that Amerijet filed its motion long after petitions for reconsideration were due in this docket. In its reply, Amerijet notes that both Evergreen and Gemini concede that there is no information in their applications or direct exhibits regarding their financial fitness. Amerijet also notes that neither Evergreen nor Gemini disputes that the production of such information would not constitute a significant burden. Amerijet argues that its request for information is timely because it could not have known what financial information Evergreen and Gemini would submit to the Department until the direct exhibits were filed in this case. It further argues that financial fitness and ability are always a relevant consideration in a certification proceeding and that the information presented to the ATSB is well suited for the purposes of determining fitness and ability. Amerijet maintains that such information could also shed light on an applicant’s ability to inaugurate and maintain service as well as on possible structural changes that the applicant might be required to undertake. Finally, Amerijet argues that Evergreen’s suggestion that earlier Department fitness findings make submission of ATSB filings unnecessary is without merit because Evergreen fails to explain whether the fitness findings were based upon financial information similar to that provided to the ATSB. DECISION We have decided to deny Amerijet’s request. The mere fact that Evergreen and Gemini have filed applications before the ATSB in no way in and of itself calls into question the financial fitness of either carrier. Nor was the material requested to be submitted under the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act intended to address the question of an air carrier’s fitness to obtain or hold economic authority under Section 41101 of our Act. In these circumstances, we believe that the evidence we have already required to be submitted in this proceeding, along with data officially noticeable under rule 24(g) of the Department’s regulations, will be adequate for us to make any fitness findings that may be necessary. Accordingly, we will not require that Gemini and Evergreen submit copies of any applications and supporting documents filed with the Air Transportation Stabilization Board seeking Federal loan guarantees. We will serve this notice on Gemini Air Cargo, Inc.; Evergreen International Airlines, Inc.; and Amerijet International, Inc. By: Paul L. Gretch Director, Office of International Aviation (Seal) Dated: August 16, 2002 An electronic version of this order is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_ aviation.asp Amerijet states that it did not mean to suggest in its motion that applicants before a bankruptcy court and the ATSB are in the same position. However, Amerijet contends that the two situations are not mutually exclusive either, as demonstrated by the case of U.S. Airways. Amerijet further indicates that its own reorganization was a public process, and that the materials produced by Amerijet are publicly available. In addition, Amerijet notes that its direct exhibits were not silent with respect to its reorganization or other pertinent financial information. PAGE PAGE 2
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.197822
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12683-0021-0001/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12683-0021-0002
Notice
"2002-08-16T04:00:00"
Notice-2002 U.S. Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Docket: OST-2002-12683 Served: August 16, 2002 NOTICE In the Matter of the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding SUMMARY By this Notice, we have decided to deny the request of Amerijet International that Gemini Air Cargo and Evergreen Airlines International submit in this docket copies of any applications and supporting documents filed with the Air Transportation Stabilization Board seeking Federal loan guarantees. DISCUSSION AND SUMMARY OF PLEADINGS By Order 2002-6-20, the Department instituted the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding to select a carrier for an authorization to be designated to serve the U.S.-Brazil all-cargo market and for allocation of four U.S.-Brazil all-cargo frequencies under the U.S.-Brazil aviation agreement. The instituting order established a procedural schedule for the submission of evidentiary material needed by the Department to make its selection(s), as follows: Applications by July 19, 2002; Direct Exhibits by August 2; Rebuttal Exhibits by August 16; and Briefs by August 30. Gemini Air Cargo, Evergreen International Airlines, and Amerijet International filed applications for the available authorization and an allocation of frequencies. On August 6, 2002, Amerijet filed a motion requesting that the Department issue an order directing Gemini and Evergreen to produce copies of their respective applications reportedly filed with the Air Transportation Stabilization Board seeking Federal loan guarantees pursuant to the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act, together with copies of all other related or supportive documents. Evergreen and Gemini filed answers opposing Amerijet’s request and Amerijet filed a reply. In its motion, Amerijet states that neither Gemini nor Evergreen submitted any financial statements as part of their direct exhibits in the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding. In support of its motion, Amerijet asserts that the Department and the applicants must have access to this information if the proceeding is to be conducted fairly and on the basis of a complete record. Amerijet maintains that the requested information is relevant because it relates to the fitness determination that the Department must make prior to issuing certificates pursuant to the award of new route authority. Moreover, Amerijet argues that it would be hard to imagine how the Department could issue certificates to either applicant if the proposed operations are in any way dependent upon receipt of Federally subsidized loan guarantees. Evergreen states that Amerijet’s motion demonstrates a complete lack of understanding of the rationale for the establishment of the Air Transportation Stabilization Board (ATSB). The ATSB, according to Evergreen, is not a bankruptcy court, and the underlying purpose of the law that created the ATSB is to foster and develop airlines that have every intention of continuing safe and commercially viable operations. Evergreen argues that the fact that Evergreen is seeking loan guarantees does not bring into question the financial health of the company and, consequently, there is no basis for providing any of the ATSB filings that Amerjiet has requested for the record of this proceeding. Evergreen notes that since the filing of its ATSB application, the Department has twice found the company fit to conduct its operations. In addition, Evergreen states that neither the Department nor the applicants in recent route cases have indicated a need for the type of financial review that Amerijet has requested here. Gemini states that the information it has provided to the ATSB is confidential and relates solely to ATSB matters and ATSB requirements, distinct from the Department’s regulatory jurisdiction. Gemini maintains that the Department regularly takes notice of Form 41 information filed by carriers to update fitness determinations in route proceedings such as the 2002 U.S.-Brazil All-Cargo Service Proceeding at issue here. In addition, Gemini argues that Amerijet’s motion seems to be designed to obstruct rather than facilitate the proceeding at hand, especially in light of the fact that Amerijet filed its motion long after petitions for reconsideration were due in this docket. In its reply, Amerijet notes that both Evergreen and Gemini concede that there is no information in their applications or direct exhibits regarding their financial fitness. Amerijet also notes that neither Evergreen nor Gemini disputes that the production of such information would not constitute a significant burden. Amerijet argues that its request for information is timely because it could not have known what financial information Evergreen and Gemini would submit to the Department until the direct exhibits were filed in this case. It further argues that financial fitness and ability are always a relevant consideration in a certification proceeding and that the information presented to the ATSB is well suited for the purposes of determining fitness and ability. Amerijet maintains that such information could also shed light on an applicant’s ability to inaugurate and maintain service as well as on possible structural changes that the applicant might be required to undertake. Finally, Amerijet argues that Evergreen’s suggestion that earlier Department fitness findings make submission of ATSB filings unnecessary is without merit because Evergreen fails to explain whether the fitness findings were based upon financial information similar to that provided to the ATSB. DECISION We have decided to deny Amerijet’s request. The mere fact that Evergreen and Gemini have filed applications before the ATSB in no way in and of itself calls into question the financial fitness of either carrier. Nor was the material requested to be submitted under the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act intended to address the question of an air carrier’s fitness to obtain or hold economic authority under Section 41101 of our Act. In these circumstances, we believe that the evidence we have already required to be submitted in this proceeding, along with data officially noticeable under rule 24(g) of the Department’s regulations, will be adequate for us to make any fitness findings that may be necessary. Accordingly, we will not require that Gemini and Evergreen submit copies of any applications and supporting documents filed with the Air Transportation Stabilization Board seeking Federal loan guarantees. We will serve this notice on Gemini Air Cargo, Inc.; Evergreen International Airlines, Inc.; and Amerijet International, Inc. By: Paul L. Gretch Director, Office of International Aviation (Seal) Dated: August 16, 2002 An electronic version of this order is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_ aviation.asp Amerijet states that it did not mean to suggest in its motion that applicants before a bankruptcy court and the ATSB are in the same position. However, Amerijet contends that the two situations are not mutually exclusive either, as demonstrated by the case of U.S. Airways. Amerijet further indicates that its own reorganization was a public process, and that the materials produced by Amerijet are publicly available. In addition, Amerijet notes that its direct exhibits were not silent with respect to its reorganization or other pertinent financial information. PAGE PAGE 2
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.201049
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12683-0021-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12688-0006
Notice
"2002-07-29T04:00:00"
Notice Establishing Procedural Dates
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Served: July 29, 2002 Joint Application of American Airlines, Inc. and Swiss International Air Lines Ltd. for Approval of and Antitrust Immunity for Alliance Agreement under 49 U.S.C. §§ 41308 and 41309 (Docket OST-2002-12688) NOTICE ESTABLISHING PROCEDURAL DATES On June 28, 2002, American Airlines and its affiliates and Swiss International Air Lines Ltd. filed a joint application requesting approval of and antitrust immunity for (1) a cooperative agreement (Exhibit JA-1), and (2) all agreements among the applicants that implement any part of the cooperative agreement or are entered into by the applicants under the cooperative agreement (hereafter the “Alliance Agreement”). On June 28, the applicants filed a joint Motion under 14 C.F.R. 302.12 (Rule 12) of our regulations seeking confidential treatment for supporting documents and information. On July 2, American Airlines, Inc. filed a supplementary Motion under 14 C.F.R. 302.12 (Rule 12) of our regulations seeking confidential treatment for additional documents and information. Both Motions state that this material is proprietary, commercially sensitive, and confidential in nature which qualifies for being withheld from public disclosure. The applicants ask that access to this material be limited to counsel and outside experts for interested parties. We have now finished our initial review. We find the application is now substantially complete. We will require that answers to the application be filed no later than 21 calendar days from the issue date of this Notice, and that replies be filed no later than 7 business days after the last day for filing an answer. We shall serve this notice on all persons on the service list for this docket. By: READ C. VAN DE WATER Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (SEAL) An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov/search Specifically, TWA Airlines LLC; American Eagle Airlines, Inc.; and Executive Airlines, Inc. d/b/a American Eagle. Answers to the Motion were due on July 10. The Motion is unopposed. See Joint Motions at 1. We will rule on the merits of the Rule 12 Motion by subsequent order. By Notice dated July 10, we granted immediate interim access to all documents covered by the applicants’ Motion, or to any subsequent materials that may be filed confidentially in this proceeding, to counsel and outside experts for interested parties, consistent with conditions agreed to by the Joint Applicants and imposed by the Department in similar recent cases. At the same time, we suspended the procedural schedule of this case, pending a determination of completeness. We reserve the right to require the filing of additional information deemed relevant to the proceeding at any time. PAGE PAGE 2
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.203244
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12688-0006/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12691-0002
Notice
"2002-07-01T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Cargo Airline
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on July 1, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-12691 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Cargo Airline Date Filed: June 28, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption pursuant to 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) to permit it to operate one one-way cargo charter flight between Philadelphia, PA, and Moffet Field, CA, on/about July 3, 2002, using its AN-124 aircraft, to transport outsized cargo consisting of one NIMIQ-2 Satellite and associated equipment, on behalf of Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems. The applicant stated that Lockheed Martin required urgent delivery of the satellite to complete final assembly and mission integration activities in order to meet scheduled shipment deadlines to Cape Canaveral for subsequent launch processing; that the cargo is too large for transportation on U.S. carrier aircraft; and that surface transportation is not feasible because of the time involved, the adverse effect a long road trip could have on the high-value cargo, and the cargo’s size and highway oversized load restrictions. Applicant representative: Glenn Wicks 202-457-7790 Responsive pleadings: Volga-Dnepr served its application on those U.S. carriers operating large all-cargo aircraft. Each carrier indicated that it did not have aircraft available to conduct the proposed operation and that it had no comment or did not oppose grant of the requested authority to Volga-Dnepr. Statutory Standards: Under 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g), we may authorize a foreign air carrier to carry commercial traffic between U.S. points (i.e., cabotage traffic) under limited circumstances. Specifically, we must find that the authority is required in the public interest; that because of an emergency created by unusual circumstances not arising in the normal course of business the traffic cannot be accommodated by U.S. carriers holding certificates under 49 U.S.C. section 41102; that all possible efforts have been made to place the traffic on U.S. carriers; and that the transportation is necessary to avoid unreasonable hardship to the traffic involved (an additional required finding, concerning emergency transportation during labor disputes, was not relevant here). For examples of earlier grants of authority of this type, see, e.g., Order 2001-5-23. DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: July 1, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: July 3-5, 2002 Basis for approval: We found that the application met all the relevant criteria of 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) for the grant of an exemption of this type and that the grant was required in the public interest. Specifically, we were persuaded that the need to move the satellite promptly in order to complete scheduled assembly and integration activities and subsequent launch processing deadlines; the fact that the satellite could not be transported by surface either in time to meet that schedule or without the risk of damage; the potential negative impact of delivery delays; and the unique, outsized nature of the cargo, constituted an emergency not arising in the normal course of business. Moreover, based on the representations of the U.S. carriers, we concluded that no U.S. carrier had aircraft available which could be used to conduct the operation at issue here. We also found that grant of Volga-Dnepr’s request would prevent undue hardship to the cargo and Lockheed Martin. Finally, we found that the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations (see, e.g., Order 94-10-13). Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to our standard exemption conditions (attached) and to the condition that Volga-Dnepr comply with an FAA-approved flight routing for the authorized flight. Action taken by: Read C. Van de Water Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 6/2002
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.205444
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12691-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12708-0002
Notice
"2002-07-09T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Cargo Airline
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on July 9, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-12708 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Cargo Airline Date Filed: July 5, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption pursuant to 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) to operate two one-way cargo charter flights: (1) between Denver, CO, and Cape Canaveral, FL, to transport an outsized Atlas and Centaur IIAS launch vehicle payload and associated equipment, and (2) between Cape Canaveral and North Island, CA, to transport an outsized booster trailer and track kit, during the period July 11-13, 2002, using its AN-124 aircraft, on behalf of Lockheed Martin Space Systems. The applicant stated that Lockheed Martin needed urgent delivery of the equipment in order to meet a schedule that requires mission integration and subsequent launch processing activities in time for a scheduled September launch. It also stated that the cargo is too large for transportation on U.S. carrier aircraft, and that surface transportation was not feasible because of the time involved, the delicate nature and high value of the cargo, and conditions unsuitable to maintaining system integrity compliance. Applicant representative: Glenn Wicks 202-457-7790 Responsive pleadings: Volga Dnepr served its application on those U.S. carriers operating large all-cargo aircraft. Each carrier indicated that it did not have aircraft available to conduct the proposed operation and that it had no comment or did not oppose grant of the requested authority to Volga-Dnepr. Statutory Standards: Under 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g), we may authorize a foreign air carrier to carry commercial traffic between U.S. points (i.e., cabotage traffic) under limited circumstances. Specifically, we must find that the authority is required in the public interest; that because of an emergency created by unusual circumstances not arising in the normal course of business the traffic cannot be accommodated by U.S. carriers holding certificates under 49 U.S.C. section 41102; that all possible efforts have been made to place the traffic on U.S. carriers; and that the transportation is necessary to avoid unreasonable hardship to the traffic involved (an additional required finding, concerning emergency transportation during labor disputes, was not relevant here). For examples of earlier grants of authority of this type, see, e.g., Order 2001-5-23. DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: July 9, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: July 11-16, 2002 Basis for approval: We found that the application met all the relevant criteria of 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) for the grant of an exemption of this type and that the grant was required in the public interest. Specifically, we were persuaded that the need to move the cargo promptly in order to complete scheduled mission integration activities and subsequent launch processing deadlines; the fact that the cargo could not be transported by surface either in time to meet that schedule or without the risk of damage; the potential negative impact of delivery delays; and the unique, outsized nature of the cargo, constituted an emergency not arising in the normal course of business. Moreover, based on the representations of the U.S. carriers, we concluded that no U.S. carrier had aircraft available which could be used to conduct the operation at issue here. We also found that grant of Volga-Dnepr’s request would prevent undue hardship to the cargo and Lockheed Martin. Finally, we found that the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations (see, e.g., Order 94-10-13). Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to our standard exemption conditions (attached) and to the condition that Volga-Dnepr comply with an FAA-approved flight routing for the authorized flights, and with any requisite Department of Defense authorizations. Action taken by: Read C. Van de Water Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 7/2002
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.208613
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12708-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12784-0001
Notice
"2002-07-10T04:00:00"
Notice of Termination of Service at Joplin, Missouri and Request for Waiver of 90-Day Notice Requirement
BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION WASHINGTON, D.C. Notice of PINNACLE AIRLINES CORP. of intent to terminate service at Joplin, Missouri pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 41734 and 14 C.F.R. § 323 ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) Docket OST-02- Dated: July 10, 2002 NOTICE OF TERMINATION OF SERVICE AT JOPLIN, MISSOURI and request for waiver of 90-day notice requirement Pinnacle Airlines Corp. (“Pinnacle”) hereby submits notice, pursuant to 49 U.S.C § 41734 and 14 C.F.R. § 323.3, of its intent to terminate service to Joplin, Missouri no later than 90-days following the date of this notice. Pinnacle seeks a waiver from the Department’s 90-day notice requirement authorizing Pinnacle to terminate service to Joplin, Missouri effective September 3, 2002 (with Pinnacle’s last flights operating on September 2, 2002). Pinnacle serves Joplin, Missouri as Northwest Airlink. In support of this Notice and Request for Waiver, Pinnacle states the following: 1. Pinnacle is a certificated air carrier, whose corporate office is located at: 1689 Nonconnah Boulevard Suite 111 Memphis, TN 38132 (901) 348-4100 Communications with respect to this Notice should be directed to: Curt E. Sawyer Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Pinnacle Airlines Corp. 1689 Nonconnah Boulevard, Suite 111 Memphis, TN 38132 (901) 348-4100 FAX: (901) 348-4162 2. After Pinnacle terminates service, Joplin will continue to receive service to a large hub airport. Trans State Airlines, an American Airlines codeshare partner, currently offers four roundtrips on Mondays through Fridays, two roundtrips on Saturdays, and three roundtrips on Sundays between Joplin and St. Louis, Missouri. All of these flights are on a non-stop basis. 3. The routing and schedule of the service that Pinnacle seeks to terminate is as follows: From Departure To Arrival Frequency MEM 12:40 JLN 14:20 Daily nonstop JLN 14:40 MEM 16:15 Daily nonstop 4. Pinnacle operates these flights with Saab SF340 aircraft (33 passenger seats). 5. Pinnacle intends to terminate service at Joplin, Missouri effective September 3, 2002, with its last flights operating on September 2, 2002, or no later than 90 days following the date of this notice. 6. The Department has determined that the level of essential air service for Joplin is a minimum of two daily roundtrip flights to/from Kansas City and two daily roundtrips to/from St. Louis. The service to Kansas City must be operated on a nonstop basis; the service to St. Louis may be operated on a one-stop basis. See DOT Order 86-5-39 (May 13, 1986). 7. The effective date of this Notice is July 10, 2002. Objections to this Notice are due within 20 days of this Notice or on July 30, 2002. 8. As required by 14 C.F.R. § 323.7(a), this Notice is being served upon all persons listed on the attached service list. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Curtis E. Sawyer /s/ Curt E. Sawyer Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Pinnacle Airlines Corp. 1689 Nonconnah Boulevard Suite 111 Memphis, TN 38132 (901) 348-4100 Dated: July 10, 2002 CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE A copy of this NOTICE OF TERMINATION AND REQUEST FOR WAIVER was served by first class mail, postage prepaid, upon each of the persons below: Dennis DeVany, Chief EAS and Domestic Analysis, X-53 U.S. Department of Transportation 400 Seventh Street, S.W. Room 6417 Washington, D.C. 20590 Steve Stockam, Manager Joplin Regional Airport P.O. Box 1355 Joplin, MO 64802 Richard H. Russell, Mayor City of Joplin Municipal Building 303 East Third Street Joplin, MO 64801 Rodney K. Bray, Postmaster 101 North Main Street Joplin, MO 64801 (…continued) (continued…) NOTICE OF PINNACLE AIRLINES CORP. Page PAGE \* MERGEFORMAT 3 NOTICE OF PINNACLE AIRLINES CORP. Page PAGE \* MERGEFORMAT 2 PAGE 2
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.225305
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12784-0001/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12903-0003
Notice
"2002-08-23T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: European Air Transport N.V.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on August 23, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-12903 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: European Air Transport N.V. Date Filed: July 19, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 U.S.C. 41301 and statement of authorization pursuant to 14 CFR 212 of the Department’s regulations to wet lease aircraft to DHL International E.C. (DHLIEC) for the operation of DHLIEC’s Brussels-Bahrain and Bahrain-Kuwait-Dubai scheduled all-cargo services, for a period of 120 days. The applicant stated that the wet lease is required until DHLIEC permanently replaces an aircraft which was lost in a collision over Germany on July 1, 2002. It further stated that it is qualified, and has the financial resources, to provide the proposed services. Applicant representative: Bruce Rabinovitz 202-663-6960 Responsive pleadings: None DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: August 23, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: August 23, 2002 - December 23, 2002 Basis for approval: We found that comity and reciprocity with Belgium supported grant of this authority. We also found the applicant operationally and financially qualified, and properly licensed to conduct the proposed services. The record indicates that the applicant is 99.98% owned by DHL Aviation N.V., a Belgium corporation, which is a subsidiary of DHL Worldwide Express B.V., which, in turn, is substantially owned by German interests. The United States has open skies aviation agreements with both Belgium and Germany. Thus, despite the presence of non-homeland interests, we found that there was nothing in the ownership and control of the carrier that would be inimical to U.S. aviation policy or interests. Accordingly, we concluded that waiver of our standard requirement that substantial ownership and effective control of a foreign carrier rest in the hands of citizens of its homeland was warranted. Finally, the FAA has advised us that it knows of no reason why the Department should act unfavorably on the carrier’s application. Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: X Standard exemption conditions (attached) __ Foreign air carrier permit conditions (Order - - ) Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 7/2002 See Notice of Action Taken dated April 25, 2002, in Docket OST-99-5470.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.229649
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12903-0003/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-12983-0002
Notice
"2002-08-16T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Lineas Aereas Azteca, S.A. de C.V.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on August 16, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST 2002-12983 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: LINEAS AEREAS AZTECA, S.A. de C.V. Date Filed: July 30, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 USC section 41301 to permit the applicant to conduct scheduled, combination service between Guadalajara, Mexico, and Chicago, Illinois. If renewal, date and citation of last action: New authority. Applicant representative(s): Pierre Murphy, 202-822-8050 Responsive pleadings: None. DISPOSITION Action: Approved. Action date: August 16, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: August 16, 2002, through August 16, 2003. Basis for approval: United States-Mexico Air Transport Services Agreement Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: Standard exemption conditions. Special conditions/Remarks: Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations; (3) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (4) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.233413
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-12983-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13002-0002-0001
Notice
"2002-08-13T04:00:00"
Notice
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on the 13th day of August, 2002 ________________________________________________ : JOINT APPLICATION OF ALOHA AIRLINES, INC., : Served: August 13, 2002 And : HAWAIIAN AIRLINES, INC., : Docket OST- : 2002-13002 under Section 116 of the Aviation and Transportation : Security Act of 2001 for Approval of and : Antitrust Exemption for Agreement : : NOTICE On July 31, 2002, Aloha Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines applied for approval and antitrust immunity for an agreement whereby the two airlines would coordinate capacity on five major routes within Hawaii. They applied for approval and antitrust immunity under section 116 of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001, P.L. No. 107-71, 115 Stat. 624 (November 19, 2001), which authorizes the Secretary, notwithstanding the provisions of 49 U.S.C. 41309(a), to approve and grant antitrust immunity to an agreement governing air transportation within a single state, if the Governor of the state has issued a declaration that the agreement is necessary to ensure the continuing availability of such air transportation within the state. The Governor of Hawaii has made such a declaration. Any grant of approval and antitrust immunity would be made under 49 U.S.C. 41308 and 41309 under the standards set by section 116. As provided by our procedural rules for such applications, 14 C.F.R. Part 303, we have reviewed the application and determined that it is substantially complete. Answers would normally be due twenty-one days from the date of adoption of this notice. The statute, however, requires that any decision approving and granting antitrust immunity be made by October 1, 2002. To enable us to fully consider any comments and make our determination before this deadline, we will give commenters fifteen days to file answers to the application. While we have concluded that the application is substantially complete, we reserve the right to require the filing of any additional information deemed relevant to this proceeding at any time. By: READ C. VAN DE WATER Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (SEAL) An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov/
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.235600
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13002-0002-0001/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13002-0002-0002
Notice
"2002-08-13T04:00:00"
Notice
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on the 13th day of August, 2002 ________________________________________________ : JOINT APPLICATION OF ALOHA AIRLINES, INC., : Served: August 13, 2002 And : HAWAIIAN AIRLINES, INC., : Docket OST- : 2002-13002 under Section 116 of the Aviation and Transportation : Security Act of 2001 for Approval of and : Antitrust Exemption for Agreement : : NOTICE On July 31, 2002, Aloha Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines applied for approval and antitrust immunity for an agreement whereby the two airlines would coordinate capacity on five major routes within Hawaii. They applied for approval and antitrust immunity under section 116 of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001, P.L. No. 107-71, 115 Stat. 624 (November 19, 2001), which authorizes the Secretary, notwithstanding the provisions of 49 U.S.C. 41309(a), to approve and grant antitrust immunity to an agreement governing air transportation within a single state, if the Governor of the state has issued a declaration that the agreement is necessary to ensure the continuing availability of such air transportation within the state. The Governor of Hawaii has made such a declaration. Any grant of approval and antitrust immunity would be made under 49 U.S.C. 41308 and 41309 under the standards set by section 116. As provided by our procedural rules for such applications, 14 C.F.R. Part 303, we have reviewed the application and determined that it is substantially complete. Answers would normally be due twenty-one days from the date of adoption of this notice. The statute, however, requires that any decision approving and granting antitrust immunity be made by October 1, 2002. To enable us to fully consider any comments and make our determination before this deadline, we will give commenters fifteen days to file answers to the application. While we have concluded that the application is substantially complete, we reserve the right to require the filing of any additional information deemed relevant to this proceeding at any time. By: READ C. VAN DE WATER Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (SEAL) An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov/
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.238016
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13002-0002-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13004-0002
Notice
"2002-08-05T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Northwest Airlines, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Issued by the Department of Transportation on August 5, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13004 ________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Application of NORTHWEST AIRLINES, INC filed 8/02/02 for: XX : Allocation of a one-half (.5) U.S.-Ukraine weekly roundtrip frequency in order to expand its third- country code-share services with KLM Royal Dutch to daily service. Under Annex 1 of the U.S.-Ukraine aviation agreement, there are a total of 18 weekly roundtrip frequencies for combination services available for distribution. Currently, a total of 9 frequencies are allocated as follows: Delta (2.5 frequencies), Northwest (3.0 frequencies), and United (3.5 frequencies). Thus, there are 9 remaining frequencies currently unallocated. Allocation of one-half frequency will leave 8.5 remaining frequencies for distribution. Applicant rep: Megan Rae Rosia, (202) 842-3193 DOT Analyst: Keith Glatz, (202) 366-3260 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted, subject to conditions (see below) The above action was effective when taken: August 5, 2002, and will remain in effect indefinitely. Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted is consistent with the overall state of aviation relations between the United States and Ukraine. Except to the extent exempted or waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX Holder’s certificates of public convenience and necessity XX Dormancy Condition: The frequency allocation is subject to the condition that if any of the frequencies are not used for a period of 90 days, the allocation as to each of those frequencies will expire automatically and the unused frequencies will revert to the Department for reallocation. The dormancy condition will begin on the date of this notice. ___________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy and (2) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Under Annex 1 of the U.S.-Ukraine bilateral agreement, frequencies used to provide third-country code-share service count as one-half of a frequency. Aviation relations between the United States and Ukraine are governed by a bilateral aviation agreement. However, the Annexes to the Agreement, which serve for the basis of authority sought here, expired on December 31, 2001. While the Annexes have yet to be formally extended, both parties have been continuing to observe their provisions on a comity and reciprocity basis.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.239516
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13004-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13011-0002
Notice
"2002-08-23T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Frontier Airlines, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on August 23, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKETS OST-2002-13061 OST-2002-13011 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applications of FRONTIER AIRLINES, INC. filed 8/6/2002 for: XX Exemption for two years under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Docket OST-2002-13061: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between Denver, Colorado, and Cancun, Mexico. Docket OST-2002-13011: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between Denver, Colorado, on the one hand, and San Jose del Cabo and Mazatlan, Mexico, on the other hand. Applicant rep: Edward P. Faberman (202) 639-7501 DOT Analyst: Linda L. Lundell (202) 366-2336 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted (subject to conditions, see below) The above action was effective when taken: August 23, 2002, through August 23, 2004. Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted is consistent with the aviation agreement between the United States and Mexico. Except to the extent exempted or waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX Holder’s certificates of public convenience and necessity XX Standard Exemption Conditions (attached) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------- Conditions: The U.S.-Mexico exemption authority granted is subject to the dormancy notice requirements set forth in condition 7 of Appendix A of Order 88-10-2. Consistent with our standard practice, the dormancy notice period will begin on December 20, 2002, for the Denver-Cancun service, and December 7, 2002, for the Denver-San Jose del Cabo/Mazatlan service—Frontier’s proposed startup dates for the subject U.S.-Mexico service. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------------------------------------- On the basis of data officially noticeable under Rule 24(g) of the Department’s regulations, we found the applicant qualified to provide the services authorized. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the exemption authority was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted, we denied all requests in the referenced Dockets. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Attachment U.S. CARRIER Standard Exemption Conditions In the conduct of operations authorized by the attached notice, the applicant(s) shall: (1) Hold at all times effective operating authority from the government of each country served; (2) Comply with applicable requirements concerning oversales contained in 14 CFR 250 (for scheduled operations, if authorized); (3) Comply with the requirements for reporting data contained in 14 CFR 241; (4) Comply with requirements for minimum insurance coverage, and for certifying that coverage to the Department, contained in 14 CFR 205; (5) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (6) Comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations, and with all U.S. Government requirements concerning security; and (7) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department of Transportation, with all applicable orders and regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. The authority granted shall be effective only during the period when the holder is in compliance with the conditions imposed above.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.242395
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13011-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13061-0002
Notice
"2002-08-23T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Frontier Airlines, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on August 23, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKETS OST-2002-13061 OST-2002-13011 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applications of FRONTIER AIRLINES, INC. filed 8/6/2002 for: XX Exemption for two years under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Docket OST-2002-13061: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between Denver, Colorado, and Cancun, Mexico. Docket OST-2002-13011: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between Denver, Colorado, on the one hand, and San Jose del Cabo and Mazatlan, Mexico, on the other hand. Applicant rep: Edward P. Faberman (202) 639-7501 DOT Analyst: Linda L. Lundell (202) 366-2336 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted (subject to conditions, see below) The above action was effective when taken: August 23, 2002, through August 23, 2004. Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted is consistent with the aviation agreement between the United States and Mexico. Except to the extent exempted or waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX Holder’s certificates of public convenience and necessity XX Standard Exemption Conditions (attached) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------- Conditions: The U.S.-Mexico exemption authority granted is subject to the dormancy notice requirements set forth in condition 7 of Appendix A of Order 88-10-2. Consistent with our standard practice, the dormancy notice period will begin on December 20, 2002, for the Denver-Cancun service, and December 7, 2002, for the Denver-San Jose del Cabo/Mazatlan service—Frontier’s proposed startup dates for the subject U.S.-Mexico service. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------------------------------------- On the basis of data officially noticeable under Rule 24(g) of the Department’s regulations, we found the applicant qualified to provide the services authorized. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the exemption authority was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted, we denied all requests in the referenced Dockets. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Attachment U.S. CARRIER Standard Exemption Conditions In the conduct of operations authorized by the attached notice, the applicant(s) shall: (1) Hold at all times effective operating authority from the government of each country served; (2) Comply with applicable requirements concerning oversales contained in 14 CFR 250 (for scheduled operations, if authorized); (3) Comply with the requirements for reporting data contained in 14 CFR 241; (4) Comply with requirements for minimum insurance coverage, and for certifying that coverage to the Department, contained in 14 CFR 205; (5) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (6) Comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations, and with all U.S. Government requirements concerning security; and (7) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department of Transportation, with all applicable orders and regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. The authority granted shall be effective only during the period when the holder is in compliance with the conditions imposed above.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.244770
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13061-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13089-0003-0001
Notice
"2002-08-16T04:00:00"
Notice Consolidating Proceedings and Granting Extension of Time
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Served: August 16, 2002 _____________________________________________________________________ In Re: COMPLIANCE WITH U.S. CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENTS of DHL AIRWAYS, INC., Third Party Complaint pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §302.404 Docket OST-2001-8736 and PETITION OF UNITED PARCEL SERVICE CO. TO INSTITUTE A PUBLIC INQUIRY INTO THE CITIZENSHIP AND FOREIGN CONTROL OF DHL AIRWAYS, INC. Docket OST-2002-13089 _____________________________________________________________________ NOTICE CONSOLIDATING PROCEEDINGS AND GRANTING EXTENSION OF TIME Summary By this notice, for administrative convenience, we consolidate the filing by Federal Express Corporation (“FedEx”), dated August 7, 2002, in Docket OST-2001-8736 into Docket OST-2002-13089, a petition by United Parcel Service (“UPS”) to institute an inquiry into the citizenship of DHL Airways, Inc. (“DHL Airways”). We also extend the deadline for answers to both filings to September 6, 2002. Consolidation of Proceedings On August 7, 2002, FedEx filed in Docket OST-2001-8736 a petition for reconsideration or, alternatively, review of staff action of the Department’s approval of DHL Airways’ corporate structure. Originally, this docket contained a third-party enforcement complaint by FedEx against DHL Airways , Inc. which was dismissed by the Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings on May 11, 2001 (Order 2001-5-11). That docket is thus closed and is not the appropriate forum in which to consider FedEx’s petition. On August 9, 2002, UPS filed a petition to institute a public inquiry into the citizenship and foreign control of DHL Airways, Inc. UPS filed this petition in a new docket (OST-2002-13089). The filings in these two dockets present common issues and are interrelated. Both FedEx and UPS ask us for relief with regard to various issues involving the citizenship of DHL Airways, Inc. Both parties also submit substantially similar information to support their requests. We find that consolidation of these filings in Docket OST-2002-13089 will enable the Department and the parties to address these similar issues and information more efficiently. Thus, we find that the principle of administrative efficiency supports the consolidation of the two proceedings into one coordinated docket. The consolidation will not in any way prejudice any decision, substantive or procedural, made concerning these filings. Extension of Time In a letter of August 13, 2002, DHL Airways requested an extension of time until September 6, 2002 to respond to the UPS and FedEx petitions. In this letter, DHL Airways stated that UPS did not object. FedEx filed a Consent to Extension to Reply on August 14, 2002. For good cause shown, we believe that DHL Airways’s request is reasonable, and we will grant it. ACCORDINGLY, 1. We consolidate the above-captioned proceedings into Docket OST-2002-13089;   2. We grant the August 13, 2002 request of DHL Airways, Inc. for an extension of time and give interested parties until September 6, 2002 to answer the petitions of FedEx and UPS in Docket OST-2002-13089. By: READ C. VAN DE WATER Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (SEAL) An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.246656
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13089-0003-0001/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13089-0003-0002
Notice
"2002-08-16T04:00:00"
Notice Consolidating Proceedings and Granting Extension of Time
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Served: August 16, 2002 _____________________________________________________________________ In Re: COMPLIANCE WITH U.S. CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENTS of DHL AIRWAYS, INC., Third Party Complaint pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §302.404 Docket OST-2001-8736 and PETITION OF UNITED PARCEL SERVICE CO. TO INSTITUTE A PUBLIC INQUIRY INTO THE CITIZENSHIP AND FOREIGN CONTROL OF DHL AIRWAYS, INC. Docket OST-2002-13089 _____________________________________________________________________ NOTICE CONSOLIDATING PROCEEDINGS AND GRANTING EXTENSION OF TIME Summary By this notice, for administrative convenience, we consolidate the filing by Federal Express Corporation (“FedEx”), dated August 7, 2002, in Docket OST-2001-8736 into Docket OST-2002-13089, a petition by United Parcel Service (“UPS”) to institute an inquiry into the citizenship of DHL Airways, Inc. (“DHL Airways”). We also extend the deadline for answers to both filings to September 6, 2002. Consolidation of Proceedings On August 7, 2002, FedEx filed in Docket OST-2001-8736 a petition for reconsideration or, alternatively, review of staff action of the Department’s approval of DHL Airways’ corporate structure. Originally, this docket contained a third-party enforcement complaint by FedEx against DHL Airways , Inc. which was dismissed by the Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings on May 11, 2001 (Order 2001-5-11). That docket is thus closed and is not the appropriate forum in which to consider FedEx’s petition. On August 9, 2002, UPS filed a petition to institute a public inquiry into the citizenship and foreign control of DHL Airways, Inc. UPS filed this petition in a new docket (OST-2002-13089). The filings in these two dockets present common issues and are interrelated. Both FedEx and UPS ask us for relief with regard to various issues involving the citizenship of DHL Airways, Inc. Both parties also submit substantially similar information to support their requests. We find that consolidation of these filings in Docket OST-2002-13089 will enable the Department and the parties to address these similar issues and information more efficiently. Thus, we find that the principle of administrative efficiency supports the consolidation of the two proceedings into one coordinated docket. The consolidation will not in any way prejudice any decision, substantive or procedural, made concerning these filings. Extension of Time In a letter of August 13, 2002, DHL Airways requested an extension of time until September 6, 2002 to respond to the UPS and FedEx petitions. In this letter, DHL Airways stated that UPS did not object. FedEx filed a Consent to Extension to Reply on August 14, 2002. For good cause shown, we believe that DHL Airways’s request is reasonable, and we will grant it. ACCORDINGLY, 1. We consolidate the above-captioned proceedings into Docket OST-2002-13089;   2. We grant the August 13, 2002 request of DHL Airways, Inc. for an extension of time and give interested parties until September 6, 2002 to answer the petitions of FedEx and UPS in Docket OST-2002-13089. By: READ C. VAN DE WATER Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (SEAL) An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.249408
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13089-0003-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13144-0002
Notice
"2002-09-12T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Air Nippon Co., Ltd.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on September 12, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13144 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Air Nippon Co., Ltd. Date Filed: August 13, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 U.S.C. § 41301 to engage in scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property and mail between any point or points in Japan, and any point or points in the United States; and to perform charters subject to 14 CFR Part 212 of our rules. Statement of Authorization to the extent necessary to permit Air Nippon to wet lease aircraft to All Nippon Airways Co., Ltd (ANA) for use by ANA on all routes ANA is authorized to serve under its blanket code-share with United Air Lines, Inc. Date and citation of last action: Air Nippon previously held exemption authority during the period October 23, 1998- October 3, 2001. See Notices of Action Taken, dated October 23, 1998 & October 3, 2000, in Docket OST-98-4541. Air Nippon’s request for a statement of authorization to wet lease aircraft to ANA, for use by ANA in its code-share with United, is new. Applicant representative: Charles J. Simpson, Jr. (202) 298-8660 Responsive pleadings: None filed DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: September 12, 2002 Effective dates of the authority granted: September 12, 2002-September 12, 2003 Basis for approval (bilateral agreement/reciprocity): 1998 Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Japan (1998 MOU). Special conditions/Partial grant/Denial basis/Remarks: The authority granted above is subject to the provisions of the 1998 MOU, and the further condition that Air Nippon shall not perform any third and fourth freedom charters unless specific authority in the form of a statement of authorization for such charter(s) has been granted by the Department. Air Nippon shall file applications for such statements of authorization at least 30 calendar days before the charters involved pursuant to the procedures set forth in § 212.10; provided, that applications involving all-cargo charters may be filed up to ten calendar days before the flights. (Under § 212.11(c), we need not submit denials of late-filed applications for Presidential review). Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: X Standard exemption conditions (attached) X Conditions set forth in the Statements of Authorization granted All Nippon Airways and United Air Lines, Inc. dated August 7, 1998 Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) the applicant was qualified to perform the proposed operations; (2) our action was required and was consistent with Department policy; (3) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (4) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR § 385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: HYPERLINK "http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp" http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Attachment A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 9/98 On August 7, 1998, we granted All Nippon Airways and United Air Lines blanket statements of authorization to engage in code-share services. See undocketed joint application of United Air Lines, Inc. and All Nippon Airways Co., Ltd., dated May 1, 1998.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.250988
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13144-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13259-0002
Notice
"2002-09-30T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Lineas Aereas Azteca, S.A. de C.V.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on September 30, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST 2002-13259 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: LINEAS AEREAS AZTECA, S.A. de C.V. Date Filed: August 28, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 USC section 41301 to permit the applicant to conduct scheduled, combination service between: 1) Mexico City, Mexico, and Las Vegas, Nevada; and 2) Mexico City, Mexico, and Ontario, California. If renewal, date and citation of last action: New authority. Applicant representative(s): Pierre Murphy, 202-822-8050 Responsive pleadings: None. DISPOSITION Action: Approved. Action date: September 30, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: September 30, 2002, through September 30, 2003. Basis for approval: United States-Mexico Air Transport Services Agreement Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: Standard exemption conditions. Special conditions/Remarks: Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations; (3) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (4) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.256110
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13259-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13371-0002
Notice
"2002-10-02T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Transporte Aereo S.A. d/b/a LanExpress
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 2, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13371 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Transporte Aéreo S.A. d/b/a LanExpress Date Filed: September 16, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 U.S.C. § 41301 to the extent necessary to engage in scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property and mail between points in Chile and points in the United States, via intermediate points, in conjunction with a code-share with American Airlines, Inc. Statement of Authorization under 14 CFR Part 212 to permit Transporte Aéreo S.A. to display the designator code of American Airlines, Inc. (AA) on flights operated by Transporte Aéreo S.A. between points in Chile, for the carriage of American’s U.S.-Chile traffic. Date and citation of last action: New authority Applicant representative: Charles J. Simpson, Jr. (202) 298-8660 & Juan Carlos Mencio (305) 869-2993 Responsive pleadings: None filed DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: October 2, 2002 (We acted on this application without awaiting expiration of the 15-day answer period with the consent of all parties served.) Effective dates of the exemption authority granted: October 2, 2002 through October 2, 2004 The statement of authorization granted was effective October 2, 2002, and will remain in effect indefinitely, subject to the conditions listed below: Basis for approval (bilateral agreement/reciprocity): The Air Transport Agreement between the United States and Chile Special conditions/Partial grant/Denial basis/Remarks: Based on the record in this case, we found that Transporte Aéreo S.A. is financially and operationally qualified to perform the services authorized above. The applicant is substantially owned and effectively controlled by two Chilean corporations. Specifically, Transporte Aéreo S.A. is owned by Lan Chile Cargo S.A. (99 shares) and Inversiones Lan S.A. (1 share). The carrier is properly licensed by the Government of Chile to perform the proposed services. Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: X Standard exemption conditions (attached) X Conditions set forth in the Statements of Authorization granted Lan Chile, S.A. and American Airlines, Inc. dated January 7, 2000, in Docket OST-99-6546 Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) the applicant was qualified to perform the proposed operations; (2) our action was consistent with Department policy; (3) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (4) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR § 385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: HYPERLINK "http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp" http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Attachment A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, comply (except as otherwise provided in the applicable bilateral agreement) with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 9/98 The applicant states that initially, American’s code will be carried on Transporte Aéreo S.A. flights between Santiago and Concepción, Puerto Montt, Punta Arenas, Antofagasta and Iquique. American’s service beyond Santiago will be operated on a blind-sector basis with no local traffic carried under American’s code between points in Chile. American holds Department certificate authority to provide service between the United States and Chile. See Order 96-5-9. Lan Chile Cargo S.A. is 99.8% owned by Lan Chile, S.A., a foreign air carrier of Chile. Any 30-day notice letter informing the Department of new code-share services under the blanket code-share authority granted Lan䌠楨敬愠摮䄠敭楲慣湩䐠捯敫⁴协ⵔ㤹㘭㐵‶桳污 污潳戠⁥楦敬⁤湩䐠捯敫⁴协ⵔ〲㈰ㄭ㌳ㄷമ ഍ഀ :
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2024-06-07T20:31:39.260095
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13371-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13383-0002
Notice
"2002-10-23T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Propair Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 23, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST 2002-13383 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: PROPAIR INC. Date Filed: September 18, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 USC section 41301 to permit the applicant to conduct, using small equipment (see below), passenger and cargo charter operations between Canada and the United States, and other charters in accordance with 14 CFR Part 212. Applicant representative: Ron Tuggey, 819-762-0811 DOT analyst: Allen F. Brown, 202-366-2405 Responsive pleadings: None. DISPOSITION Action: Approved. Action date: October 23, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: October 23, 2002, through October 23, 2003. Basis for approval (bilateral agreement/reciprocity): United States-Canada Air Transport Agreement (Agreement) Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: Standard exemption conditions. Special conditions/Remarks: In the conduct of these operations, the carrier may only use aircraft designed to have a maximum passenger capacity of not more than 60 seats or a maximum payload capacity of not more than 18,000 pounds. The above grant includes authority to conduct Third and Fourth Freedom charter operations. Charter operations to be conducted under this authority that would not operate between Canada and the United States, however, are subject to prior approval under 14 CFR Part 212. Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director, Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp
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2024-06-07T20:31:39.262267
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13383-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13386-0001
Notice
"2002-09-18T04:00:00"
Notice of Termination of Service at Lafayette, Indiana
BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION WASHINGTON, D.C. Notice of MESABA AVIATION, INC. d/b/a MESABA AIRLINES of intent to terminate service at Lafayette, Indiana pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 41734 and 14 C.F.R. § 323 ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) Docket OST-02- Dated: September 18, 2002 NOTICE OF TERMINATION OF SERVICE AT Lafayette, indiana Mesaba Aviation, Inc. d/b/a Mesaba Airlines (“Mesaba”) hereby submits notice, pursuant to 49 U.S.C § 41734 and 14 C.F.R. § 323.3, of its intent to terminate service to Lafayette, Indiana, effective December 18, 2002. Mesaba provides this service as Northwest Airlink. In support of this Notice, Mesaba states the following: 1. Mesaba is a certificated air carrier, whose corporate office is located at: 7501 26th Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55450 (612) 726-5151. 2. Communications with respect to this Notice should be directed to: Robert E. Weil Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Mesaba Airlines 7501 26th Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55450 (612) 726-5151 FAX: (612) 726-5168 3. No other carrier is currently serving Lafayette, Indiana from a large or medium hub. (BRAD, CONFIRM TRUE). The Department, however, cannot require continuation of service to Lafayette beyond the 90-day termination notice period because Lafayette is located 61 highway miles from a medium hub airport: Indianapolis International Airport. 4. The routing and schedule of the service that Mesaba is terminating on December 18, 2002 is as follows: From Departure To Arrival FrequencyDTW 13:50 YNG 15:42 Daily one stop via CAK DTW 19:50 YNG 20:52 Daily one stop via CAK DTW 1604 LAF 1631 Daily nonstop DTW 1925 LAF 1951 Daily nonstop except Sat YNG 16:05 DTW 17:59 Daily one stop via CAK YNG 07:30 DTW 09:25 Daily one stop via CAK LAF 0640 DTW 0910 Daily nonstop LAF 1735 DTW 1955 Daily nonstop except Sat 5. Mesaba operates these flights with Saab SF340 aircraft (30 - 34 passenger seats). 6. Mesaba intends to terminate Lafayette service on December 18, 2002. 7. In 1983, the Department determined that the level of essential air service for Lafayette, Indiana is two daily nonstop roundtrips to/from Chicago providing a minimum of 62 seats in each direction. Order 83-6-3 (June 1, 1983). In 1999, however, the Department determined that it could not subsidize any carrier serving Lafayette because this community is 61 highway miles from Indianapolis International Airport, a medium hub. Order 99-6-21 (June 25, 1999). Because the Department is unable to subsidize service to/from Lafayette, it cannot require any carrier to continue serving the community beyond the 90-day termination notice period. Id. The Department, nevertheless, continues to require notice of service termination, and Mesaba is complying with this notice requirement. 8. The effective date of this Notice is September 18, 2002. Objections to this Notice are due within 20 days of this Notice. 9. As required by 14 C.F.R. § 323.7(a), this Notice is being served upon all persons listed on the attached service list. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Robert E. Weil /s/ Robert E. Weil Vice President and Chief Financial Officer MESABA AIRLINES 7501 26TH Avenue South Minneapolis, MS 55450 (612) 726-5151 Dated: September 18, 2002 SERVICE LIST On this 18th day of September 2002, a copy of this NOTICE OF TERMINATION was served by first class mail, postage prepaid, upon each of the persons below: Dennis DeVany, Chief EAS and Domestic Analysis, X-53 U.S. Department of Transportation 400 Seventh Street, S.W. Room 6417I Washington, D.C. 20590 Robert Stroud Manager Lafayette Purdue University Airport Terminal Building #104 Airport Road W Lafayette, IN 47906 Mayor David Heath City of Lafayette City Hall Lafayette, IN 47906 (…continued) (continued…) NOTICE OF TERMINATION OF MESABA AIRLINES Page PAGE \* MERGEFORMAT 2 PAGE 2
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2024-06-07T20:31:39.264091
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13386-0001/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13400-0003
Notice
"2002-10-02T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Aerovias de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. and Delta Air Lines, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 2, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13400 ________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Joint application of AEROVIAS DE MEXICO, S.A. DE C.V. and DELTA AIR LINES, INC., filed 9/19/02 for: XX Exemption for Aeromexico for one year under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between Mazatlan, Mexico, and San Diego, California. Aeromexico intends to operate this service under a code-share arrangement with Delta on flights operated by Aeromexico. XX Exemption for Delta for two years under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between Mazatlan, Mexico, and San Diego, California. Delta also requests to integrate this authority with its existing certificate and exemption authority. XX Statement of authorization for Aeromexico for indefinite duration under 14 CFR Part 212 of the Department’s Regulations to: Display Delta’s “DL” designator code in conjunction with scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail on flights operated by Aeromexico between Mazatlan, Mexico, and San Diego, California. Applicant rep: Robert E.Cohn, 202-663-8060 (Delta) William C. Evans, 202-371-6030 (Aeromexico) DOT Analyst: Keith A. Glatz, 202-366-3260 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted (subject to conditions, see below) The above action, granting new exemption authority to Aeromexico was effective when taken: October 2, 2002, through October 2, 2003. The above action, granting new exemption authority to Delta was effective when taken: October 2, 2002, through October 2, 2004. The above action, granting a statement of authorization to Aeromexico was effective when taken: October 2, 2002, and will remain in effect indefinitely, subject to the conditions listed below. Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted is consistent with the aviation agreement between the United States and Mexico. Except to the extent exempted or waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX Aeromexico’s foreign air carrier permit XX Delta’s certificates of public convenience and necessity XX Standard exemption conditions (attached) ______________ Conditions: The U.S.-Mexico exemption authority granted to Delta is subject to the dormancy notice requirements set forth in condition 7 of Appendix A of Order 88-10-2, and is limited to operations conducted on a code-share basis only. The route integration authority granted is subject to the condition that any service provided under this exemption shall be consistent with all applicable agreements between the United States and the foreign countries involved. Furthermore, (a) nothing in the award of the route integration authority granted should be construed as conferring upon Delta rights (including fifth-freedom intermediate and/or beyond rights) to serve markets where U.S. carrier entry is limited unless Delta notifies the Department of its intent to serve such a market and unless and until the Department has completed any necessary carrier selection procedures to determine which carrier(s) should be authorized to exercise such rights; and (b) should there be a request by any carrier to use the limited-entry route rights that are included in Delta’s authority by virtue of the route integration exemption granted here, but that are not then being used by Delta, the holding of such authority by route integration will not be considered as providing any preference to Delta in a competitive carrier selection proceeding to determine which carrier(s) should be entitled to use the authority at issue. The Statement of Authorization granted Aeromexico is subject to the following conditions: The statement of authorization will remain in effect only as long as Delta and Aeromexico continue to hold the underlying authority to operate the code-share services at issue, and the code-share agreement providing for the code-share operations remains in effect. Delta and/or Aeromexico must promptly notify the Department (Office of International Aviation) if the code-share agreement is no longer effective or if the carriers decide to cease operating all of a portion of the approved code-share services. (Such notice should be filed in Docket OST-2002-13.) The code-sharing operations conducted under this authority must comply with 14 CFR 257 and with any amendment to the Department’s regulations concerning code-share arrangements that may be adopted. Notwithstanding any provisions in the contract between the carriers, our approval here is expressly conditioned upon the requirements that the subject foreign air transportation be sold in the name of the carrier holding out such service in computer reservation systems and elsewhere; that the carrier selling such transportation (i.e., the carrier shown on the ticket) accept responsibility for the entirety of the code-share journey for all obligations established in its contract of carriage with the passenger; and that the passenger liability of the operating carrier be unaffected; and the operating carrier shall not permit the code of its U.S. code-sharing partner to be carried on any flight that enters, departs, or transits the airspace of any area for whose airspace the Federal Aviation Administration has issued a flight prohibition; and The authority granted here is specifically conditioned so that neither Delta nor Aeromexico shall give any force or effect to any contractual provisions between themselves that are contrary to these conditions. Remarks: We acted on this application without awaiting expiration of the 15-day answer period with the consent of all parties served. ________________________________________________________________________ ______________ On the basis of data officially noticeable under Rule 24(g) of the Department's regulations, we found the applicants qualified to provide the services authorized. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the application was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Attachment FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 7/2002 Attachment U.S. CARRIER Standard Exemption Conditions In the conduct of operations authorized by the attached notice, the applicant(s) shall: (1) Hold at all times effective operating authority from the government of each country served; (2) Comply with applicable requirements concerning oversales contained in 14 CFR 250 (for scheduled operations, if authorized); (3) Comply with the requirements for reporting data contained in 14 CFR 241; (4) Comply with requirements for minimum insurance coverage, and for certifying that coverage to the Department, contained in 14 CFR 205; (5) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (6) Comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and with all U.S. Government requirements concerning security; and (7) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department of Transportation, with all applicable orders and regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. The authority granted shall be effective only during the period when the holder is in compliance with the conditions imposed above. We expect this notification to be received within 10 days of such non-effectiveness or of such decision.
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2024-06-07T20:31:39.267309
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13400-0003/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13426-0002
Notice
"2002-10-01T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Airline
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 1, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKETS OST-2002-13426 & OST-2002-13461 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Cargo Airline Relief requested: Exemptions pursuant to 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) to operate the following cargo charter flights using its AN-124 aircraft: (a) one one-way flight from Philadelphia, PA, to Moffet Field, CA, to transport outsized cargo consisting of a Rainbow Satellite payload and associated equipment on/about September 28, 2002, on behalf of Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems (Docket OST-2002-13425, filed September 23, 2002); and (b) three one-way flights from Denver, CO, to Cape Canaveral/Skid Strip, FL, October 3-10, 2002, to transport outsized cargo consisting of a Centaur III upper stage payload, an Atlas and Centaur launch vehicle payload, and an Atlas V booster payload, on behalf of Lockheed Martin Astronautics (Docket OST-2002-13461, filed September 26, 2002). The applicant stated that Lockheed Martin needed urgent delivery of the equipment in order to meet a schedule that requires final assembly of the Rainbow Satellite payload and subsequent shipment to Cape Canaveral for scheduled initial launch capability and in order to complete mission integration activities involving the other equipment and subsequent launch processing. It also stated that the cargo is too large for transportation on U.S. carrier aircraft, and that surface transportation was not feasible because of the time involved, the delicate nature and high value of the cargo, and conditions unsuitable to maintaining system integrity compliance. Applicant representative: Glenn Wicks 202-457-7790 Responsive pleadings: Volga Dnepr served its applications on those U.S. carriers operating large all-cargo aircraft. Each carrier indicated that it did not have aircraft available to conduct the proposed operations and that it had no comment or did not oppose grant of the requested authority to Volga-Dnepr. Statutory Standards: Under 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g), we may authorize a foreign air carrier to carry commercial traffic between U.S. points (i.e., cabotage traffic) under limited circumstances. Specifically, we must find that the authority is required in the public interest; that because of an emergency created by unusual circumstances not arising in the normal course of business the traffic cannot be accommodated by U.S. carriers holding certificates under 49 U.S.C. section 41102; that all possible efforts have been made to place the traffic on U.S. carriers; and that the transportation is necessary to avoid unreasonable hardship to the traffic involved (an additional required finding, concerning emergency transportation during labor disputes, was not relevant here). For examples of earlier grants of authority of this type, see, e.g., Order 2001-5-23. DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: October 1, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: October 1-13, 2002 Basis for approval: We found that the applications met all the relevant criteria of 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) for the grant of an exemption of this type and that the grant was required in the public interest. Specifically, we were persuaded that the need to move the cargo promptly in order to complete scheduled assembly and mission integration activities and subsequent launch deadlines; the fact that the cargo could not be transported by surface either in time to meet that schedule or without the risk of damage; the potential negative impact of delivery delays; and the unique, outsized nature of the cargo, constituted an emergency not arising in the normal course of business. Moreover, based on the Page 2 - Dockets OST-2002-13426 & OST-2002-13461 representations of the U.S. carriers, we concluded that no U.S. carrier had aircraft available which could be used to conduct the operations at issue here. We also found that grant of Volga-Dnepr’s requests would prevent undue hardship to the cargo and Lockheed Martin. Finally, we found that the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations (see, e.g., Order 94-10-13). Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to our standard exemption conditions (attached) and to the condition that Volga-Dnepr comply with an FAA-approved flight routing for the authorized flights. Action taken by: Read C. Van de Water Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 7/2002 The applicant subsequently advised us informally that this flight had been delayed until on/about October 3, 2002.
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2024-06-07T20:31:39.271628
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13426-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13449-0002
Notice
"2002-09-27T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Antonov Design Bureau
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on September 27, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13449 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Antonov Design Bureau Date Filed: September 24, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption pursuant to 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) to operate one one-way cargo charter flight from Wilmington, OH, to Seattle/Boeing Field, WA, during the period September 27-October 2, 2002, using its AN-124 aircraft to transport one outsized GE90-115 aircraft engine and related tooling and components. Antonov stated that General Electric Aircraft Engines (GEAE) urgently required delivery of the first of two GE90-225 flight test certification engines for installation on a newly designed Boeing-777-300ER airplane that is scheduled to be completely assembled by November in order to undergo subsequent FAA certification flight testing, and that timely delivery of the engine is a critical component of the overall airplane rollout and certification schedule. It further stated that the size of the engine, and the distance involved, forecloses the use of surface transportation for timely delivery; that in order to avoid undue delays, shipment by air was essential; and that because of the size of the cargo transportation on U.S. carrier aircraft was not possible. Applicant representative: Sheryl Israel 202-663-8060 Responsive pleadings: Antonov served its application on those U.S. carriers operating large all-cargo aircraft. Each carrier indicated that it did not have aircraft available to conduct the proposed operation and that it had no comment or did not oppose grant of the requested authority to Antonov. Statutory Standards: Under 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g), we may authorize a foreign air carrier to carry commercial traffic between U.S. points (i.e., cabotage traffic) under limited circumstances. Specifically, we must find that the authority is required in the public interest; that because of an emergency created by unusual circumstances not arising in the normal course of business the traffic cannot be accommodated by U.S. carriers holding certificates under 49 U.S.C. section 41102; that all possible efforts have been made to place the traffic on U.S. carriers; and that the transportation is necessary to avoid unreasonable hardship to the traffic involved (an additional required finding, concerning emergency transportation during labor disputes, was not relevant here). For examples of earlier grants of authority of this type, see, e.g., Order 2001-5-23. DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: September 27, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: September 27 - October 4, 2002 Basis for approval: We found that the application met all the relevant criteria of 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) for the grant of an exemption of this type and that the grant was required in the public interest. Specifically, we were persuaded that GEAE’s need to transport the engine without delay to in order to meet scheduled assembly and certification flight testing deadlines, and the fact that the cargo could not be transported by other modes in time to meet those deadlines, constituted an emergency not arising in the normal course of business. Moreover, based on the representations of the U.S. carriers, we concluded that no U.S. carrier had aircraft available which would be used to conduct the operation at issue here. Finally, we found that the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations (see, e.g., Notice of Action Taken dated August 26, 2002, in Docket OST-96-1454). Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to our standard exemption conditions (attached) and to the condition that Antonov comply with an FAA-approved flight routing for the authorized flight. Action taken by: Read C. Van de Water Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 7/2002
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.274798
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13449-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13450-0004
Notice
"2002-10-28T05:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Air Canada and El Al Israel Airlines
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 28, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13450 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Joint Applicants: Air Canada & El Al Israel Airlines Date Filed: September 25, 2002 Relief requested: (1) Exemption from 49 U.S.C. 41301 to permit El Al to conduct scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property and mail between Israel and Boston/San Francisco/Chicago, IL, on a code-share basis only, via the intermediate point Toronto, Canada. El Al proposes to conduct these operations via Toronto pursuant to a code-share arrangement with Air Canada. (2) Statement of authorization pursuant to 14 CFR 212 of the Department’s regulations to permit Air Canada to display El Al’s airline designator on flights operated by Air Canada between Toronto and Boston/San Francisco/Chicago. Applicant representatives: Anita Mosner (Air Canada) 703-294-5890; John Gillick (El Al) 202-775-9870 DOT analyst: Barbara C. Schools 202-366-2401 Responsive pleadings: None DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: October 28, 2002 Effective dates of exemption authority granted: October 28, 2002 - October 28, 2003 Effective dates of statement of authorization granted: October 28, 2002 - indefinite, subject to attached conditions Basis for approval: The authority is consistent with the provisions of both the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Israel air service agreements. Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: X Standard exemption conditions (attached) X Foreign air carrier permit conditions (Order 86-3-58) X Code-share conditions (attached) Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ We found that El Al was qualified to perform its proposed operations. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security;1 (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). __________________ 1 To assure compliance with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security, the holder should, before commencing any new service (including charter flights) from a foreign airport that would be the holder’s last point of departure for the United States, inform its Principal Security Inspector of its plans. U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 10/2002 Attachment Air Canada/El Al Israel Airlines Code Share - Docket OST-2002-13450 The code-share operations authorized here are subject to the following conditions: (a) The statement of authorization will remain in effect only as long as (i) Air Canada and El Al continue to hold the necessary underlying authority to operate the code-share services at issue, and (ii) the code-share agreement providing for the code-share operations remains in effect. (b) Air Canada and/or El Al must promptly notify the Department if the code-share agreement providing for the code-share operations is no longer effective or the carriers decide to cease operating any or all of the approved code-share services. Such notices should be filed in Docket OST-2002-13450. 1 (c) The code-sharing operations conducted under this authority must comply with 14 CFR 257 and with any amendments to the Department’s regulations concerning code-share arrangements that may be adopted. Notwithstanding any provisions in the contract between the carriers, our approval here is expressly conditioned upon the requirements that the subject foreign air transportation be sold in the name of the carrier holding out such service in computer reservation systems and elsewhere; that the carrier selling such transportation (i.e., the carrier shown on the ticket) accept responsibility for the entirety of the code-share journey for all obligations established in its contract of carriage with the passenger; and that the passenger liability of the operating carrier be unaffected. (d) The authority granted here is specifically conditioned so that neither carrier shall give any force or effect to any contractual provisions between themselves that are contrary to these conditions. ______________________ 1 We expect this notification to be received within 10 days of such non-effectiveness or of such decision. American Airlines, Inc., filed an answer in opposition, which it subsequently withdrew.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.276988
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13450-0004/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13453-0002
Notice
"2002-09-30T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Lineas Aereas Allegro, S.A. de C.V.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on September 30, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN – DOCKET OST 2002-13453 _______________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: LINEAS AEREAS ALLEGRO, S.A. de C.V. Date Filed: September 25, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 USC section 41301 to permit the applicant to conduct scheduled, combination services between: 1) Leon (El Bajio), Mexico, and Oakland, California; 2) Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and Oakland, California; and 3) Zihuatanejo, Mexico, and Oakland, California. If renewal, date and citation of last action(s): New authority. Applicant representative(s): Moffett B. Roller, 202-331-3300 Responsive pleadings: None. DISPOSITION Action: Approved. Action date: September 30, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: September 30, 2002, through September 30, 2003. Basis for approval (bilateral agreement/reciprocity): United States-Mexico Air Transport Services Agreement. Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: Standard exemption conditions. Special conditions/Remarks: Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations; (3) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (4) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not a瑬牥猠捵⁨晥敦瑣癩湥獥⹳഍湁攠敬瑣潲楮⁣敶獲潩 景琠楨⁳潤畣敭瑮椠⁳癡楡慬汢⁥湯琠敨圠牯摬圠摩 ⁥敗⁢瑡ഺ瑨灴⼺搯獭搮瑯朮癯⼯敲潰瑲⽳敲潰瑲彳癡 慩楴湯愮灳
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.279639
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13453-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13454-0002
Notice
"2002-10-01T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Lineas Aereas Allegro, S.A. de C.V.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 1, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN – DOCKET OST 2002-13454 _______________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: LINEAS AEREAS ALLEGRO, S.A. de C.V. Date Filed: September 25, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 USC section 41301 to permit the applicant to conduct scheduled, combination services between: 1) Guadalajara, Mexico, and Oakland, California; 2) Mexico City, Mexico, and Austin, Texas; 3) Tijuana, Mexico, and Sacramento, California; 4) San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, and Oakland, California; and 5) Cancun, Mexico, and Oakland, California. If renewal, date and citation of last action(s): New authority. Applicant representative(s): Moffett B. Roller, 202-331-3300 Responsive pleadings: None. DISPOSITION Action: Approved. Action date: October 1, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: October 1, 2002, through October 1, 2003. Basis for approval (bilateral agreement/reciprocity): United States-Mexico Air Transport Services Agreement. Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: Standard exemption conditions. Special conditions/Remarks: Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations; (3) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (4) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was 晥敦瑣癩⁥桷湥琠歡湥‬湡⁤桴⁥楦楬杮漠⁦⁡数楴楴 湯映牯爠癥敩⁷楷汬渠瑯愠瑬牥猠捵⁨晥敦瑣癩湥獥⹳ ഍湁攠敬瑣潲楮⁣敶獲潩景琠楨⁳潤畣敭瑮椠⁳癡楡 慬汢⁥湯琠敨圠牯摬圠摩⁥敗⁢瑡ഺ瑨灴⼺搯獭搮瑯朮 癯⼯敲潰瑲⽳敲潰瑲彳癡慩楴湯愮灳
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.281111
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13454-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13455-0002
Notice
"2002-10-01T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Lineas Aereas Allegro, S.A. de C.V.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 1, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN – DOCKET OST 2002-13455 _______________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: LINEAS AEREAS ALLEGRO, S.A. de C.V. Date Filed: September 25, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 USC section 41301 to permit the applicant to conduct scheduled, combination services between: 1) Tijuana, Mexico, and San Jose, California; 2) Leon (El Bajio), Mexico, and Sacramento, California; 3) Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and Sacramento, California; and 4) Zihuatanejo, Mexico, and Sacramento, California. If renewal, date and citation of last action(s): New authority. Applicant representative(s): Moffett B. Roller, 202-331-3300 Responsive pleadings: None. DISPOSITION Action: Approved. Action date: October 1, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: October 1, 2002, through October 1, 2003. Basis for approval (bilateral agreement/reciprocity): United States-Mexico Air Transport Services Agreement. Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: Standard exemption conditions. Special conditions/Remarks: Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations; (3) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (4) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.282395
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13455-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13461-0002
Notice
"2002-10-01T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Airline
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 1, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKETS OST-2002-13426 & OST-2002-13461 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Cargo Airline Relief requested: Exemptions pursuant to 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) to operate the following cargo charter flights using its AN-124 aircraft: (a) one one-way flight from Philadelphia, PA, to Moffet Field, CA, to transport outsized cargo consisting of a Rainbow Satellite payload and associated equipment on/about September 28, 2002, on behalf of Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems (Docket OST-2002-13425, filed September 23, 2002); and (b) three one-way flights from Denver, CO, to Cape Canaveral/Skid Strip, FL, October 3-10, 2002, to transport outsized cargo consisting of a Centaur III upper stage payload, an Atlas and Centaur launch vehicle payload, and an Atlas V booster payload, on behalf of Lockheed Martin Astronautics (Docket OST-2002-13461, filed September 26, 2002). The applicant stated that Lockheed Martin needed urgent delivery of the equipment in order to meet a schedule that requires final assembly of the Rainbow Satellite payload and subsequent shipment to Cape Canaveral for scheduled initial launch capability and in order to complete mission integration activities involving the other equipment and subsequent launch processing. It also stated that the cargo is too large for transportation on U.S. carrier aircraft, and that surface transportation was not feasible because of the time involved, the delicate nature and high value of the cargo, and conditions unsuitable to maintaining system integrity compliance. Applicant representative: Glenn Wicks 202-457-7790 Responsive pleadings: Volga Dnepr served its applications on those U.S. carriers operating large all-cargo aircraft. Each carrier indicated that it did not have aircraft available to conduct the proposed operations and that it had no comment or did not oppose grant of the requested authority to Volga-Dnepr. Statutory Standards: Under 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g), we may authorize a foreign air carrier to carry commercial traffic between U.S. points (i.e., cabotage traffic) under limited circumstances. Specifically, we must find that the authority is required in the public interest; that because of an emergency created by unusual circumstances not arising in the normal course of business the traffic cannot be accommodated by U.S. carriers holding certificates under 49 U.S.C. section 41102; that all possible efforts have been made to place the traffic on U.S. carriers; and that the transportation is necessary to avoid unreasonable hardship to the traffic involved (an additional required finding, concerning emergency transportation during labor disputes, was not relevant here). For examples of earlier grants of authority of this type, see, e.g., Order 2001-5-23. DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: October 1, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: October 1-13, 2002 Basis for approval: We found that the applications met all the relevant criteria of 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) for the grant of an exemption of this type and that the grant was required in the public interest. Specifically, we were persuaded that the need to move the cargo promptly in order to complete scheduled assembly and mission integration activities and subsequent launch deadlines; the fact that the cargo could not be transported by surface either in time to meet that schedule or without the risk of damage; the potential negative impact of delivery delays; and the unique, outsized nature of the cargo, constituted an emergency not arising in the normal course of business. Moreover, based on the Page 2 - Dockets OST-2002-13426 & OST-2002-13461 representations of the U.S. carriers, we concluded that no U.S. carrier had aircraft available which could be used to conduct the operations at issue here. We also found that grant of Volga-Dnepr’s requests would prevent undue hardship to the cargo and Lockheed Martin. Finally, we found that the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations (see, e.g., Order 94-10-13). Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to our standard exemption conditions (attached) and to the condition that Volga-Dnepr comply with an FAA-approved flight routing for the authorized flights. Action taken by: Read C. Van de Water Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 7/2002 The applicant subsequently advised us informally that this flight had been delayed until on/about October 3, 2002.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.283813
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13461-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13523-0016
Notice
"2002-10-23T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Antonov Design Bureau
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 23, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13523 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Antonov Design Bureau Date Filed: 10/18/02, as supplemented 10/21/02 Relief requested: Seven-day extension of the effective period of the 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) exemption authority granted to Antonov by Order 2002-10-13, and the flexibility to coterminalize Ontario and/or Victorville, CA, with Seattle, WA. In support of its request Antonov stated that West Coast port operations continue to be impaired and the movement of containers off ships has proceeded more slowly than predicted; that Honda’s most critically needed parts shipments are now stalled at its southern California seaport gateways; that, as result of these circumstances, the the situation at Honda’s production lines is even more serious; and that this extension and coterminalization flexibility will be instrumental in helping address Honda’s serious parts supply crisis and maintain production levels at U.S. plants. Applicant representative: Alexander Van der Bellen 202-663-8060 DOT analyst: Barbara Schools 202-366-2401 Responsive pleadings: Antonov served its application on those U.S. carriers operating large all-cargo aircraft. Except as noted below, each carrier indicated that it did not have aircraft available to conduct the proposed operation and that it had no comment or did not oppose grant of the requested authority to Antonov. Statutory Standards: Under 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g), we may authorize a foreign air carrier to carry commercial traffic between U.S. points (i.e., cabotage traffic) under limited circumstances. Specifically, we must find that the authority is required in the public interest; that because of an emergency created by unusual circumstances not arising in the normal course of business the traffic cannot be accommodated by U.S. carriers holding certificates under 49 U.S.C. section 41102; that all possible efforts have been made to place the traffic on U.S. carriers; and that the transportation is necessary to avoid unreasonable hardship to the traffic involved (an additional required finding, concerning emergency transportation during labor disputes, was not relevant here). For examples of earlier grants of authority of this type, see, e.g., Order 2001-5-23. DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: October 23, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: October 23, 2002 - October 30, 2002 Basis for approval: We found in the circumstances presented that our previous public interest findings supporting grant of this authority remained valid and that Antonov’s request for extension and coterminalization flexibility met all the relevant criteria of 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) for the grant of an exemption of this type and that the grant was required in the public interest. (See Order 2002-10-13 dated October 9, 2002, in this docket.) Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to our standard exemption conditions (attached) and to the condition that Antonov comply with an FAA-approved flight routing for the authorized flights. Action taken by: Read C. Van de Water Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security;1 (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). __________________ 1 To assure compliance with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security, the holder should, before commencing any new service (including charter flights) from a foreign airport that would be the holder’s last point of departure for the United States, inform its Principal Security Inspector of its plans. U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 10/2002 By Order 2002-10-13, dated October 9, 2002, the Department granted Antonov an exemption pursuant to 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) to permit it to operate a maximum of 20 one-way cargo charter flights from Seattle, WA, to Columbus, OH, during the period ending October 20, 2002. In its original application for this authority, Antonov stated that the flights were on behalf of Honda Motors Ltd. and Honda of America, which required urgent delivery of shipping containers holding motor vehicle parts and components that had been held up by the West Coast port lockout; that once the lockout ended, Honda needed to move the containers without further delay to its U.S. manufacturing facilities in order to maintain production; and that no U.S. carrier was in a position to provide alternate lift that would meet its requirements. Arrow Air, Inc., noted its answer filed in response to Antonov’s original application, but had no further comments.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.287574
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13523-0016/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13554-0002
Notice
"2002-10-11T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Cargo Airline
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 11, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13554 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Cargo Airline Date Filed: October 8, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption pursuant to 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) to permit it to operate one one-way cargo charter flight between Philadelphia, PA, and Moffet Field, CA, on/about October 14, 2002, using its AN-124 aircraft, to transport outsized cargo consisting of one Rainbow Satellite Antenna Deck payload and associated equipment, on behalf of Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems. The applicant stated that Lockheed Martin required urgent delivery of the satellite to complete final assembly and mission integration activities in order to meet scheduled shipment deadlines to Cape Canaveral for subsequent launch processing; that the cargo is too large for transportation on U.S. carrier aircraft; and that surface transportation is not feasible because of the time involved, the adverse effect a long road trip could have on the high-value cargo, and the cargo’s size and highway oversized load restrictions. Applicant representative: Glenn Wicks 202-457-7790 Responsive pleadings: Volga-Dnepr served its application on those U.S. carriers operating large all-cargo aircraft. Each carrier indicated that it did not have aircraft available to conduct the proposed operation and that it had no comment or did not oppose grant of the requested authority to Volga-Dnepr. Statutory Standards: Under 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g), we may authorize a foreign air carrier to carry commercial traffic between U.S. points (i.e., cabotage traffic) under limited circumstances. Specifically, we must find that the authority is required in the public interest; that because of an emergency created by unusual circumstances not arising in the normal course of business the traffic cannot be accommodated by U.S. carriers holding certificates under 49 U.S.C. section 41102; that all possible efforts have been made to place the traffic on U.S. carriers; and that the transportation is necessary to avoid unreasonable hardship to the traffic involved (an additional required finding, concerning emergency transportation during labor disputes, was not relevant here). For examples of earlier grants of authority of this type, see, e.g., Order 2001-5-23. DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: October 11, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: October 14-21, 2002 Basis for approval: We found that the application met all the relevant criteria of 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) for the grant of an exemption of this type and that the grant was required in the public interest. Specifically, we were persuaded that the need to move the satellite promptly in order to complete scheduled assembly and integration activities and subsequent launch processing deadlines; the fact that the satellite could not be transported by surface either in time to meet that schedule or without the risk of damage; the potential negative impact of delivery delays; and the unique, outsized nature of the cargo, constituted an emergency not arising in the normal course of business. Moreover, based on the representations of the U.S. carriers, we concluded that no U.S. carrier had aircraft available which could be used to conduct the operation at issue here. We also found that grant of Volga-Dnepr’s request would prevent undue hardship to the cargo and Lockheed Martin. Finally, we found that the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations (see, e.g., Order 94-10-13). Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to our standard exemption conditions (attached) and to the condition that Volga-Dnepr comply with an FAA-approved flight routing for the authorized flight. Action taken by: Read C. Van de Water Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 6/2002
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.289783
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13554-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13572-0002
Notice
"2002-10-11T04:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re: Antonov Design Bureau
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on October 11, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13572 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Antonov Design Bureau Date Filed: October 9, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption pursuant to 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) to operate one one-way cargo charter flight from Wilmington, OH, to Seattle/Boeing Field, WA, during the period October 14-21, 2002, using its AN-124 aircraft to transport one outsized GE90-115 aircraft engine and related tooling and components. Antonov stated that General Electric Aircraft Engines (GEAE) urgently required delivery of the second of two GE90-225 flight test certification engines for installation on a newly designed Boeing-777-300ER airplane that is scheduled to be completely assembled by November in order to undergo subsequent FAA certification flight testing, and that timely delivery of the engine is a critical component of the overall airplane rollout and certification schedule. It further stated that the size of the engine, and the distance involved, foreclose the use of surface transportation for timely delivery; that in order to avoid undue delays, shipment by air was essential; and that because of the size of the cargo transportation on U.S. carrier aircraft was not possible. Applicant representative: Sheryl Israel 202-663-8060 Responsive pleadings: Antonov served its application on those U.S. carriers operating large all-cargo aircraft. Each carrier indicated that it did not have aircraft available to conduct the proposed operation and that it had no comment or did not oppose grant of the requested authority to Antonov. Statutory Standards: Under 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g), we may authorize a foreign air carrier to carry commercial traffic between U.S. points (i.e., cabotage traffic) under limited circumstances. Specifically, we must find that the authority is required in the public interest; that because of an emergency created by unusual circumstances not arising in the normal course of business the traffic cannot be accommodated by U.S. carriers holding certificates under 49 U.S.C. section 41102; that all possible efforts have been made to place the traffic on U.S. carriers; and that the transportation is necessary to avoid unreasonable hardship to the traffic involved (an additional required finding, concerning emergency transportation during labor disputes, was not relevant here). For examples of earlier grants of authority of this type, see, e.g., Order 2001-5-23. DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: October 11, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: October 14-21, 2002 Basis for approval: We found that the application met all the relevant criteria of 49 U.S.C. section 40109(g) for the grant of an exemption of this type and that the grant was required in the public interest. Specifically, we were persuaded that GEAE’s need to transport the engine without delay to in order to meet scheduled assembly and certification flight testing deadlines, and the fact that the cargo could not be transported by other modes in time to meet those deadlines, constituted an emergency not arising in the normal course of business. Moreover, based on the representations of the U.S. carriers, we concluded that no U.S. carrier had aircraft available which would be used to conduct the operation at issue here. Finally, we found that the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations (see, e.g., Notice of Action Taken dated August 26, 2002, in Docket OST-96-1454). Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to our standard exemption conditions (attached) and to the condition that Antonov comply with an FAA-approved flight routing for the authorized flight. Action taken by: Read C. Van de Water Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security; (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 7/2002
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.292280
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13572-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13687-0002
Notice
"2002-12-02T05:00:00"
2002-12-4 Order Granting Emergency Exemption
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on the 2nd day of December, 2002 Application of Aloha Island Air, Inc. OST Dkt. 2002-13687 (d/b/a Island Air, Inc.) Emergency Exemption from the Requirements of 14 CFR 382.40a Served: December 4, 2002 Order Granting Emergency Exemption By this order, we grant Aloha Island Air, Inc., d/b/a Island Air, Inc., (“Island”), a commuter air carrier, a limited emergency exemption from the requirements of 14 CFR 382.40a from December 4, 2002, through February 1, 2003. The cited provision requires that air carriers have in place mechanical lifts for assisting in the embarkation of disabled passengers at airports which lack level-entry loading bridges or mobile lounges. The provision applies to points enplaning at least 10,000 passengers a year which are served by aircraft of more than 30 seats and affects a number of points served by Island. Although not specifically requested, we are also granting an exemption to the State of Hawaii from the requirements of 49 CFR 27.72. The State, as the operator of the airports which are the subject of the carrier’s request, has joint responsibility with the carrier for implementing the boarding assistance requirement at issue here. Since the State of Hawaii’s Department of Transportation filed comments in support of the carrier’s application, we will consider the carrier’s and State’s filings as a joint request for relief from 14 CFR 382.40a and 49 CFR 27.72. Background In an application filed October 25, 2002, Island requested that the mechanical lift requirement, which currently becomes effective December 4, be deferred with respect to the carrier’s operations at five airports in Hawaii for a period of approximately two months. In support of its application, the carrier states that additional time to implement the rule is needed in order to transport the lifts to Honolulu, Kahului, Kapalua, Lanai, and Molokai, the five airports subject to the request. The mechanical lifts, the carrier states, have been ordered and were scheduled for transportation by ocean freight in early October 2002. The recent extended labor dispute affecting West Coast ports, however, caused delays in the shipping date. Further, increasing the shipping time, the mechanical lifts must travel via barge from Honolulu, Oahu to reach the Kahului, Kapalua, Lanai, and Molokai airports. Given the size of the mechanical lifts, Island cannot transport them on its aircraft. Island also asserts that the number of estimated passenger enplanements at the affected airports during December 2002 and January 2003 should be small. Specifically, during December 2002 and January 2003 the number of enplanements at Honolulu, Kahului, Kapalua, Lanai, and Molokai airports are expected to be 26,719, 3,538, 7,315, 8,027, and 14,612, respectively. The percentage of these passengers requesting mechanical lifts should be very small. Island also states that until it receives the mechanical lifts it will ensure that any disabled travelers at the five airports affected will be accommodated in a dignified, safe manner otherwise consistent with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 382. The State of Hawaii has filed comments in support of the carrier’s application. According to the State of Hawaii’s Department of Transportation, it has negotiated and entered into an agreement with Island allocating the responsibility of regulatory compliance on this issue. As such, it urges the granting of the temporary exemption. Decision Upon review of the carrier’s application, we have decided to grant Island’s request for an emergency exemption from 14 CFR 382.40a. In reaching this decision, we note that the carrier already had taken steps that would have resulted in compliance with the lift requirement, and only due to circumstances that were unforeseeable and beyond its control is this exemption necessary. We further note that the number of passengers affected by the delayed compliance appears to be small. This small number of enplanements by disabled air travelers will limit the number of assistance requests made during the two months in which the exemption will be effective. Moreover, the carrier has assured us that it will provide dignified, safe boarding of all such passengers. On these bases, we find that granting the requested emergency exemption from the provision requiring the availability of mechanical lifts at the Honolulu, Kahului, Kapalua, Lanai, and Molokai airports is consistent with the public interest. As the operator of the airports involved, the State of Hawaii is subject to the requirements of 49 CFR Part 27, which applies the mandate of non-discrimination toward disabled persons to recipients of federal funds under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794). Pursuant to 49 CFR 27.72 and 14 CFR 382.40a, air carriers and airport operators are jointly responsible for compliance with the boarding assistance requirements, including the provision of mechanical lifts. In view of the State of Hawaii’s support of the carrier’s application, we will consider the carrier’s application as requesting similar relief for the airport operator and will grant the State of Hawaii an exemption from the requirements of 49 CFR 27.72, to the extent that it obligates the State to provide mechanical lifts at the Honolulu, Kahului, Kapalua, Lanai, and Molokai airports, for the same period stated in the carrier’s application. ACCORDINGLY, acting under the authority of 49 CFR 5.13, 1. Aloha Island Air, Inc., d/b/a Island Air, Inc., is granted an exemption from the requirement of 14 CFR 382.40a that it have in place mechanical lifts to assist in boarding disabled passengers at the Honolulu, Kahului, Kapalua, Lanai, and Molokai airports for the period from December 4, 2002, to February 1, 2003; 2. The Hawaii Department of Transportation, as the operator of airports at Honolulu, Kahului, Kapalua, Lanai, and Molokai, is granted an exemption from 49 CFR 27.72 to the extent that it requires that the airport operator have in place mechanical lifts to assist in boarding disabled passengers at those locations for the period from December 4, 2002, through February 1, 2003; and 3. A copy of this order will be served on Aloha Island Air, Inc., and the Hawaii Department of Transportation. The action in this order is effective when taken and the filing of a petition for review shall not alter its effectiveness. By: Norman Y. Mineta Secretary (SEAL) An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov PAGE 2 Order 2002-12-4
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.297459
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13687-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13705-0002
Notice
"2002-12-16T05:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re US Airways, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Issued by the Department of Transportation on December 16, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13705 ________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Application of US Airways, Inc. filed 10/29/02 for: XX Exemption under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between points in the United States, on the one hand, and Anguilla, Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Barthelemy, on the other. US Airways intends to operate this service pursuant to a code-share arrangement with Windward Islands Airways International, N.V. Application of Windward Islands Airways International, N.V. filed 10/29/02 for: XX Statement of authorization under 14 CFR Part 212 to: Permit Windward Islands Airways to display the designator code of US Airways in conjunction with foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail on flights operated by Windward between St. Maarten, on the one hand, and Anguilla, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barthelemy, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Antigua, on the other. Applicant rep: Joel Stephen Burton (202) 383-5300 DOT Analyst: Sylvia Moore, (202) 366-6519 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted (subject to conditions, see below) The exemption authority granted to US Airways was effective when taken: December 16, 2002, through December 16, 2004. The statement of authorization granted was effective when taken: December 16, 2002, and will remain in effect indefinitely, subject to the conditions listed below. Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted to serve Saba and St. Eustatius is consistent with the aviation agreement between the United States and the Netherlands Antilles; the authority granted to serve St. Barthelemy is consistent with the aviation agreement between the United States and France; and the authority granted to serve Anguilla is consistent with the aviation agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom. (See Reverse Side) 2 Except to the extent exempted or waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX Holder’s certificates of public convenience and necessity (US Airways) XX Holder’s foreign air carrier permit (Windward Islands Airways) XX Standard exemption conditions (attached) The statement of authorization granted is subject to the following conditions: (a) The statement of authorization will remain in effect only as long as (i) US Airways and Windward Islands Airways continue to hold the necessary underlying authority to operate the code-share services at issue, and (ii) the code-share agreement providing for the code-share operations remains in effect. (b) US Airways and Windward Islands must promptly notify the Department (Office of International Aviation) if the code-share agreement providing for the code-share operations is no longer effective or if the carriers decide to cease operating all or a portion of the approved code-share services. Such notices should be filed in Docket OST-2002-13609.2 (c) The code-sharing conducted under this authority must comply with Part 257 and with any amendments to the Department’s regulations concerning code-share arrangements that may be adopted. Notwithstanding any provisions in the contract between the carriers, our approval here is expressly conditioned upon the requirements that the subject foreign air transportation be sold in the name of the carrier holding out such service in the computer reservation systems and elsewhere; that the carrier selling such transportation (i.e., the carrier shown on the ticket) accept responsibility for the entirety of the code-share journey for all obligations established in its contract of carriage with the passenger; and that the passenger liability of the operating carrier be unaffected. Further, the operating carrier shall not permit the code of its U.S. air carrier code-sharing partner to be carried on any flights that enter, depart, or transit the airspace of any area for whose airspace the Federal Aviation Administration has issued a flight prohibition. (d) The authority granted here is specifically conditioned so that neither US Airways nor Windward Islands Airways shall give any force or effect to any contractual provisions between themselves that are contrary to these conditions. ________________________________________________________________________ __________ On the basis of data officially noticeable under Rule 24(g) of the Department's regulations, we found US Airways, Inc. qualified to provide the exemption services authorized. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy, Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp APPENDIX U.S. CARRIER Standard Exemption Conditions In the conduct of operations authorized by the attached notice, the applicant(s) shall: (1) Hold at all times effective operating authority from the government of each country served; (2) Comply with applicable requirements concerning oversales contained in 14 CFR 250 (for scheduled operations, if authorized); (3) Comply with the requirements for reporting data contained in 14 CFR 241; (4) Comply with requirements for minimum insurance coverage, and for certifying that coverage to the Department, contained in 14 CFR 205; (5) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (6) Comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration Regulations and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security;1 and (7) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department of Transportation, with all applicable orders and regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. The authority granted shall be effective only during the period when the holder is in compliance with the conditions imposed above. 10/2002 In connection with US Airways’ proposed code share to these points, the joint applicants state that US Airways already holds authority for U.S.-St. Kitts and Nevis, U.S.-Antigua, and U.S.-France services. (See Notices of Action Taken dated January 16, 2002, July 5, 2001, and Order 2002-5-25, respectively.) 2 We expect this notification to be received within 10 days of such non-effectiveness or of such decision. 1 To assure compliance with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security, the holder should, before commencing any new service (including charter flights) to or from a foreign airport, inform its Principal Security Inspector of its plans.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.301240
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13705-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13737-0003
Notice
"2002-11-13T05:00:00"
Notice Establishing Common Answer and Reply Dates
Posted: 11/13/02 3:10 p.m. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. _______________________________ In the Matter of Requests for Interim Authority for U.S.-Hong Kong Fifth-Freedom All-Cargo Frequencies Dockets OST-2002-13737, 2002-13795, 2002-13804, 2002-13816 ________________________________ Served: November 13, 2002 Notice Establishing Common Answer and Reply Dates Under the October 19, 2002, Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (Hong Kong), U.S. carriers may, among other things, provide a frequency-limited number of additional fifth-freedom services. By Notice served October 29, 2002, the Department solicited applications and requests for all of the new U.S. carrier rights set forth in the MOU that are frequency-limited, with the exception of those all-cargo frequencies that do not become available until the third year of the phase-in. These applications were to be filed by November 5, 2002. Eight U.S. carriers filed for all-cargo fifth-freedom frequencies. The Department is in the process of establishing procedures for those applications and will issue an order on such procedures in the near future. In addition to the requested applications, four U.S. carriers (Federal Express, Northwest, Polar, and United Parcel Service) have filed separate applications for immediate, interim allocation of the available frequencies, and each seeks a different shortened answer period for responses to the respective applications. Under the Department’s regulations, the normal answer period for frequency requests is fifteen days after filing of an application, with replies due seven days after the last day for filing an answer. In order to facilitate our consideration of these applications in an expeditious fashion, we have decided to establish a common date for the filing of answers and for the filing of replies for the four applications seeking interim authority. Therefore, acting under authority assigned in 14 CFR 385.3, we will require that answers to the applications filed in the above-captioned Dockets be filed no later than Monday, November 18, 2002, and that replies be filed no later than Wednesday, November 20, 2002. While these dates will shorten the answer period for three applications and the reply period for all applications, we believe that the public interest will best be served by establishing the common dates and will eliminate any confusion as to filing dates for these related applications. We authorize service of documents by facsimile and by electronic mail. We will serve this notice by facsimile or email on all parties served with the four requests for immediate interim frequencies. By: PAUL L. GRETCH Director, Office of International Aviation (SEAL) Dated: November 13, 2002 An electronic version of this notice is available on the World Wide Web at HYPERLINK "http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp" http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Federal Express, Docket OST-2002-13737, filed November 1, 2002; Northwest, Docket OST-13804, filed November 7, 2002; Polar Air Cargo, Docket OST-13795, filed November 7, 2002; and UPS, filed November 12, 2002. 14 CFR 302.307 and 14 CFR 302.308.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.305405
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13737-0003/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13795-0002
Notice
"2002-11-13T05:00:00"
Notice Establishing Common Answer and Reply Dates
Posted: 11/13/02 3:10 p.m. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. _______________________________ In the Matter of Requests for Interim Authority for U.S.-Hong Kong Fifth-Freedom All-Cargo Frequencies Dockets OST-2002-13737, 2002-13795, 2002-13804, 2002-13816 ________________________________ Served: November 13, 2002 Notice Establishing Common Answer and Reply Dates Under the October 19, 2002, Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (Hong Kong), U.S. carriers may, among other things, provide a frequency-limited number of additional fifth-freedom services. By Notice served October 29, 2002, the Department solicited applications and requests for all of the new U.S. carrier rights set forth in the MOU that are frequency-limited, with the exception of those all-cargo frequencies that do not become available until the third year of the phase-in. These applications were to be filed by November 5, 2002. Eight U.S. carriers filed for all-cargo fifth-freedom frequencies. The Department is in the process of establishing procedures for those applications and will issue an order on such procedures in the near future. In addition to the requested applications, four U.S. carriers (Federal Express, Northwest, Polar, and United Parcel Service) have filed separate applications for immediate, interim allocation of the available frequencies, and each seeks a different shortened answer period for responses to the respective applications. Under the Department’s regulations, the normal answer period for frequency requests is fifteen days after filing of an application, with replies due seven days after the last day for filing an answer. In order to facilitate our consideration of these applications in an expeditious fashion, we have decided to establish a common date for the filing of answers and for the filing of replies for the four applications seeking interim authority. Therefore, acting under authority assigned in 14 CFR 385.3, we will require that answers to the applications filed in the above-captioned Dockets be filed no later than Monday, November 18, 2002, and that replies be filed no later than Wednesday, November 20, 2002. While these dates will shorten the answer period for three applications and the reply period for all applications, we believe that the public interest will best be served by establishing the common dates and will eliminate any confusion as to filing dates for these related applications. We authorize service of documents by facsimile and by electronic mail. We will serve this notice by facsimile or email on all parties served with the four requests for immediate interim frequencies. By: PAUL L. GRETCH Director, Office of International Aviation (SEAL) Dated: November 13, 2002 An electronic version of this notice is available on the World Wide Web at HYPERLINK "http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp" http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Federal Express, Docket OST-2002-13737, filed November 1, 2002; Northwest, Docket OST-13804, filed November 7, 2002; Polar Air Cargo, Docket OST-13795, filed November 7, 2002; and UPS, filed November 12, 2002. 14 CFR 302.307 and 14 CFR 302.308.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.308453
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13795-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13804-0002
Notice
"2002-11-13T05:00:00"
Notice Establishing Common Answer and Reply Dates
Posted: 11/13/02 3:10 p.m. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. _______________________________ In the Matter of Requests for Interim Authority for U.S.-Hong Kong Fifth-Freedom All-Cargo Frequencies Dockets OST-2002-13737, 2002-13795, 2002-13804, 2002-13816 ________________________________ Served: November 13, 2002 Notice Establishing Common Answer and Reply Dates Under the October 19, 2002, Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (Hong Kong), U.S. carriers may, among other things, provide a frequency-limited number of additional fifth-freedom services. By Notice served October 29, 2002, the Department solicited applications and requests for all of the new U.S. carrier rights set forth in the MOU that are frequency-limited, with the exception of those all-cargo frequencies that do not become available until the third year of the phase-in. These applications were to be filed by November 5, 2002. Eight U.S. carriers filed for all-cargo fifth-freedom frequencies. The Department is in the process of establishing procedures for those applications and will issue an order on such procedures in the near future. In addition to the requested applications, four U.S. carriers (Federal Express, Northwest, Polar, and United Parcel Service) have filed separate applications for immediate, interim allocation of the available frequencies, and each seeks a different shortened answer period for responses to the respective applications. Under the Department’s regulations, the normal answer period for frequency requests is fifteen days after filing of an application, with replies due seven days after the last day for filing an answer. In order to facilitate our consideration of these applications in an expeditious fashion, we have decided to establish a common date for the filing of answers and for the filing of replies for the four applications seeking interim authority. Therefore, acting under authority assigned in 14 CFR 385.3, we will require that answers to the applications filed in the above-captioned Dockets be filed no later than Monday, November 18, 2002, and that replies be filed no later than Wednesday, November 20, 2002. While these dates will shorten the answer period for three applications and the reply period for all applications, we believe that the public interest will best be served by establishing the common dates and will eliminate any confusion as to filing dates for these related applications. We authorize service of documents by facsimile and by electronic mail. We will serve this notice by facsimile or email on all parties served with the four requests for immediate interim frequencies. By: PAUL L. GRETCH Director, Office of International Aviation (SEAL) Dated: November 13, 2002 An electronic version of this notice is available on the World Wide Web at HYPERLINK "http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp" http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Federal Express, Docket OST-2002-13737, filed November 1, 2002; Northwest, Docket OST-13804, filed November 7, 2002; Polar Air Cargo, Docket OST-13795, filed November 7, 2002; and UPS, filed November 12, 2002. 14 CFR 302.307 and 14 CFR 302.308.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.322999
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13804-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13816-0002
Notice
"2002-11-13T05:00:00"
Notice Establishing Common Answer and Reply Dates
Posted: 11/13/02 3:10 p.m. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. _______________________________ In the Matter of Requests for Interim Authority for U.S.-Hong Kong Fifth-Freedom All-Cargo Frequencies Dockets OST-2002-13737, 2002-13795, 2002-13804, 2002-13816 ________________________________ Served: November 13, 2002 Notice Establishing Common Answer and Reply Dates Under the October 19, 2002, Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (Hong Kong), U.S. carriers may, among other things, provide a frequency-limited number of additional fifth-freedom services. By Notice served October 29, 2002, the Department solicited applications and requests for all of the new U.S. carrier rights set forth in the MOU that are frequency-limited, with the exception of those all-cargo frequencies that do not become available until the third year of the phase-in. These applications were to be filed by November 5, 2002. Eight U.S. carriers filed for all-cargo fifth-freedom frequencies. The Department is in the process of establishing procedures for those applications and will issue an order on such procedures in the near future. In addition to the requested applications, four U.S. carriers (Federal Express, Northwest, Polar, and United Parcel Service) have filed separate applications for immediate, interim allocation of the available frequencies, and each seeks a different shortened answer period for responses to the respective applications. Under the Department’s regulations, the normal answer period for frequency requests is fifteen days after filing of an application, with replies due seven days after the last day for filing an answer. In order to facilitate our consideration of these applications in an expeditious fashion, we have decided to establish a common date for the filing of answers and for the filing of replies for the four applications seeking interim authority. Therefore, acting under authority assigned in 14 CFR 385.3, we will require that answers to the applications filed in the above-captioned Dockets be filed no later than Monday, November 18, 2002, and that replies be filed no later than Wednesday, November 20, 2002. While these dates will shorten the answer period for three applications and the reply period for all applications, we believe that the public interest will best be served by establishing the common dates and will eliminate any confusion as to filing dates for these related applications. We authorize service of documents by facsimile and by electronic mail. We will serve this notice by facsimile or email on all parties served with the four requests for immediate interim frequencies. By: PAUL L. GRETCH Director, Office of International Aviation (SEAL) Dated: November 13, 2002 An electronic version of this notice is available on the World Wide Web at HYPERLINK "http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp" http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Federal Express, Docket OST-2002-13737, filed November 1, 2002; Northwest, Docket OST-13804, filed November 7, 2002; Polar Air Cargo, Docket OST-13795, filed November 7, 2002; and UPS, filed November 12, 2002. 14 CFR 302.307 and 14 CFR 302.308.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.325199
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13816-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13979-0002
Notice
"2002-12-23T05:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re Laker Airways (Bahamas) Limited
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on December 23, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13979 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: Laker Airways (Bahamas) Limited Date Filed: December 2, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 U.S.C. 41301 to conduct scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property and mail between Freeport, Bahamas, and Boston, MA, on a coterminal basis with currently authorized U.S.-Bahamas services. If renewal, date and citation of last action: New authority Applicant representative: Pierre Murphy 202-822-8050 DOT analyst: Barbara Schools 202-366-2401 Responsive pleadings: None DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: December 23, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: December 23, 2002 - December 23, 2003 Basis for approval (bilateral agreement/reciprocity): Reciprocity Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: X Standard exemption conditions (attached) X Foreign air carrier permit conditions (Order 96-6-45) Special conditions/Partial grant/Denial basis/Remarks: Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ We found that the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security;1 (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). __________________ 1 To assure compliance with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security, the holder should, before commencing any new service (including charter flights) from a foreign airport that would be the holder’s last point of departure for the United States, inform its Principal Security Inspector of its plans. U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 10/2002
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.330957
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13979-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13991-0009
Notice
"2002-12-20T05:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re US Airways, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, DC Issued by the Department of Transportation on December 20, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-13991 ________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Application of US Airways, Inc. filed 12/3/02 for: XX Exemption under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Shannon/Dublin, Ireland. Applicant rep: Joel Stephen Burton (202) 383-5300 DOT Analyst: Sylvia Moore, (202) 366-6519 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted (see below) The above action was effective when taken: December 20, 2002, through December 20, 2004 Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted is consistent with the aviation agreement between the United States and Ireland. Except to the extent exempted or waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX Holder’s certificates of public convenience and necessity XX Standard exemption conditions (attached) ________________________________________________________________________ __________ On the basis of data officially noticeable under Rule 24(g) of the Department's regulations, we found US Airways, Inc. qualified to provide the exemption services authorized. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy, Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp APPENDIX U.S. CARRIER Standard Exemption Conditions In the conduct of operations authorized by the attached notice, the applicant(s) shall: (1) Hold at all times effective operating authority from the government of each country served; (2) Comply with applicable requirements concerning oversales contained in 14 CFR 250 (for scheduled operations, if authorized); (3) Comply with the requirements for reporting data contained in 14 CFR 241; (4) Comply with requirements for minimum insurance coverage, and for certifying that coverage to the Department, contained in 14 CFR 205; (5) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (6) Comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration Regulations and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security;1 and (7) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department of Transportation, with all applicable orders and regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. The authority granted shall be effective only during the period when the holder is in compliance with the conditions imposed above. 10/2002 US Airways will operate this service on a seasonal basis beginning in or about May 2003. 1 To assure compliance with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security, the holder should, before commencing any new service (including charter flights) to or from a foreign airport, inform its Principal Security Inspector of its plans.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.334498
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13991-0009/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-13992-0002
Notice
"2002-12-23T05:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re Consorcio Aviacsa, S.A. de C.V.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on December 23, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN – DOCKET OST 2002-13992 _______________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Applicant: CONSORCIO AVIACSA, S.A. de C.V. Date Filed: December 3, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 USC section 41301 to permit the applicant to conduct scheduled, combination service between Monterrey, Mexico, and Chicago, Illinois. If renewal, date and citation of last action(s): New authority. Applicant representative(s): Jim J. Marquez, 703-850-4760 DOT analyst: Allen F. Brown, 202-366-2405 Responsive pleadings: None. DISPOSITION Action: Approved. Action date: December 23, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: December 23, 2002, through December 23, 2003. Basis for approval (bilateral agreement/reciprocity): United States-Mexico Air Transport Services Agreement. Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: Standard exemption conditions. Special conditions/Remarks: Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations; (3) grant of the authority was consistent with the public interest; and (4) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted/deferred/dismissed, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is avai慬汢⁥湯琠敨圠牯摬圠摩⁥敗⁢瑡ഺ瑨灴⼺搯獭搮 瑯朮癯⼯敲潰瑲⽳敲潰瑲彳癡慩楴湯愮灳
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.336419
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-13992-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-14001-0002
Notice
"2002-12-19T05:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re Continental Airlines, Inc.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on December 19, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST-2002-14001 ________________________________________________________________________ ___________________This serves as notice to the public of the action described below, taken by the Department official indicated (no additional confirming order will be issued in this matter). Application of CONTINENTAL AIRLINES, INC., filed 12/3/02, for: XX Exemption for two years under 49 U.S.C. 40109 to provide the following service: Scheduled foreign air transportation of persons, property, and mail between Memphis, Tennessee, and Mexico City, Mexico. Continental also seeks to combine this exemption authority with Continental’s other exemption and certificate authority. Continental states that it intends to provide this service pursuant to a code-share arrangement with Northwest Airlines, Inc. Applicant rep: R. Bruce Keiner, Jr. (202) 624-2500 DOT Analyst: Linda Lundell (202) 366-2336 D I S P O S I T I O N XX Granted (See Conditions below) The authority granted was effective when taken: December 19, 2002 , through December 19, 2004 . Action taken by: Paul L. Gretch, Director Office of International Aviation XX The authority granted is consistent with the aviation agreement between the United States and Mexico. Except to the extent exempted or waived, this authority is subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations indicated: XX Holder’s certificates of public convenience and necessity XX Standard Exemption Conditions (attached) ________________________________________________________________________ ___________ Special Conditions: The U.S.-Mexico exemption authority granted is subject to the dormancy notice requirements set forth in condition 7 of Appendix A of Order 88-10-2 and is limited to operations conducted on a code-share basis only. Consistent with our standard practice, the dormancy notice period will begin on Continental’s proposed startup date of February 13, 2003. The route integration authority granted to Continental is subject to the condition that any service provided under this exemption shall be consistent with all applicable agreements between the United States and the foreign countries involved. Furthermore, (a) nothing in the award of the route integration authority granted should be construed as conferring upon Continental rights (including fifth-freedom intermediate and/or beyond rights) to serve markets where U.S. carrier entry is limited unless Continental notifies the Department of its intent to serve such a market and unless and until the Department has completed any necessary carrier selection procedures to determine which carrier(s) should be authorized to exercise such rights); (b) should there be a request by any carrier to use the limited-entry route rights that are included in Continental’s authority by virtue of the route integration exemption granted here, but that are not then being used by Continental, the holding of such authority by route integration will not be considered as providing any preference for Continental in a competitive carrier selection proceeding to determine which carrier(s) should be entitled to use the authority at issue. ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________ On the basis of data officially noticeable under Rule 24(g) of the Department’s regulations, we found the applicant qualified to provide the services authorized. Under authority assigned by the Department in its regulations, 14 CFR Part 385, we found that (1) our action was consistent with Department policy; (2) grant of the application was consistent with the public interest; and (3) grant of the authority would not constitute a major regulatory action under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975. To the extent not granted, we denied all requests in the referenced Docket. We may amend, modify, or revoke the authority granted in this Notice at any time without hearing at our discretion. Persons entitled to petition the Department for review of the action set forth in this Notice under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR §385.30, may file their petitions within seven (7) days after the date of issuance of this Notice. This action was effective when taken, and the filing of a petition for review will not alter such effectiveness. An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp APPENDIX A U.S. CARRIER Standard Exemption Conditions In the conduct of operations authorized by the attached notice, the applicant(s) shall: (1) Hold at all times effective operating authority from the government of each country served; (2) Comply with applicable requirements concerning oversales contained in 14 CFR 250 (for scheduled operations, if authorized); (3) Comply with the requirements for reporting data contained in 14 CFR 241; (4) Comply with requirements for minimum insurance coverage, and for certifying that coverage to the Department, contained in 14 CFR 205; (5) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (6) Comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration Regulations and with all U.S. Government requirements concerning security; and (7) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department of Transportation, with all applicable orders and regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. The authority granted shall be effective only during the period when the holder is in compliance with the conditions imposed above. 10/2002 To assure compliance with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security, the holder should, before commencing any new service (including charter flights) to or from a foreign airport, inform its Principal Security Inspector of its plans.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.338599
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-14001-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-14049-0011
Notice
"2002-12-18T05:00:00"
Notice Establishing Response Dates
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. _______________________________ In the Matter of Petitions for Reconsideration of Order 2002-12-11 (2002/2003 Hong Kong Fifth-Freedom All-Cargo Frequency Proceeding) Docket OST-2002-14049 ________________________________ Served: December 18, 2002 NOTICE ESTABLISHING RESPONSE DATES On December 10, 2002, the Department issued Order 2002-12-11, instituting the 2002/2003 Hong Kong Fifth-Freedom All-Cargo Frequency Proceeding, Docket OST-2002-14049, establishing a procedural schedule for the proceeding and attaching an evidence request for the use of the parties in the case. Under the established procedures, petitions for reconsideration of Order 2002-12-11 were to be filed December 17, 2002, and Direct Exhibits are to be filed January 7, 2003. The Department received three petitions for reconsideration of its instituting order on December 17, 2002. Polar Air Cargo, Inc. requests reconsideration of certain portions of the evidence request attached as Appendix A to Order 2002-12-11, and also requests that December 19, 2002, be established as an answer date for its petition. Federal Express filed two separate petitions, one seeking reconsideration of technical issues in the instituting order and another requesting that the Secretary of Transportation reconsider the Department’s interpretation of the U.S.-Hong Kong Memorandum of Understanding. Under the Department’s regulations, 14 CFR 302.14, answers to each of the petitions filed December 17, 2002, would be due on December 27, 2002. In order to establish more expeditiously a record to resolve the issues raised, we have decided to establish Monday, December 23, 2002, as the due date for answers to the petitions, and Friday, December 27, 2002, as the due date for replies. In view of the above, answers to the petitions for reconsideration of Order 2002-12-11 shall be filed by December 23, 2002, and replies shall be filed by December 27, 2002. 2 We will serve this Notice on all parties to this proceeding by email or facsimile and will authorize the parties to serve their responses by facsimile or email. By: READ C. VAN DE WATER Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (SEAL) Dated: December 18, 2002 An electronic version of this notice is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.341318
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-14049-0011/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-14049-0012
Notice
"2002-12-23T05:00:00"
Extension of Procedural Dates
Posted 12/23/02 9:32 am UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. _______________________________ 2002/2003 Hong Kong Fifth-Freedom All-Cargo Frequency Proceeding Docket OST-2002-14049 ________________________________ Served: December 23, 2002 EXTENSION OF PROCEDURAL DATES By Order 2002-12-11, the Department instituted the 2002/2003 Hong Kong Fifth-Freedom All-Cargo Frequency Proceeding, Docket OST-2002-14049, and established a procedural schedule for the proceeding. Under the established procedural schedule Direct Exhibits are due January 7, 2003; Rebuttal Exhibits, January 24, 2003; and Briefs, February 7, 2003. By Joint Motion, filed December 18, 2002, six of the seven applicants to the proceeding request (and state expressly that the seventh applicant does not oppose) the amendment of the procedural timetable as follows: Direct Exhibits, January 28, 2003; Rebuttal Exhibits, February 14, 2003; and Briefs, February 28, 2003. The Joint Movants state that the brief extension is necessary to enable them to prepare their exhibits and to develop an adequate evidentiary record, especially given the holiday season, and that the short extension should not affect the Department’s ability to make a timely decision awarding the frequencies. We will grant the motion. In the circumstances presented, we find that the Joint Movants have presented adequate justification for their request and that no applicant’s interests will be prejudiced by a grant. Accordingly, Direct Exhibits in the above-captioned proceeding shall be due January 28, 2003; Rebuttal Exhibits, February 14, 2003; and Briefs, February 28, 2003. We will serve this Notice on all parties to this proceeding by email or facsimile and will authorize the parties to serve their responses by facsimile or email. By: SUSAN MCDERMOTT Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (SEAL) Dated: December 23, 2002 An electronic version of this notice is available on the World Wide Web at http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp The Joint Motion was signed by counsel for Polar Air Cargo, Inc., Federal Express Corporation, Evergreen International Airlines, Inc., Northwest Airlines, Inc., Atlas Air, Inc., and Kalitta Air, Inc. The Joint Applicants state that they are authorized to state that UPS does not oppose the motion. Given that all the applicants in this proceeding have already registered support for, or non-opposition to, the Joint Motion, we are acting on the Joint Motion without awaiting completion of the answer period.
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.343665
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-14049-0012/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-14077-0002
Notice
"2002-12-16T05:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re Volga-Dnepr J.S. Cargo Airline
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on December 16, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST 2002-14077 This serves as interim notice to the public of the action described below, taken orally by the Department official indicated; the confirming order or other decision document will be issued as soon as possible. Applicant: Volga-Dnepr J.S. Cargo Airline Date Filed: December 16, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 U.S.C. 40109(g) to operate three one-way emergency cabotage cargo flights from Jackson, Mississippi or Houston, Texas, as required, to Anderson AFB, Guam, to transport outsized cargo consisting of high voltage line machinery, equipment and materials on behalf of Kellogg Brown & Root (KBR), during the period December 17-26, 2002. The applicant stated that the cargo is urgently needed to allow KBR to restore electrical power to U.S. Navy facilities on Guam following severe damage inflicted by a recent typhoon; that the cargo is too large for transportation on U.S.-carrier aircraft, and that surface transportation is not feasible because of the need to restore power to these U.S. military facilities as soon as possible. Applicant representative: Glenn Wicks, (202) 457-7790 DOT Analyst: George Wellington, (202) 366-2391 Responsive pleadings: The applicant served its application on those U.S. carriers operating large all-cargo aircraft. Each carrier indicated that it did not have aircraft available to conduct the proposed operation, and that it had no comment or did not oppose grant of the requested authority. Statutory Standards: Under 49 U.S.C. §40109(g), we may authorize a foreign air carrier to transport commercial traffic between U.S. points (i.e., cabotage traffic) only under limited circumstances. Specifically, we must find that the authority is in the public interest; that because of an emergency created by unusual circumstances not arising in the normal course of business, U.S. air carriers holding certificates under 49 U.S.C. §41102 cannot accommodate the traffic involved; that all possible efforts have been made to accommodate the traffic by using the resources of U.S. carriers; and that the authority is necessary to avoid unreasonable hardship to the traffic involved (an additional required finding, concerning emergency transportation during labor disputes, was not relevant here). For examples of earlier grants of authority of this type, see, e.g., Order 2001-5-23. DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: December 16, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: December 17 - 28, 2002 Basis for approval: We found that our action was consistent with all the relevant criteria of 49 U.S.C. 40109(g) for the grant of an exemption of this type, and that the grant of this authority was required in the public interest. Specifically, we were persuaded that the damage inflicted on the U.S. Navy power generating facilities on Guam by recent, extraordinary weather conditions; the need to restore those facilities promptly and ensure U.S. military readiness; and the unique, outsized nature of the cargo; constituted an emergency not arising in the normal course of business. Moreover, based on the representations of the U.S. carriers, we concluded that no U.S. carrier had aircraft available which could be used to conduct the operations at issue here. We also found that grant of this authority would prevent unreasonable hardship to KBR and the U.S. Navy. Finally, we found that the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operations (see, e.g., Order 94-10-13). Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to our standard exemption conditions (attached), and to the condition that VolgaDnepr comply with an FAA-approved flight routing for the authorized flights, and with any requisite Department of Defense authorizations. Action taken by: Read C. Van de Water Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security;1 (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). __________________ 1 To assure compliance with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security, the holder should, before commencing any new service (including charter flights) from a foreign airport that would be the holder’s last point of departure for the United States, inform its Principal Security Inspector of its plans. U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 10/2002
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.346233
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-14077-0002/content.doc" }
DOT-OST-2002-14100-0003
Notice
"2002-12-19T05:00:00"
Notice of Action Taken re Antonov Design Bureau
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on December 19, 2002 NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN -- DOCKET OST 2002-14100 This serves as interim notice to the public of the action described below, taken orally by the Department official indicated; the confirming order or other decision document will be issued as soon as possible. Applicant: Antonov Design Bureau Date Filed: December 17, 2002 Relief requested: Exemption from 49 U.S.C. 40109(g) to operate one one-way emergency cabotage cargo flight from Ontario or San Bernadino, California, to Andersen AFB, Guam, to transport outsized cargo consisting of two power generator units and ancillary relief supplies, on behalf of IAP Worldwide Services, during the period December 19-23, 2002. The applicant stated that the cargo is urgently needed to allow the Army Corps of Engineers to provide emergency power to affected communities on Guam following severe damage inflicted by a recent typhoon; that the cargo is too large for transportation on U.S.-carrier aircraft, and that surface transportation is not feasible because of the need to restore power to these communities as soon as possible. Applicant representative: Robert Cohn, Sheryl Israel, (202) 663-8060 DOT Analyst: George Wellington, (202) 366-2391 Responsive pleadings: The applicant served its application on those U.S. carriers operating large all-cargo aircraft. Each carrier indicated that it did not have aircraft available to conduct the proposed operation, and that it had no comment or did not oppose grant of the requested authority. Statutory Standards: Under 49 U.S.C. §40109(g), we may authorize a foreign air carrier to transport commercial traffic between U.S. points (i.e., cabotage traffic) only under limited circumstances. Specifically, we must find that the authority is in the public interest; that because of an emergency created by unusual circumstances not arising in the normal course of business, U.S. air carriers holding certificates under 49 U.S.C. §41102 cannot accommodate the traffic involved; that all possible efforts have been made to accommodate the traffic by using the resources of U.S. carriers; and that the authority is necessary to avoid unreasonable hardship to the traffic involved (an additional required finding, concerning emergency transportation during labor disputes, was not relevant here). For examples of earlier grants of authority of this type, see, e.g., Order 2001-5-23. DISPOSITION Action: Approved Action date: December 19, 2002 Effective dates of authority granted: December 19 - 25, 2002 Basis for approval: We found that our action was consistent with all the relevant criteria of 49 U.S.C. 40109(g) for the grant of an exemption of this type, and that the grant of this authority was required in the public interest. Specifically, we were persuaded that the damage inflicted on Guam by recent, extraordinary weather conditions; the need to restore electrical power to affected communities promptly; and the unique, outsized nature of the cargo; constituted an emergency not arising in the normal course of business. Moreover, based on the representations of the U.S. carriers, we concluded that no U.S. carrier had aircraft available which could be used to conduct the operation at issue here. We also found that grant of this authority would prevent unreasonable hardship to IAP Worldwide Services, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the affected communities on Guam. Finally, we found that the applicant was qualified to perform its proposed operation (see, e.g., Notice of Action Taken dated August 7, 2001, in Docket OST 1996-1454). Except to the extent exempted/waived, this authority is subject to our standard exemption conditions (attached), and to the condition that Antonov Design Bureau comply with an FAA-approved flight routing for the authorized flight, and with any requisite Department of Defense authorizations. Action taken by: Read C. Van de Water Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at: http://dms.dot.gov//reports/reports_aviation.asp Appendix A FOREIGN AIR CARRIER CONDITIONS OF AUTHORITY In the conduct of the operations authorized, the holder shall: (1) Not conduct any operations unless it holds a currently effective authorization from its homeland for such operations, and it has filed a copy of such authorization with the Department; (2) Comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration, including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Parts 129, 91, and 36, and with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security;1 (3) Comply with the requirements for minimum insurance coverage contained in 14 CFR Part 205, and, prior to the commencement of any operations under this authority, file evidence of such coverage, in the form of a completed OST Form 6411, with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Program Management Branch (AFS-260), Flight Standards Service (any changes to, or termination of, insurance also shall be filed with that office); (4) Not operate aircraft under this authority unless it complies with operational safety requirements at least equivalent to Annex 6 of the Chicago Convention; (5) Conform to the airworthiness and airman competency requirements of its Government for international air services; (6) Except as specifically exempted or otherwise provided for in a Department Order, comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 203, concerning waiver of Warsaw Convention liability limits and defenses; (7) Agree that operations under this authority constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity, for the purposes of 28 U.S.C. 1605(a), but only with respect to those actions or proceedings instituted against it in any court or other tribunal in the United States that are: (a) based on its operations in international air transportation that, according to the contract of carriage, include a point in the United States as a point of origin, point of destination, or agreed stopping place, or for which the contract of carriage was purchased in the United States; or (b) based on a claim under any international agreement or treaty cognizable in any court or other tribunal of the United States. In this condition, the term "international air transportation" means "international transportation" as defined by the Warsaw Convention, except that all States shall be considered to be High Contracting Parties for the purpose of this definition; (8) Except as specifically authorized by the Department, originate or terminate all flights to/from the United States in its homeland; (9) Comply with the requirements of 14 CFR Part 217, concerning the reporting of scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter data; (10) If charter operations are authorized, except as otherwise provided in the applicable aviation agreement, comply with the Department's rules governing charters (including 14 CFR Parts 212 and 380); and (11) Comply with such other reasonable terms, conditions, and limitations required by the public interest as may be prescribed by the Department, with all applicable orders or regulations of other U.S. agencies and courts, and with all applicable laws of the United States. This authority shall not be effective during any period when the holder is not in compliance with the conditions imposed above. Moreover, this authority cannot be sold or otherwise transferred without explicit Department approval under Title 49 of the U.S. Code (formerly the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended). __________________ 1 To assure compliance with all applicable U.S. Government requirements concerning security, the holder should, before commencing any new service (including charter flights) from a foreign airport that would be the holder’s last point of departure for the United States, inform its Principal Security Inspector of its plans. U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation (41301/40109) 10/2002
dot
2024-06-07T20:31:39.348837
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/DOT-OST-2002-14100-0003/content.doc" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0001-0044
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-03-19T05:00:00"
null
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY zz4/ WASHINGTON, D. C. 20460 Ms. Maude Grantham­ Richards Director, Farmington Electric Utility System 10 1 N. Browning Parkway Farmington, NM 87401­ 7995 OFFICE OF AIR AN0 RADIATION 1 ..... EPAAIR DOCKET 1 I Dear Ms. Grantham­ Richards: Thank you for your August 20,2001, letter to Senator Pete Domenici in which you enclose comments about the new source review ( NSR) program. Senator Domenici forwarded your letter to the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA) requesting that I respond directly to you. In responding, I want to briefly describe some of the ways my Office is working to improve the NSR program by promoting greater certainty and flexibility while assuring that environmental protection is maintained. I am optimistic that these efforts will appropriately address the issues you raise. First, Administrator Whitman is expected to announce soon a comprehensive strategy to significantly reduce power plant pollution. As part of this strategy, EPA is looking at ways to promote regulatory certainty at power plants including certainty regarding how NSR applies when power plants construct or modify equipment. Second, we are currently following through on a recommendation in the President's National Energy Policy that EPA, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and other relevant agencies, review NSR regulations and report to the President on the impact of the regulations on investment in new utility and refinery generation capacity, energy efficiency, and environmental protection. Once we release our comprehensive strategy, we will report to the President on whether additional improvements to the NSR program are needed. Third, we continue to develop improvements to the NSR program that build upon our 1996 NSR improvement proposal and the substantial stakeholder feedback we have received since then. Together these efforts should result in a much more effective NSR program. As we move forward, we are fully considering stakeholder comments like those you made. Since May, we have met with over 100 stakeholder groups, have held four public meetings, and have received comment letters from over 130,000 individuals and organizations. Several groups have expressed concerns similar to yours about the Detroit Edison determination and EPA's interpretation of the " routine maintenance" exemption from NSR, and we are currently evaluating how best to proceed on this and other issues. lntemet Address ( URL) e http: Nw. epa. gov RecycledFlecyclable * Printed with Vegetable Oil Based Inks on Recycled Paper ( Minimum 25% Postconsumer) 2 Thank you for your interest in this issue. I hope you will continue to stay involved in our efforts to improve the NSR program. I appreciate the opportunity to be of service and trust that the information provided is helpful to you. Sincerely, ­ 4) Jeffrey R. Holmstead Assistant Administrator cc: Senator Pete V. Domenici
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.460850
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0001-0044/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0001-0045
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-03-19T05:00:00"
null
The Honorable Mary L. Landrieu United States Senate Washington, DC 205 10­ 1 804 Dear Senator Landrieu: THE . ADMINISTRATOR Thank you for your letter of August 10,200 1, in which you describe concerns raised by many of your constituents about the . impact of the New Source Review ( NSR) program on energy production and use at industrial facilities. You dcscribe particular concerns about the potential for delays and uncertainty associated with NSR to discourage efficiency and reliability improvements and needed maintenance. I have heard similar concerns, and I believe that we must examine them in an effort to streamline NSR and promote greater flexibility and certainty while preserving the environmental benefits that the NSR program achieves. As you note, the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA) has been engaged in just such an examination, consistent with the National Energy Policy Report, which recobended that I, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and other relevant agencies, review NSR regulations, including administrative interpretation and implementation and report to the President on the impact of NSR on investment in new utility and refinery generation capacity, energy efficiency, and environmental protection. During this review, the EPA has received over 130,000 mitten comments, met with over 100 stakeholder groups, and heard from over 250 witnesses at four hearings around the country, including one in Baton Rouge. We are now in the process of reviewing those comments and determining what improvements to NSR are needed to address concerns l i e those raised by your constituents. I expect to issue my fmd report on NSR shortly after I propose a comprehensive strategy that will significantly reduce air pollution at power plants. Again, thank you for writing. I appreciate your interest in this issue and look forward to sharing our recommendations with you when our review is completed. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me or your staff may contact Diann Frantz of our Congressional and Intergovernmental Relations office at ( 202) 564­ 3668. Sincerely yours, L T M ­ Christine Todd Whitman internet Address ( URL) http:// w. epa. gov Rw; ycled/ Recyclable ­ Printed with Vegetable Oil Eased inks on Recycled Paper { Minimum 50% Postconsumer content)
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.467833
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0001-0045/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0004-0291
Rule
"2002-12-31T05:00:00"
Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) and Nonattainment New Source Review (NSR): Baseline Emissions Determination, Actual-to-Future-Actual Methodology, Plantwide Applicability Limitations, Clean Units, Pollution Control Projects
Tuesday, December 31, 2002 Part III Environmental Protection Agency 40 CFR Parts 51 and 52 Prevention of Significant Deterioration ( PSD) and Nonattainment New Source Review ( NSR); Final Rule and Proposed Rule VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4717 Sfmt 4717 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80186 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Parts 51 and 52 [ AD FRL 7414 5] RIN 2060 AE11 Prevention of Significant Deterioration ( PSD) and Nonattainment New Source Review ( NSR): Baseline Emissions Determination, Actual­ to­ Future­ Actual Methodology, Plantwide Applicability Limitations, Clean Units, Pollution Control Projects AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA). ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: The EPA is revising regulations governing the New Source Review ( NSR) programs mandated by parts C and D of title I of the Clean Air Act ( CAA or Act). These revisions include changes in NSR applicability requirements for modifications to allow sources more flexibility to respond to rapidly changing markets and to plan for future investments in pollution control and prevention technologies. Today's changes reflect EPA's consideration of discussions and recommendations of the Clean Air Act Advisory Committee's ( CAAAC) Subcommittee on NSR, Permits and Toxics, comments filed by the public, and meetings and discussions with interested stakeholders. The changes are intended to provide greater regulatory certainty, administrative flexibility, and permit streamlining, while ensuring the current level of environmental protection and benefit derived from the program and, in certain respects, resulting in greater environmental protection. EFFECTIVE DATE: This final rule is effective on March 3, 2003. ADDRESSES: Docket. Docket No. A 90 37, containing supporting information used to develop the proposed rule and the final rule, is available for public inspection and copying between 8 a. m. and 4: 30 p. m., Monday through Friday ( except government holidays) at the Air and Radiation Docket and Information Center ( 6102T), Room B 108, EPA West Building, 1301 Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20460; telephone ( 202) 566 1742, fax ( 202) 566 1741. A reasonable fee may be charged for copying docket materials. Worldwide Web ( WWW). In addition to being available in the docket, an electronic copy of this final rule will also be available on the WWW through the Technology Transfer Network ( TTN). Following signature, a copy of the rule will be posted on the TTN's policy and guidance page for newly proposed or promulgated rules: http:// www. epa. gov/ ttn/ oarpg. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Lynn Hutchinson, Information Transfer and Program Integration Division ( C339 03), U. S. EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, telephone 919 541 5795, or electronic mail at hutchinson. lynn@ epa. gov, for general questions on this rule. For questions on baseline emissions determination or the actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test, contact Mr. Dan DeRoeck, at the same address, telephone 919 541 5593, or electronic mail at deroeck. dan@ epa. gov. For questions on Plantwide Applicability Limitations ( PALs), contact Mr. Raj Rao, at the same address, telephone 919 541 5344, or electronic mail at rao. raj@ epa. gov. For questions on Clean Units, contact Mr. Juan Santiago, at the same address, telephone 919 541 1084, or electronic mail at santiago. juan@ epa. gov. For questions on Pollution Control Projects ( PCPs), contact Mr. Dave Svendsgaard, at the same address, telephone 919 541 2380, or electronic mail at svendsgaard. dave@ epa. gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Regulated Entities Entities potentially affected by this final action include sources in all industry groups. The majority of sources potentially affected are expected to be in the following groups. Industry group SIC a NAICSb Electric Services ............................................................................ 491 221111, 221112, 221113, 221119, 221121, 221122 Petroleum Refining ........................................................................ 291 32411 Chemical Processes ..................................................................... 281 325181, 32512, 325131, 325182, 211112, 325998, 331311, 325188 Natural Gas Transport .................................................................. 492 48621, 22121 Pulp and Paper Mills ..................................................................... 261 32211, 322121, 322122, 32213 Paper Mills .................................................................................... 262 322121, 322122 Automobile Manufacturing ............................................................ 371 336111, 336112, 336712, 336211, 336992, 336322, 336312, 33633, 33634, 33635, 336399, 336212, 336213 Pharmaceuticals ............................................................................ 283 325411, 325412, 325413, 325414 a Standard Industrial Classification b North American Industry Classification System. Entities potentially affected by this final action also include State, local, and tribal governments that are delegated authority to implement these regulations. Outline. The information presented in this preamble is organized as follows: I. Overview of Today's Final Action A. Background B. Introduction C. Overview of Final Actions 1. Determining Whether a Proposed Modification Results in a Significant Emissions Increase 2. CMA Exhibit B 3. Plantwide Applicability Limitations ( PALs) 4. Clean Units 5. Pollution Control Projects ( PCPs) 6. Major NSR Applicability 7. Enforcement 8. Enforceability II. Revisions to the Method for Determining Whether a Proposed Modification Results in a Significant Emissions Increase A. Introduction B. What We Proposed and How Today's Action Compares C. Baseline Actual Emissions For Existing Emissions Units Other than EUSGUs D. The Actual­ to­ projected­ actual Applicability Test E. Clarifying Changes to WEPCO Provisions for EUSGUs F. The `` Hybrid'' Applicability Test G. Legal Basis for Today's Action H. Response to Comments and Rationale for Today's Actions III. CMA Exhibit B IV. Plantwide Applicability Limitations ( PALs) A. Introduction B. Relevant Background C. Final Regulations for Actuals PALs D. Rationale for Today's Final Action on Actuals PALs V. Clean Units VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 17: 13 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80187 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 1 In this preamble the term `` we'' refers to EPA and the term `` you'' refers to major stationary sources of air pollution and their owners and operators. All other entities are referred to by their respective names ( for example, reviewing authorities.) A. Introduction B. Summary of 1996 Clean Unit Proposal C. Final Regulations for Clean Units D. Legal Basis for the Clean Unit Test E. Summary of Major Comments and Responses VI. Pollution Control Projects ( PCPs) A. Description and Purpose of This Action B. What We Proposed and How Today's Action Compares To It C. Legal Basis for PCP D. Implementation VII. Listed Hazardous Air Pollutants VIII. Effective Date for Today's Requirements IX. Administrative Requirements A. Executive Order 12866 Regulatory Planning and Review B. Executive Order 13132 Federalism C. Executive Order 13175 Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments D. Executive Order 13045 Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 F. Regulatory Flexibility Act ( RFA), as Amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 ( SBREFA), 5 U. S. C. 601 et seq. G. Paperwork Reduction Act H. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 I. Congressional Review Act J. Executive Order 13211 Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use X. Statutory Authority XI. Judicial Review I. Overview of Today's Final Action A. Background We1 proposed revisions to the NSR rules in a notice published in the Federal Register on July 23, 1996 ( 61 FR 38250). On July 24, 1998, we published a notice ( 63 FR 39857) to solicit further comment on two specific aspects of the proposed revisions. Today's Federal Register action announces EPA's final action on the proposed revisions for baseline emissions determinations, the actual­ to­ future­ actual methodology, actuals PALs, Clean Units, and PCPs. We have not made final determinations on any other proposed changes to the regulations. Today's actions finalize these changes to the regulations for both the approval and promulgation of implementation plans and requirements for preparation, adoption, and submittal of implementation plans governing the NSR programs mandated by parts C and D of title I of the Act. We also proposed conforming changes to 40 CFR ( Code of Federal Regulations) part 51, appendix S, and part 52.24. Today we have not included the final regulatory language for these regulations. It is our intention to include regulatory changes that conform appendix S and 40 CFR 52.24 to today's final rules in any final regulations that set forth an interim implementation strategy for the 8­ hour ozone standard. We intend to finalize changes to these sections precisely as we have finalized requirements for other parts of the program. Because these are conforming changes and the public has had an opportunity for review and comment, we will not be soliciting additional comments before we finalize them. The major NSR program contained in parts C and D of title I of the Act is a preconstruction review and permitting program applicable to new or modified major stationary sources of air pollutants regulated under the Act. In areas not meeting health­ based National Ambient Air Quality Standards ( NAAQS) and in ozone transport regions ( OTR), the program is implemented under the requirements of part D of title I of the Act. We call this program the `` nonattainment'' NSR program. In areas meeting NAAQS (`` attainment'' areas) or for which there is insufficient information to determine whether they meet the NAAQS (`` unclassifiable'' areas), the NSR requirements under part C of title I of the Act apply. We call this program the Prevention of Significant Deterioration ( PSD) program. Collectively, we also commonly refer to these programs as the major NSR program. These regulations are contained in 40 CFR 51.165, 51.166, 52.21, 52.24, and part 51, appendix S. The NSR provisions of the Act are a combination of air quality planning and air pollution control technology program requirements for new and modified stationary sources of air pollution. In brief, section 109 of the Act requires us to promulgate primary NAAQS to protect public health and secondary NAAQS to protect public welfare. Once we have set these standards, States must develop, adopt, and submit to us for approval a State Implementation Plan ( SIP) that contains emission limitations and other control measures to attain and maintain the NAAQS and to meet the other requirements of section 110( a) of the Act. Each SIP is required to contain a preconstruction review program for the construction and modification of any stationary source of air pollution to assure that the NAAQS are achieved and maintained; to protect areas of clean air; to protect Air Quality Related Values ( AQRVs) ( including visibility) in national parks and other natural areas of special concern; to assure that appropriate emissions controls are applied; to maximize opportunities for economic development consistent with the preservation of clean air resources; and to ensure that any decision to increase air pollution is made only after full public consideration of all the consequences of such a decision. For newly constructed, `` greenfield'' sources, the determination of whether an activity is subject to the major NSR program is fairly straightforward. The Act, as implemented by our regulations, sets applicability thresholds for major sources in nonattainment areas [ potential to emit ( PTE) above 100 tons per year ( tpy) of any pollutant subject to regulation under the Act, or smaller amounts, depending on the nonattainment classification] and attainment areas ( 100 or 250 tpy, depending on the source type). A new source with a PTE at or above the applicable threshold amount `` triggers,'' or is subject to, major NSR. The determination of what should be classified as a modification subject to major NSR presents more difficult issues. The modification provisions of the NSR program in parts C and D are based on the definition of modification in section 111( a)( 4) of the Act: the term `` modification'' means `` any physical change in, or change in the method of operation of, a stationary source which increases the amount of any air pollutant emitted by such source or which results in the emission of any air pollutant not previously emitted.'' That definition contemplates that, first, you will determine whether a physical or operational change will occur. If so, then you will proceed to determine whether the physical or operational change will result in an emissions increase over baseline levels. The expression `` any physical change * * * or change in the method of operation'' in section 111( a)( 4) of the Act is not defined. We have recognized that Congress did not intend to make every activity at a source subject to the major NSR program. As a result, we have previously adopted several exclusions from what may constitute a `` physical or operational change.'' For instance, we have specifically recognized that routine maintenance, repair and replacement, and changes in hours of operation or in the production rate are not considered a physical change or change in the method of VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80188 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 2 See 40 CFR 52.21( b)( 2). 3 See 40 CFR 52.21( b)( 23). 4 In approximate terms, `` contemporaneous'' emissions increases or decreases are those that have occurred between the date 5 years immediately preceding the proposed physical or operational change and the date that the increase from the change occurs. See, for example, § 52.21( b)( 3)( ii). 5 Once a modification is determined to be major, the PSD requirements apply only to those specific pollutants for which there would be a significant net emissions increase. See, for example, § 52.21( j)( 3) ( BACT) and § 52.21( m)( 1)( b) ( air quality analysis). 6 The regulations define `` electric utility steam generating units'' as any steam electric generating unit that is constructed for the purpose of supplying more than one­ third of its potential electric output capacity and more than 25 megawatts ( MW) of electrical output to any utility power distribution system for sale. See, for example, § 51.166( b)( 30). operation within the definition of major modification. 2 We have likewise addressed the scope of the statutory definition of modification by excluding all changes that do not result in a `` significant'' emissions increase from a major source. 3 This regulatory framework applies the major NSR program at existing sources to only `` major modifications'' at major stationary sources. One key attribute of the major NSR program in general is that you may `` net'' modifications out of review by coupling proposed emissions increases at your source with contemporaneous emissions reductions. Thus, under regulations we promulgated in 1980, you may modify, or even completely replace, or add, emissions units without obtaining a major NSR permit, so long as `` actual emissions'' do not increase by a significant amount over baseline levels at the plant as a whole. Applicability of the major NSR program must be determined in advance of construction and is pollutant­ specific. In cases involving existing sources, this requires a pollutant­ by­ pollutant determination of the emissions change, if any, that will result from the physical or operational change. Our 1980 regulations implementing the PSD and nonattainment major NSR programs thus inquire whether the proposed change constitutes a `` major modification,'' that is, a physical change or change in the method of operation `` that would result in a significant net emissions increase of any pollutant subject to regulation under the Act.'' A `` net emissions increase'' is defined as the increase in `` actual emissions'' from the particular physical or operational change ( taking into account the use of emissions control technology and restrictions on hours of operation or rates of production where such controls and restrictions are enforceable), together with your other contemporaneous increases or decreases in actual emissions. 4 In order to trigger applicability of the major NSR program, the net emissions increase must be `` significant.'' 5 Before today's changes, our regulations generally defined actual emissions as `` the average rate, in tpy, at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during a 2­ year period which precedes the particular date and which is representative of normal source operation.'' The reviewing authorities will allow use of a different time period `` upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source operation.'' We have historically used the 2 years immediately preceding the proposed change to establish a source's actual emissions. However, in some cases we have allowed use of an earlier period. With respect to changes at existing sources, a prediction of whether the physical or operational change would result in a significant net increase in your actual emissions following the change was thus necessary. In part, this involved a straightforward and readily predictable engineering judgment how would the change affect the emission factor or emissions rate of the emissions units that are to be changed. Before today's changes, the regulations provided that when your emissions unit, other than an electric utility steam generating unit ( EUSGU), `` has not begun normal operations,'' actual emissions equal the PTE of the unit. When you have not begun normal operations following a change, you must assume that your source will operate at its full capacity year round, that is, at its full emissions potential. This is referred to as the actual­ to­ potential test. You may avoid the need for an NSR permit by reducing your source's potential emissions through the use of enforceable restrictions to premodification actual emissions levels plus an amount that is less than `` significant''. In 1992, we promulgated revisions to our applicability regulations creating special rules for physical and operational changes at EUSGUs. See 57 FR 32314 ( July 21, 1992). 6 In this rule, prompted by litigation involving the Wisconsin Electric Power Company ( WEPCO) and commonly referred to as the `` WEPCO rule,'' we adopted an actual­ to­ future­ actual methodology for all changes at EUSGUs except the construction of a new electric generating unit or the replacement of an existing emissions unit. Under this methodology, the actual annual emissions before the change are compared with the projected actual emissions after the change to determine if a physical or operational change would result in a significant increase in emissions. To ensure that the projection is valid, the rule requires the utility to track its emissions for the next 5 years and provide to the reviewing authority information demonstrating that the physical or operational change did not result in an emissions increase. In promulgating the WEPCO rule, we also adopted a presumption that utilities may use as baseline emissions the actual annual emissions from any 2 consecutive years within the 5 years immediately preceding the change. In attainment areas, once major NSR is triggered, you must, among other things, install best available control technology ( BACT) and conduct modeling and monitoring as necessary. If your source is located in a nonattainment area, you must install technology that meets the lowest achievable emissions rate ( LAER), secure emissions reductions to offset any increases above baseline emission levels, and perform other analyses. B. Introduction Today's final regulations were proposed as part of a larger regulatory package on July 23, 1996 ( 61 FR 38250). That package proposed a number of changes to our existing major NSR requirements. ( Please refer to the outline of that proposed rulemaking for a complete list of changes that were proposed to our existing regulations.) On July 24, 1998, we published a Federal Register Notice of Availability ( NOA) that requested additional comment on three of the proposed changes: determining baseline emissions, actual­ to­ future­ actual methodology, and PALs. Following the 1996 proposals, we held two public hearings and more than 50 stakeholder meetings. Environmental groups, industry, and State, local, and Federal agency representatives participated in these many discussions. In May 2001, President Bush's National Energy Policy Development Group issued findings and key recommendations for a National Energy Policy. This document included numerous recommendations for action, including a recommendation that the EPA Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and other relevant agencies, review NSR regulations, including administrative interpretation and implementation. The recommendation requested that we issue a report to the President on the impact of the regulations on investment VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80189 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations in new utility and refinery generation capacity, energy efficiency, and environmental protection. In response, in June 2001, we issued a background paper giving an overview of the NSR program. This paper is available on the Internet at http:// www. epa. gov/ air/ nsr­ review/ background. html. We solicited public comments on the background paper and other information relevant to the New Source Review 90­ day Review and Report to the President. During our review of the NSR program, we met with more than 100 groups, held four public meetings around the country, and received more than 130,000 written comments. Our report to the President and our recommendations in response to the energy policy were issued on June 13, 2002. A copy of this information is available at http:// www. epa. gov/ air/ nsrreview We expect that our recommendations in response to the energy policy will be reflected in the future in various programs and regulatory actions. Today's actions implement several of those recommendations. Today, we are finalizing five actions that we previously proposed in 1996 ( three of which were re­ noticed in the 1998 NOA). We are not taking final action on any of the remaining issues in the 1996 proposal at this time. We have not decided what final action we will take on those issues. C. Overview of Final Actions Today we are taking final action on five changes to the NSR program that will reduce burden, maximize operating flexibility, improve environmental quality, provide additional certainty, and promote administrative efficiency. These elements include baseline actual emissions, actual­ to­ projected­ actual emissions methodology, PALs, Clean Units, and PCPs. We are also codifying our longstanding policy regarding the calculation of baseline emissions for EUSGUs. In addition, we are responding to comments we received on a proposal to adopt a methodology, developed by the American Chemistry Council ( formerly known as the Chemical Manufacturers Association ( CMA)) and other industry petitioners, to determine whether a source has undertaken a modification based on its potential emissions. We are including a new section in today's final rules that outlines how a major modification is determined under the various major NSR applicability options and clarifies where you will find the provisions in our revised rules. Finally, we have codified a new definition of `` regulated NSR pollutant'' that clarifies which pollutants are regulated under the Act for purposes of major NSR. This section briefly introduces each improvement. Detailed discussions of the improvements are found in sections II through VII of this preamble. 1. Determining Whether a Proposed Modification Results in a Significant Emissions Increase Today we are finalizing two changes to our existing major NSR regulations that will affect how you calculate emissions increases to determine whether physical changes or changes in the method of operation trigger the major NSR requirements. First, we have a new procedure for determining `` baseline actual emissions.'' That is, the relevant terminology for calculating prechange emissions for most applications is now `` baseline actual emissions'' rather than `` actual emissions.'' You may use any consecutive 24­ month period in the past 10 years to determine your baseline actual emissions. Second, we are supplementing the existing actual­ to­ potential applicability test with an actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test for determining if a physical or operational change at an existing emissions unit will result in an emissions increase. Notwithstanding the new test, you will still have the ability to conduct an actual­ to­ potential type test within the new actual­ to­ projectedactual applicability test. In this case, you will not be subject to recordkeeping requirements that are being established and would otherwise apply as part of the new actual­ to­ projected actual applicability test. For EUSGUs, we are making several changes to the existing procedures and are codifying our current policy for calculating the baseline actual emissions. That is, the baseline actual emissions for EUSGUs is the average rate, in tpy, at which that unit actually emitted the pollutant during a 2­ year ( consecutive 24­ month) period within the 5­ year period immediately preceding when the owner or operator begins actual construction. We are also retaining the option that allows the use of a different time period if the reviewing authority determines it is more representative of normal source operation. 2. CMA Exhibit B As described in section I. C. 1 above, we have decided to adopt an actual­ toprojected actual methodology, combined with a revised process to determine baseline emissions, to use in determining when sources are considered to have made a modification and are thereby subject to NSR. We are not adopting the methodology based on potential emissions as discussed in the CMA Exhibit B proposal. See section III of this preamble for a discussion of the comments we received on this proposal and our responses. 3. Plantwide Applicability Limitations A PAL is a voluntary option that will provide you with the ability to manage facility­ wide emissions without triggering major NSR review. We believe that the added flexibility provided under a PAL will facilitate your ability to respond rapidly to changing market conditions while enhancing the environmental protection afforded under the program. Today we are promulgating a PAL based on plantwide actual emissions. If you keep the emissions from your facility below a plantwide actual emissions cap ( that is, an actuals PAL), then these regulations will allow you to avoid the major NSR permitting process when you make alterations to the facility or individual emissions units. In return for this flexibility, you must monitor emissions from all of your emissions units under the PAL. The benefit to you is that you can alter your facility without first obtaining a Federal NSR permit or going through a netting review. A PAL will allow you to make changes quickly at your facility. If you are willing to undertake the necessary recordkeeping, monitoring, and reporting, a PAL offers you flexibility and regulatory certainty. 4. Clean Units We are promulgating a new type of applicability test for emissions units that are designated as Clean Units. The new applicability test recognizes that when you go through major NSR review and install BACT or LAER, you may make any changes to the Clean Unit without triggering an additional major NSR review, if the project at a Clean Unit does not cause the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that were adopted in conjunction with BACT or LAER and the project would not alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT or LAER determination. If the project causes the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit adopted in conjunction with BACT or LAER or would alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT or LAER determination, you lose Clean Unit status. You may still proceed with the project without triggering major NSR VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80190 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations review, if the increase is not a significant net emissions increase. Emissions units that have not been through major NSR may still qualify for Clean Unit status if they demonstrate that the emissions control level is comparable to BACT or LAER. Clean Unit status will be valid for up to a 10­ year period. The new applicability test does not exclude consideration of physical changes or changes in the method of operation of Clean Units from major NSR, but rather changes the way emissions increases are calculated for these changes. This new applicability test therefore protects air quality, creates incentives for sources to install state­ ofthe art controls, provides flexibility for sources, and promotes administrative efficiency. 5. Pollution Control Projects Today's rule contains a new list of environmentally beneficial technologies that qualify as PCPs for all types of sources. Installation of a PCP is not subject to the major modification provisions. An owner or operator installing a listed PCP automatically qualifies for the exclusion if there is no adverse air quality impact that is, if it will not cause or contribute to a violation of NAAQS or PSD increment, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager ( FLM) and for which information is available to the general public. The PCPs that are not listed in today's rules may also qualify for the PCP Exclusion if the reviewing authority determines on a case­ specific basis that a non­ listed PCP is environmentally beneficial when used for a particular application. Also, in the future, we may add to the listed PCPs through a rulemaking that provides for public notice and opportunity for comment. The PCP Exclusion allows sources to install emissions controls that are known to be environmentally beneficial. These provisions thus offer flexibility while improving air quality. 6. Major NSR Applicability We have briefly described the new provisions for baseline actual emissions, actual­ to­ projected­ actual methodology, PALs, and Clean Units. Sections II, IV, and V describe the new provisions in detail. These provisions offer major new changes to NSR applicability, especially regarding how a major modification is determined. The major NSR applicability provisions have developed over time and therefore have been added to the NSR rules in a piecemeal fashion. In today's final rules we are including a new section that outlines how a major modification is determined under the various major NSR applicability options and clarifies where you will find the provisions in our revised rules. For each applicability option, we describe how a major modification is determined in detail. You'll find this new applicability `` roadmap'' in § § 51.165( a)( 2), 51.166( a)( 7), and 52.21( a)( 2). To summarize, the various provisions for major modifications are now as follows. Actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test for all existing emissions units. ( Including an actual­ topotential option) Actual­ to­ potential test for any new unit, including EUSGUs. The Clean Unit Test for existing emissions units with Clean Unit status. The hybrid test for modifications with multiple types of emissions units. ( Used when a physical or operational change affects a combination of more than one type of unit.) We describe actuals PALs, which are an alternative way of complying with major NSR, in section IV of this preamble. If you have a PAL, as long as you are complying with the PAL requirements, any physical or operational changes are not major modifications. We have revised the definition of major modification to clarify what has always been our policy that determining whether a major modification has occurred is a two­ step process. The new definition of major modification is `` any physical change in or change in the method of operation of a major stationary source that would result in: ( 1) A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant; and ( 2) a significant net emissions increase of that pollutant from the major stationary source.'' We have also revised the definitions of actual emissions, emissions unit, net emissions increase, and construction. We have deleted the word `` actual'' as related to emissions from the definition of `` construction.'' This change was necessary because of how the definition of `` actual emissions'' is used in the final rule, but the deletion is not intended to change any meaning in the term `` construction.'' We have added new definitions for baseline actual emissions, projected actual emissions, project, and significant emissions increase. These revisions and additions implement our new provisions for major modifications under the actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test, actual­ to­ potential test, Clean Unit Test, and hybrid test. You will find a complete discussion of the Clean Unit Test, including how modifications to Clean Units are treated, in section V of this preamble. The other tests are discussed in section II. `` Actual emissions,'' as the term has been historically applied, will still be used to determine air quality impacts ( for example, compliance with NAAQS, PSD increments, and AQRVs) and to compute the required amount of emissions offsets. To further clarify major NSR applicability in one location, we have moved § 51.166( i)( 1) through ( 3) and § 52.21( i)( 1) through ( 3) into the new applicability sections at § 51.166( a)( 7) and § 52.21( a)( 2). These provisions clarify that you must obtain a permit before you begin construction ( including for major modifications), that the provisions apply for each regulated NSR pollutant that your source emits, and that the provisions apply to any source located in the area designated as attainment or unclassifiable ( for § § 51.166 and 52.21). We have also added a new definition for reviewing authority that clarifies who has authority to implement major NSR programs. Reviewing authority means the State air pollution control agency, local agency, other State agency, Indian tribe, or other agency authorized by the Administrator to carry out a permit program under § § 51.165 and 51.166, or the Administrator in the case of EPA­ implemented permit programs under § 52.21. 7. Enforcement As noted above, today we are taking final action on five changes to the NSR program that create alternative means of determining NSR applicability for projects that begin actual construction after these provisions become effective in your jurisdiction. If you are subsequently determined not to have met any of the obligations of these new alternatives ( for example, failure to meet emissions or applicability limits, properly project emissions, and/ or properly implement the PCP Exclusion or Clean Unit Test), you will be subject to any applicable enforcement provisions ( including the possibility of citizens' suits) under the applicable sections of the Act. Sanctions for violations of these provisions may include monetary penalties of up to $ 27,500 per day of violation, as well as the possibility of injunctive relief, which may include the requirement to install air pollution controls. 8. Enforceability This rule uses several terms related to enforceability of particular provisions. A requirement is `` legally enforceable'' if some authority has the right to enforce the restriction. Practical enforceability for a source­ specific permit will be VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 17: 13 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80191 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 7 See memorandum, `` Release of Interim Policy on Federal Enforceability of Limitations on Potential to Emit,'' signed by John Seitz and Robert Van Heuvelen, Jan. 22, 1996 at 5 6 and Attachment 4, available on the Web as http:// www. epa. gov/ rgytgrnj/ programs/ artd/ air/ title5/ t5memos/ pottoemi. pdf. More detailed guidance on practical enforceability is contained in the memorandum. 8 The Agency has frequently used the term `` practicably enforceable'' and `` practical enforceability,'' interchangeably. There is no difference in the meaning of these terms. 9 See generally memorandum, `` Options for Limiting the Potential to Emit ( PTE) of a Stationary Source Under Section 112 and Title V of the Clean Air Act,'' signed by John Seitz and Robert Van Heuvelen, Jan. 25, 1995, at 2 3. 10 By definition, the modification of an existing source is potentially subject to major NSR only if that existing source is `` major.'' In addition, when an existing `` minor'' source makes a physical or operational change that by itself is major, that change constitutes a major stationary source that is subject to major NSR. See, for example, § 52.21( b)( 1)( c). 11 For NSR purposes, the definition of `` electric utility steam generating unit'' means any steam electric generating unit that is constructed for the purpose of supplying more than one­ third of its potential electric output capacity and more than 25 MW electrical output to any utility power distribution system for sale. Any steam supplied to a steam distribution system for the purpose of providing steam to a steam electric generator that would produce electrical energy for sale is also considered in determining the electrical energy output capacity of the affected facility. See, for example, § 52.21( b)( 31). Reference in this notice to utility units is meant to include all emissions units covered by this definition. 12 We promulgated special applicability rules for physical and operational changes at EUSGUs in 1992. See 57 FR 32314 ( July 21, 1992). achieved if the permit's provisions specify: ( 1) A technically­ accurate limitation and the portions of the source subject to the limitation; ( 2) the time period for the limitation ( hourly, daily, monthly, and annual limits such as rolling annual limits); and ( 3) the method to determine compliance, including appropriate monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting. For rules and general permits that apply to categories of sources, practicable enforceability additionally requires that the provisions: ( 1) Identify the types or categories of sources that are covered by the rule; ( 2) where coverage is optional, provide for notice to the permitting authority of the source's election to be covered by the rule; and ( 3) specify the enforcement consequences relevant to the rule. 7, 8 `` Enforceable as a practical matter'' will be achieved if a requirement is both legally and practically enforceable. Note that we continue to require offsets to be federally enforceable. `` Federal enforceability'' means that not only is a requirement practically enforceable, as described above, but in addition, `` EPA must have a direct right to enforce restrictions and limitations imposed on a source to limit its exposure to Act programs.'' 9 Also note that, for computing baseline actual emissions for use in determining major NSR applicability or for establishing a PAL, you must consider `` legally enforceable'' requirements. A requirement will be legally enforceable if the Administrator, State, local or tribal air pollution control agency has the authority to enforce the requirement irrespective of its practical enforceability. In our existing regulations that are unamended by today's action, the term `` federally enforceability'' still appears. In 1995, the court in Chemical Manufacturers Ass'n v. EPA remanded the definition of PTE in the major NSR program to EPA. No. 89 1514 ( D. C. Cir. Sept. 150 1995). Because the court vacated the requirements in the nationwide rules, the term federal enforceability as it relates to PTE is not in effect ( pending final rule making by the Agency) in the Federal rules. The decision, however, did not address the term `` federally enforceable'' as used in SIPs, because that issue was not before the court. II. Revisions to the Method for Determining Whether a Proposed Modification Results in a Significant Emissions Increase A. Introduction Today we are finalizing two sets of amendments to our existing major NSR regulations that provide another way in which you may calculate emissions increases to determine whether certain types of physical changes or changes in the method of operation ( physical or operational changes) of an existing emissions unit trigger the major NSR requirements. 10 The first set of amendments relates to the way in which you will determine your baseline actual emissions for such emissions units in accordance with a new definition of `` baseline actual emissions.'' See, for example, new § 52.21( b)( 48). We will be allowing you to use any consecutive 24­ month period during the 10­ year period prior to the change to determine your baseline actual emissions for existing emissions units ( other than EUSGUs). The second set of amendments replaces the existing actual­ to­ potential and actual­ to­ representative­ actual­ annual emissions applicability tests for existing emissions units ( including EUSGUs) with an actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test for determining if a physical or operational change will result in an emissions increase at such units. ( Notwithstanding this new test, the actual­ to­ potential methodology is still available at your option under the new applicability tests.) The new procedure for determining your prechange baseline actual emissions will not apply to EUSGUs. 11 Instead, for EUSGUs we are retaining the existing procedures for determining the baseline actual emissions. 12 See, for example, existing § 52.21( b)( 33). We are also affirming our current method used for calculating the baseline actual emissions for EUSGUs ( allowing any consecutive 2 years in the past 5 years, or another more representative period) by codifying it in the NSR regulations. See, for example, new § 52.21( b)( 48). For existing emissions units other than EUSGUs, the changes we are making to the method for calculating a unit's baseline actual emissions will apply only for the following three purposes. For modifications, to determine a modified unit's pre­ change baseline actual emissions as part of the new actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test. For netting, to determine the prechange baseline actual emissions of an emissions unit that underwent a physical or operational change within the contemporaneous period. For PALs, to establish the PAL emissions cap. Today's new procedures for calculating baseline actual emissions and for the actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test should not be used when determining a source's actual emissions on a particular date as may be used for other NSR­ related requirements. Such requirements include, but are not limited to, air quality impacts analyses ( for example, compliance with NAAQS, PSD increments, and AQRVs) and computing the required amount of emissions offsets. For each of these requirements, the existing definition of `` actual emissions'' continues to apply. This is discussed in greater detail in section II. D. 9. We believe that these changes will greatly improve the major NSR program by responding to industry concerns with our existing methodology without compromising air quality. One common complaint about the current emissions baseline process is that you have a limited ability to consider the operational fluctuations associated with normal business cycles when establishing baseline actual emissions unless your reviewing authority agrees that another period is `` more representative of normal source VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80192 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 13 The definition of `` actual emissions'' requires that a unit's actual emissions be based on a consecutive 24­ month period immediately preceding the particular change. Also, however, it directs the reviewing authority to allow the use of another time period upon a determination that it is more representative. This procedure continues to be appropriate under the pre­ existing regulation and for other NSR purposes, such as determining a source's ambient impact against the PSD increments, and we continue to require its use for such purposes. 14 Note that we plan, in the near future, to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that will address the issue of `` debottlenecking.'' In today's rulemaking, we do not intend to change current requirements related to `` debottlenecking.'' Use of the term `` changed unit'' should not be interpreted as a change to those requirements. operation.'' 13 By extending the time period from which you may establish your baseline actual emissions, the new procedures should reflect the emissions levels that occur during a normal business cycle, without requiring you to demonstrate to your reviewing authority that another period is `` more representative of normal source operations.'' Commenters also believe that the current methodology requires many changes made to existing equipment to go through major NSR, without taking into account operating history, even when such changes will not result in increased pollution to the environment. Our new applicability requirements address these commenters' concerns and will focus limited resources more effectively. We are also modifying the way you may determine whether emissions at existing units ( including EUSGUs) will increase, by allowing you to use projected actual emissions for purposes of this determination. Under this approach, in circumstances where there is a reasonable possibility that a project that is not part of a major modification may result in a significant increase of a regulated NSR pollutant, before beginning actual construction, you may choose to make and record a projection of post­ change emissions of that pollutant from changed units. 14 To make this projection, you must use the maximum annual rate at which the changed units are projected to emit the pollutant in any of the 5 calendar years following the time the unit resumes regular operations after the project ( or 10 years if the project increases the unit's design capacity or potential to emit the regulated NSR pollutant). You then use these projections to calculate whether the project will result in a significant emissions increase. In making this calculation, you could exclude any emissions that the unit could have accommodated before the change and that are unrelated to the project. You could also exclude emissions resulting from increased utilization due to demand growth that the unit could have accommodated before the change. With respect to the covered changes, if you use this procedure, you are required to track post­ change annual emissions of the units in tpy for the next 5 years ( or 10 years if the project increases the unit's design capacity or potential to emit the regulated NSR pollutant). At the end of each year, if post­ change annual emissions exceed the baseline actual emissions by a significant amount, and differ from your projections, you must submit a report to the reviewing authority with that information within 60 days after the end of the year. Instead of relying on projected actual emissions, you may instead elect to use the unit's PTE, in tpy. In that case, you need not track or report post­ change emissions. We are also revising the procedures for projecting future emissions for EUSGUs to conform with these new procedures and consolidate the EUSGU and non­ EUSGU procedures into a single set of provisions. As a result of our 1992 rulemaking, EUSGUs have available to them a similar set of procedures. We believe the procedures we are implementing for other units represent a sensible refinement of the rules we promulgated in 1992 and that we should make these procedures available to all existing units. We do, however, impose two requirements on EUSGUs beyond those we impose on other units. First, with respect to covered projects, EUSGUs that project post­ change emissions will have to submit a copy of their projections to their reviewing authority before beginning actual construction. You will not be required to obtain any kind of determination from the reviewing authority before proceeding with construction. Second, we are requiring that if you project post­ change emissions for your EUSGUs, you must send a copy of your tracked emissions to your reviewing authority, without regard to whether these emissions have increased by a significant amount or exceed your projections. The effect of this consolidation is that we make minor changes to the existing procedures for EUSGUs. For example, you must project emissions for EUSGUs on a 12­ month basis, rather than the current approach of projecting average annual emissions for the 2 years immediately following the change. Also, you need only make and report a projection for EUSGUs when there is a reasonable possibility that the given project may result in a significant emissions increase. By allowing you to use today's new version of the actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test to evaluate modified existing emissions units, we expect that fewer projects will trigger the major NSR permitting requirements. Nonetheless, we believe that the environment will not be adversely affected by these changes and in some respects will benefit from these changes. The new test will remove disincentives that discourage sources from making the types of changes that improve operating efficiency, implement pollution prevention projects, and result in other environmentally beneficial changes. Moreover, the end result is that State and local reviewing authorities can appropriately focus their limited resources on those activities that could cause real and significant increases in pollution. In addition, today's changes provide benefits to the public and the environment through the improved recordkeeping and reporting requirements as discussed above. We believe that these added recordkeeping and reporting measures will provide the information necessary for reviewing authorities to assure that such changes are made consistent with the CAA requirements. The new rule also does not affect the way in which a source's ambient air quality impacts are evaluated. Altogether, we believe that today's regulatory amendments focus on the types of changes occurring at existing emissions units that are more likely to result in significant contributions to air pollution. B. What We Proposed and How Today's Action Compares 1. July 23, 1996 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking ( NPRM) In 1996, we proposed to amend the NSR rules to allow States to use, among other things, a new test as an alternative to the actual­ to­ potential test for determining the applicability of the NSR requirements when you wish to make modifications at an existing major stationary source. The proposed test was intended to apply exclusively to modifications of existing emissions units at major stationary sources not to new emissions units. As described more completely below, the proposed test involved changes to the procedures for calculating an emissions unit's prechange ( baseline) actual emissions and post­ change ( future) actual emissions. The method would have also required you to monitor and report future emissions from certain modified VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80193 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 15 This method, as well as the WEPCO amendments as a whole, was limited to modifications of existing EUSGUs and did not apply to the addition of a new emissions unit or the replacement of an existing unit. emissions units, based on the monitoring and reporting requirements adopted under the WEPCO amendments. Baseline actual emissions. In our 1996 NPRM, we proposed to change the definition of baseline emissions from the average annual rate of actual emissions during the 2­ year period preceding the date of the modification to the annual rate associated with the highest level of utilization from any consecutive 12­ month period during the 10­ year period preceding the date of the modification, adjusted for any more stringent limits that may have been imposed since the end of the 12­ month period selected. The proposed method was intended to be used for calculating baseline actual emissions for any existing emissions unit, including EUSGUs, by replacing both the original method ( that was part of the actual­ topotential test) and the 2­ in­ 5­ years method ( as adopted under the WEPCO for modified EUSGUs). As indicated above, the proposed procedure also would have required you to take into account any legally enforceable constraints imposed on the facility since the selected 12­ month time frame, and currently in effect. Thus, you would generally have been required to calculate the modified emissions unit's baseline actual emissions by using the appropriate utilization level from the selected 12­ month period, in combination with the emissions unit's current enforceable emission factors. Such enforceable emission factors would have included current Federal and State limits, such as RACT ( Reasonably Available Control Technology), MACT ( Maximum Achievable Control Technology), BACT, LAER, and New Source Performance Standards ( NSPS), as well as enforceable limits resulting from any voluntary reductions you may have taken ( for example, for netting, offsets, or Emission Reduction Credits ( ERCs)). Also, you would have had to consider any operational constraints that are enforceable, such as production limits, fuel use limits, or limits to the number of hours per day or days per year at which the unit modified, or affected by such modification, could operate. Finally, we indicated that it was not our intent to extend the 5­ year contemporaneous period ( for considering creditable emissions increases and decreases as part of the netting calculus), even if we established a 10­ year baseline look back period. Post­ change actual emissions. In the 1996 proposal, we proposed to extend the availability of the actual­ to­ futureactual emissions method, established under the WEPCO amendments exclusively for EUSGUs, to predict the future actual emissions from any emissions unit undergoing a physical or operational change. Thus, we proposed extending availability of the definition of `` representative actual annual emissions'' to all emissions units undergoing a physical or operational change. This definition would have provided the basis for you to project an emissions unit's future actual emissions, excluding any emissions increases caused by demand growth or other independent factors, when determining whether the change at issue will increase emissions over the baseline levels. 15 The proposal also retained the WEPCO provision requiring that, for any modified emissions unit using the actual­ to­ future­ actual test, you must submit annually for 5 years after the change sufficient records to demonstrate that the change has not resulted in a significant emissions increase over the baseline levels. As a safeguard, the WEPCO rule also provides that this tracking period could be extended to 10 years when the reviewing authority is concerned that the first 5 years will not be representative of normal source operation. We sought comments on numerous issues, including whether any changes should be made to the 5­ year tracking requirement or to the demand growth exclusion in the event that we decided to broaden use of the actual­ tofuture actual test for modifications to any existing emissions unit. 2. July 24, 1998 Notice of Availability In 1998, we announced that comments received on the 1996 proposal and changed circumstances had caused us to ask whether we should reconsider some of the aspects of the proposed changes to the `` major modification'' applicability test. The 1998 NOA set forth for public comment an additional applicability test. In brief, the alternative presented for additional comment would have: ( 1) Retained the actual­ to­ future­ actual test for EUSGUs and applied it to all source categories; ( 2) made binding for a 10­ year period the emissions levels used in projecting future actual emissions following the modification for all source categories; and ( 3) eliminated the demand growth exclusion for calculating a modified emissions unit's future actual emissions. Consistent with the 1996 NPRM, this alternative methodology would have applied to any existing emissions unit at a major stationary source for which you might plan a non­ routine physical or operational change. The methodology would have required you first to determine which emissions units were being changed, or were affected by the change, then to calculate those units' baseline actual emissions based on the highest consecutive 12 months of source operation during the past 10 years, adjusted to reflect current emission factors. The second step involved the forecast of future emissions resulting from the physical or operational change. Under this calculation of future actual emissions, one would not have been allowed to exclude predicted capacity utilization increases that were due to demand growth. If the difference between the pre­ change and post­ change actual emissions equaled or exceeded the significant emissions rate defined for a particular pollutant, major NSR would have been triggered ( unless you took enforceable limits to keep the increase below significant levels or were otherwise able to net out of review using creditable, contemporaneous emissions increases and decreases occurring at your facility). If the difference between baseline and future actual emissions did not exceed the applicable significant emissions rate, your facility would not be subject to major NSR, but you would have been required to accept a temporary emissions cap based on the predicted future actual emissions for each affected pollutant at the emissions units being modified or affected by the modification. The temporary cap would have become an enforceable condition of a preconstruction permit. Also, the sole purpose of the temporary cap would have been to make sure that the physical or operational change did not result in a significant emissions increase, and the cap would have applied to those emissions units for at least 10 years after the changes were completed. You would also have been required to supply information annually to demonstrate that the future actual emissions did not exceed the applicable emissions caps during the 10­ year period following the modification. 3. Summary of Major Changes in the Final Rule Today's action amends the existing NSR regulations to provide you with a common applicability test for all existing emissions units the actual­ toprojected actual applicability test. This test has changed in some ways from both the 1996 NPRM and the 1998 NOA. As described in greater detail in sections VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80194 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 16 We do make use of the term `` resumes regular operations'' ( as opposed to `` normal operations'') in the final rule, but that term has a very different meaning and we are using it for an entirely different purpose. Specifically, we are not using the term for purposes of determining whether a change results in a significant emissions increase. Rather, we use it only to identify the date on which the owner or operator must begin tracking emissions of changed units when using the actual­ to­ projected­ actual method. 17 The 1980 rulemaking also discussed that `` reconstruction'' would have only been applied on a plantwide basis and EPA believed that there would be few instances of plantwide reconstructions. 18 For simplicity, we state this rule without addressing whether the replacement or reconstruction has resulted in a significant net emissions increase, but under our two­ step approach for evaluating whether a change constitutes a major modification, a significant net emissions increase would of course also be required. We have also retained the term `` representative of normal operations'' in the context of an EUSGU's option to seek use of a different baseline period, but there the question whether to seek such use is at the source's option, obviating many of the difficulties with it in other contexts. II. C and II. D below, the key features of the methodology are as follows. If you are an existing emissions unit ( other than an EUSGU), you will determine the pre­ change ( baseline) actual emissions by calculating an average annual emissions rate, in tpy, using any consecutive 24 months during the 10­ year period immediately preceding the change. This rate must be adjusted downward to reflect any legally enforceable emission limitations imposed after the selected baseline period. We are codifying the `` 2­ in­ 5­ years'' presumption for calculating the baseline actual emissions for EUSGUs. If you are an existing emissions unit ( including EUSGUs), you will estimate post­ change emissions ( projected actual emissions), in tpy, to reflect any increase in annual emissions that may result from the proposed change. You should exclude, in calculating any increase in emissions that results from the particular project, that portion of the unit's emissions following the project that an existing unit could have accommodated during the baseline period and that is also unrelated to the particular project, including any increased utilization due to product demand growth. You must make the projection before you begin actual construction. When using this method, you must record the projection and certain other information in circumstances where there is a reasonable possibility that a change may result in a significant emissions increase. In addition, EUSGUs must send a copy of the projections and other information to your reviewing authority before beginning actual construction. If, for a project at an existing emissions unit ( other than an EUSGU) at a major stationary source, you elect to project your post­ change emissions, we are also requiring you to maintain information on these emissions, for 5 years following a physical or operational change, or in some cases for 10 years depending on the nature of the change. If your annual emissions exceed the baseline actual emissions by a significant amount and also exceed your projection, you must report this information to your reviewing authority within 60 days after the end of the year. If you project post­ change emissions for EUSGUs, you must report these emissions to your reviewing authority within 60 days after the end of the year without regard to whether such emissions exceed the baseline actual emissions or projected actual emissions for a period of 5 years ( or in some cases 10 years, depending on the nature of the change). Instead of projecting your postchange emissions, for all existing emissions units you may instead project post­ change emissions on the basis of each unit's post­ change PTE. If you use this method, you need not record your projections or track or report postchange emissions. As discussed earlier, our prior regulations provide that when your emissions unit, other than an EUSGU, `` has not begun normal operations, `` actual emissions equal the PTE of the unit. There have been considerable number issues raised with this approach. For example, using PTE as a measure of post­ change emissions automatically attributes all possible emissions increases to the change. There are many cases, however, where this simply is not true. Moreover, when the actual­ to­ potential test is applied, it is automatically assumed that the emissions unit has not begun normal operations after the change period. In many such cases, however, the changed unit as a practical matter will function essentially as it did before the change. We are, therefore, allowing all existing emissions units to use an actual­ toprojected actual applicability test. Accordingly, we are generally eliminating the term `` begun normal operations'' from the determination of whether a change results in a significant emissions increase. 16 For essentially the same reasons, while our 1992 rules did not authorize use of projections in evaluating whether replacement of an existing emissions unit ( which we understood to require application of the NSPS 50 percent cost threshold) constitutes a major modification, upon reflection we have decided this exception to the availability of the actual­ to­ projectedactual applicability test is also unnecessary. In our 1980 rulemaking, we decided against applying PSD to `` reconstruction,'' even of entire sources, on the grounds that, as to existing sources that would not otherwise be subjected to PSD review as a major modification ( i. e., such source would not cause a significant net emissions increase), changes that had no emission consequences should not be subject to PSD regardless of their magnitude. 17 In addition, we now believe that, as with modified units, the fact that replacement units are replacing similar units with a record of historical operational data provides sufficient reasons to believe that a projection of future actual emissions can be sufficiently reliable that an up­ front emissions cap based on PTE is unnecessary. In other words, a source replacing a unit should be able to adequately project and track emissions for the replacement unit based, in part, on the operating history of the replaced unit. In contrast, sources adding `` new'' units that do not qualify as replacement units must project that the future emissions of the new unit equal its PTE, effectively applying the `` actual­ topotential test because there is no relevant historical data that could be used to establish an actual emissions baseline or projection of future actual emissions for such new units. For these reasons, we have eliminated the requirement that replaced or reconstructed units be evaluated as to whether they constitute major modifications on an actual­ to­ potential basis. Instead, you may compare an emission unit's baseline actual emissions with your projected actual emission in measuring whether the replacement or reconstruction has resulted in a significant emissions increase. You must treat these emissions units as modifications only if the replacement or reconstruction of the unit results in a signficant increase so measured. 18 VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80195 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations C. Changes to the Procedures for Calculating the Pre­ Change Baseline Actual Emissions for Existing Emissions Units Other Than EUSGUs 1. Under Today's New Requirements, How Should I Calculate the Pre­ Change Baseline Actual Emissions for an Existing Emissions Unit That Is Not an EUSGU? When you calculate the baseline actual emissions for an existing emissions unit ( other than an EUSGU), you may select any consecutive 24 months of source operation within the past 10 years. Using the relevant source records for that 24­ month period, including such information as the utilization rate of the equipment, fuels and raw materials used in the operation of the equipment, and applicable emission factors, you must be able to calculate an average annual emissions rate, in tpy, for each pollutant emitted by the emissions unit that is modified, or is affected by the modification. The new requirements prohibit you from counting as part of the baseline actual emissions any pollution levels that are not allowed under any legally enforceable limitations and that apply at the time of the project. Therefore, you must identify the most current legally enforceable limits on your emissions unit. If these legally enforceable emission limitations and operating restrictions are more stringent than those that applied during the 24­ month period, you must adjust downward the average annual emissions rate that you calculated from the consecutive 24­ month period to reflect these current restrictions. ( See section II. C. 5 of this preamble for further discussion of the adjustment that you may need to make.) In summary, when the average annual emissions rate that you originally calculated is still legally achievable ( see discussion below), then your baseline actual emissions will be the same as the average annual emissions rate calculated from the 24­ month period. If it is not, you must adjust it downward so that it does not reflect emissions that are no longer legally allowed. 2. Can Existing Emissions Units ( Other Than EUSGUs) Still Use a `` More Representative Time Period'' for Selecting the Baseline Actual Emissions? No, under today's new requirements neither you nor your reviewing authority will have the authority to select another period of time from which to calculate your baseline actual emissions. You must select a 24­ month period within the 10­ year period before the physical or operational change. 3. From What Point in Time Is the 10­ Year Look Back Measured? If you believe that you will need either a major or minor NSR permit to proceed with your proposed physical or operational change, then you must use the 10­ year period immediately preceding the date on which you submit a complete permit application. If, however, you believe that the physical or operational change( s) you plan to make will not result in either a significant emissions increase from the project or a significant net emissions increase at your major stationary source ( that is, your project will not be a major modification), and you are not otherwise required to obtain a minor NSR permit before making such change, then you must use the 10­ year period that immediately precedes the date on which you begin actual construction of the physical or operational change. 4. What if, for an Existing Emissions Unit ( Other Than an EUSGU), I Do Not Have Adequate Documentation for Its Operation for the Past 10 Years? Your ability to use the full 10 years of the look back period will depend upon the availability of relevant data for the consecutive 24­ month period you wish to select. The data must adequately describe the operation and associated pollution levels for the emissions units being changed. If you do not have the data necessary to determine the units' actual emission factors, utilization rate, and other relevant information needed to accurately calculate your average annual emissions rate during that period of time, then you must select another consecutive 24­ month period within the 10­ year look back period for which you have adequate data. 5. For an Existing Unit ( Other Than EUSGUs), When Must I Adjust My Calculation of the Pre­ Change Baseline Actual Emissions? Today's amendments require you to adjust the average annual emissions rate derived from the selected 24­ month period under certain circumstances. Specifically, you must adjust downward this average annual rate if any legally enforceable emission limitations, including but not limited to any State or Federal requirements such as RACT, BACT, LAER, NSPS, and National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants ( NESHAP), restrict the emissions unit's ability to emit a particular pollutant or to operate at levels that existed during the selected 24­ month period from which you calculate the average annual emissions rate. For example, assume that during the selected consecutive 24­ month period you burned fuel oil and you were subjected to a sulfur limit of 2 percent sulfur ( by weight). Today, you are only allowed to burn fuel oil with a sulfur content of 0.5 percent or less. Consequently, you would be required to adjust your preliminary calculation of baseline actual emissions for sulfur dioxide ( SO2) ( that is, substitute the lower sulfur limit into the emissions calculation, yielding a 75 percent reduction in the emissions rate from the initial calculation) to reflect the current restriction allowing only 0.5 percent sulfur in fuel oil. The original average annual utilization rate would not be adjusted unless a more stringent legally enforceable operational limitation has since been imposed that restricts that rate. You must also adjust for legally enforceable emission limitations you may have voluntarily agreed to, such as limits you may have taken in your permit for netting, emissions offsets, or the creation of ERCs. Also, you must adjust your emissions from the 24­ month period if a raw material you used during the baseline period is now prohibited. For example, you may have used a paint with a high solvent concentration during a portion of the consecutive 24­ month period. Today, you are prohibited from using that particular paint. You must then adjust your emissions rate to reflect the raw material restriction. 6. How Should I Calculate the Baseline Actual Emissions for Emissions Units ( Other Than EUSGUs) That Use Multiple Fuels or Raw Materials? For an emissions unit that is capable of burning more than one type of fuel, you must relate the current emission factors to the fuel or fuels that were actually used during the selected 24­ month period. For example, when calculating the baseline actual emissions for an emissions unit that burned natural gas for a portion of the 24­ month period and fuel oil for the remainder, you must retain that fuel apportionment ( for example, natural gas to fuel oil ratio), but you must also use the current legally enforceable emission factors for natural gas and fuel oil, respectively, to calculate the baseline actual emissions. If, however, you are no longer allowed or able to use one of those fuel types, then you must make your calculations assuming use of the currently allowed fuel for the entire 24­ month period. You must use the same approach for emissions units that use multiple feedstock or raw materials, which may vary in use during the unit's ongoing production process. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80196 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 7. How Should I Calculate the Baseline Actual Emissions for Construction Projects That Involve Multiple Units? Today's new requirements require that you select the same single consecutive 24­ month period within the 10­ year look back period to calculate the baseline actual emissions for all existing emissions units that will be changed. See, for example, new § 52.21( b)( 48)( ii)( e). The result will be that the baseline actual emissions for each affected pollutant will be based on the same consecutive 24­ month period as well. You will have the option to select the single 24­ month period that best represents the collective level of operation ( and emissions) for your existing emissions units. If a particular existing emissions unit did not yet exist during the 24­ month period you select to calculate the baseline actual emissions, you must count that emissions unit's emissions rate as zero for that full period of time. If an emissions unit operated for only a portion of the particular 24­ month period that you select, you must calculate its average annual emissions rate using an emissions rate of zero for that portion of time when the unit was not in operation. For new emissions units ( a unit that has existed for less than 2 years) that will be changed by the project, the baseline actual emissions rate is zero if you have not yet begun operation of the unit, and is equal to the unit's PTE once it has begun to operate. 8. Am I Able To Apply Today's Changes for Calculating the Baseline Actual Emissions to Other Major NSR Requirements? No, as stated in section II. A, you are only allowed to use the new baseline methodology in today's rule for three specific purposes involving existing emissions units as follows. For modifications, to determine a modified unit's pre­ change baseline actual emissions as part of the new actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test For netting, to determine the prechange actual emissions of an emissions unit that underwent a physical or operational change within the contemporaneous period. You may select separate baseline periods for each contemporaneous increase or decrease. For PALs, to establish the PAL level. If you determine that the modification of your source is a major modification, you must revert to using the existing definition of `` actual emissions'' to determine your source's actual emissions on a particular date to satisfy all other NSR permitting requirements, including any air quality analyses ( for example, compliance with NAAQS, PSD increments, AQRVs) and the amount of emissions offsets required. For example, when you must determine your source's compliance with the PSD increments following a major modification, you must still use the allowable emissions from each emissions unit that is modified, or is affected by the modification. An existing source's contribution to the amount of increment consumed should be based on that source's actual emissions rate from the 2 years immediately preceding the date of the change, although the reviewing authority shall allow the use of another 2­ year period if it determines that such period is more representative of that source's normal operation. See, for example, § 52.21( b)( 21)( ii). Also, any determination of the amount of emissions offset that must be obtained by a major modification subject to the nonattainment NSR requirements under § 51.165( a) should be based on calculations using the existing definitions of `` actual emissions'' and `` allowable emissions.'' See new § 51.165( a)( 3)( ii)( H). D. The Actual­ to­ Projected­ Actual Applicability Test for Physical or Operational Changes to Existing Emissions Units Including EUSGUs 1. How are post­ change actual emissions calculated under today's revised rule? Today, we are amending the major NSR rules to enable you to use an applicability test that is similar to the applicability test that currently applies to EUSGUs ( that is, the actual­ torepresentative actual­ annual emissions test). The new test allows you to project the post­ change emissions of all modified existing emissions units ( including EUSGUs) in the same manner. That is, under today's new provisions for non­ routine physical or operational changes to existing emissions units, rather than basing a unit's post­ change emissions on its PTE, you may project an annual rate, in tpy, that reflects the maximum annual emissions rate that will occur during any one of the 5 ( or in some circumstances 10) years immediately after the physical or operational change. The first year begins on the day the emissions unit resumes regular operation following the change and includes the 12 months after this date. This projection of the unit's annual emissions rate following the change is defined as the `` projected actual emissions'' ( see, for example, § 52.21( b)( 48)), and will be based on your maximum annual rate in tons per year at which you are projected to emit a regulated NSR pollutant, less any amount of emissions that could have been accommodated during the selected 24­ month baseline period and is not related to the change. Accordingly, you will calculate the unit's projected actual emissions as the product of: ( 1) The hourly emissions rate, which is based on the emissions unit's operational capabilities following the change( s), taking into account legally enforceable restrictions that could affect the hourly emissions rate following the change( s); and ( 2) the projected level of utilization, which is based on both the emissions unit's historical annual utilization rate and available information regarding the emissions unit's likely post­ change capacity utilization. In calculating the projected actual emissions, you should consider both the expected and the highest projections of the business activity that you expect could be achieved and that are consistent with information your company publishes for business­ related purposes such as a stockholder prospectus, or applications for business loans. From the initial calculation, you may then make the appropriate adjustment to subtract out any portion of the emissions increase that could have been accommodated during the unit's 24­ month baseline period and is unrelated to the change. Once the appropriate subtractions have been made, the final value for the projected actual emissions, in tpy, is the value that you compare to the baseline actual emissions to determine whether your project will result in a significant emissions increase. The adjustment to the projected actual emissions allows you to exclude from your projection only the amount of the emissions increase that is not related to the physical or operational change( s). In comparing your projected actual emissions to the units' baseline actual emissions, you only count emissions increases that will result from the project. For example, as with the electric utility industry, you may be able to attribute a portion of your emissions increase to a growth in demand for your product if you were able to achieve this higher level of production during the consecutive 24­ month period you selected to establish the baseline actual emissions, and the increased demand for the product is unrelated to the change. For Clean Units, if a given project can be constructed and operated at a Clean Unit without causing the emissions unit VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80197 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 19 Your ability to use the full 10 years for calculating any contemporaneous emissions change is contingent upon the availability of valid and sufficient source information for the selected 24­ month period. See, for example, new § 52.21( b)( 48)( ii)( f). to lose its Clean Unit status, then no emissions increase will occur. For new units, however, you must continue to calculate post­ change emissions on the basis of a unit's PTE. 2. Will My Projection of Projected Actual Emissions Become an Enforceable Emission Limitation as Suggested in the 1998 NOA? No, we did not adopt such a requirement. If you have an existing emissions unit and your project results in an increase in annual emissions that exceeds the baseline actual emissions by a significant amount, and differs from your projection of post­ change emissions that you were required to calculate and maintain records of, then you must report this increase to your reviewing authority within 60 days after the end of the year. Since modified EUSGUs are required to report their post­ change annual emissions to the reviewing authority annually, any occurrence of a significant increase will be covered under that report for the affected calendar year. See section II. D. 6 of this preamble for a more detailed discussion of the reporting requirements. 3. How Do I Determine How Long My Post­ Change Emissions Will Be Tracked To Ensure That My Project Is Not a Major Modification? Generally, your projected actual emissions must be tracked against your facility's post­ change emissions for 5 years following resumption of regular operations whether you are an EUSGU or other type of existing emissions unit. We will presume that any increases that occur after 5 years are not associated with the physical or operational changes. However, you may be required to track emissions for a longer period of time under the following circumstances. If you are an existing emissions unit and one of the effects of your physical or operational change( s) is to increase a unit's design capacity or PTE, you must track your emissions for a period of 10 years after the completion of the project. This extended period allows for the possibility that you could end up using the increased capacity more than you projected and such use might lead to significant emissions increases. 4. What Are the Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements for Projects? Reporting and recordkeeping for a project is required when three criteria are met: ( 1) You elect to project postchange emissions rather than use PTE; ( 2) there is a reasonable possibility that the project will result in a significant emissions increase; and ( 3) the project will not constitute a major modification. In such circumstances, you must document and maintain a record of the following information: a description of the project; an identification of emissions units whose emissions could increase as a result of the project; the baseline actual emissions for each emissions unit; and your projected actual emissions, including any emissions excluded as unrelated to the change and the reason for the exclusion. In addition, if your project increase is significant, you must record your netting calculations if you use emissions reductions elsewhere at your major stationary source to conclude that the project is not a major modification. For covered projects, you must record this information before beginning actual construction. If you are an EUSGU, you must also send this information to your reviewing authority before beginning actual construction. Note, however, that if you chose to use potential emissions as your projection of post­ change emissions, you are not required to maintain a record of this decision. In addition, today's final rules require you to maintain emissions data for all emissions units that are changed by the project. You must maintain this information for 5 years, or 10 years if applicable. The information you must maintain may include continuous emissions monitoring data, operational levels, fuel usage data, source test results, or any other readily available information of sufficient accuracy for the purpose of determining an emissions unit's post­ change emissions. If you are an EUSGU, you must report this information to your reviewing authority within 60 days after the end of any year in which you are required to generate such information. Other existing units must report to the reviewing authority any increase in the post­ change annual emissions rate when that rate: ( 1) Exceeds the baseline actual emissions by a significant amount, and ( 2) differs from the projection that was calculated before the change. See, for example, new § 52.21( r)( 6)( iii). In addition to the reporting requirements discussed above, you are also obligated to ensure that the necessary emissions information you are required to maintain is available for examination upon request by the reviewing authority or the general public. 5. How Do Today's Changes Affect the Netting Methodology for Existing Emissions Units ( Other Than EUSGUs)? If your calculations show that a significant emissions increase will result from a modification, you have the option of taking into consideration any contemporaneous emissions changes that may enable you to `` net out'' of review, that is, show that the net emissions increase at the major stationary source will not be significant. The contemporaneous time period will not change under the Federal PSD program as a result of today's action. That is, creditable increases and decreases in emissions that have occurred between the date 5 years before construction of the particular change commences and the date the increase from that change occurs are contemporaneous. See § 52.21( b)( 3)( ii). States will continue to have some discretion in defining `` contemporaneous'' for their own NSR programs. Although we are not changing our definition of `` contemporaneous,'' today's action allows existing emissions units ( other than EUSGUs) to calculate the baseline actual emissions for each contemporaneous event using the 10­ year look back period. That is, you can select any consecutive 24­ month period during the 10­ year period immediately preceding the change occurring in the contemporaneous period to determine the baseline actual emissions for each creditable emissions change. Generally, for each emissions unit at which a contemporaneous emissions change has occurred, you should use the 10­ year look back period relevant to that change. 19 When evaluating emissions increases from multi­ unit modifications, if more than one emissions unit was changed as part of a single project during the contemporaneous period, you may select a separate consecutive 24­ month period to represent each emissions unit that is part of the project. In any case, the calculated baseline actual emissions for each emissions unit must be adjusted to reflect the most current emission limitations ( including operational restrictions) applying to that unit. `` Current'' in the context of a contemporaneous emissions change refers to limitations on emissions and source operation that existed just prior to the date of the contemporaneous change. E. Clarifying Changes to WEPCO Provisions for EUSGUs The method you use to calculate the baseline actual emissions for an existing EUSGU to determine whether there is a VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80198 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 20 Letter from John S. Seitz, Director, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, to Patrick M. Raher, August 6, 2001. significant emissions increase from a physical or operational change at an EUSGU, and to determine whether a significant net emissions increase will occur at the major stationary source, will not change as a result of today's final rulemaking. The rule provides that for an existing EUSGU you may calculate the baseline actual emissions as the average annual emissions ( tpy) of the emissions unit using any 2­ year period out of the 5 years immediately preceding the modification. ( This was set out as a presumption in the preamble for the 1992 WEPCO amendments.) This rule recognizes the ordinary variability in demand for electricity. See, for example, new § 52.21( b)( 21)( ii). For example, a cold winter or hot summer will result in high levels of demand while a relatively mild year will produce lower demand. By allowing a utility to use any consecutive 2 years within the past 5, the rule recognizes that electricity demand and resultant utility operations fluctuate in response to various factors such as annual variability in climatic or economic conditions that affect demand, or changes at other plants in the utility system that affect the dispatch of a particular plant. By allowing utilities to use as a baseline any consecutive 2 years in the last 5 years, these types of fluctuations in operations can be more realistically considered. The reviewing authority shall allow the use of a different time period upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source operation. In an August 6, 2001 letter, 20 we addressed the issue of whether combined cycle gas turbines ( the gas turbines and waste heat recovery components) came within the definition of `` electric utility steam generating units'' for the purpose of determining whether such units are eligible to use the WEPCO `` applicability test.'' The letter concluded that `` steam generating units'' include not only electric utility plants with boilers, but also plants with combined cycle gas turbines if the combined cycle gas turbine systems supply more than one­ third of their potential electric output capacity and more than 25 MW electrical output to any utility power distribution system for sale. Consequently, qualifying combined cycle gas turbines must also use the 2­ in­ 5­ years baseline method. Finally, today's rules provide the same method for EUSGUs that will exist for all other existing emissions units to project post­ change emissions following a physical or operational change to a unit. In the 1996 proposal, we proposed a range of options for addressing the applicability of changes that are made to existing emissions units, including the option of extending the actual­ to­ futureactual test, then available only to utilities, to all source categories. While we have decided to leave the WEPCO rules intact in most respects, we believe that it is reasonable and appropriate to establish a consistent method for sources to use for projecting the postchange emissions that will result from a physical or operational change to an existing emissions unit. Therefore, under today's new rules, the current method of basing the projection on the 2 years following the change to an EUSGU is being replaced with the method available to all other existing units, under which you project a unit's post­ change emissions as the maximum annual rate that the unit will emit in any one of the 5 years following resumption of regular operations. F. The `` Hybrid'' Applicability Test for Projects Affecting Multiple Types of Emissions Units 1. When Does the Hybrid Applicability Test Apply to You? The hybrid applicability test applies if you plan a project ( or series of related projects) that will affect emissions units of two or more of the following types. Existing emissions units New emissions units Clean Units 2. How Do I Determine Whether My Project Will Result in a Significant Emissions Increase Under the Hybrid Test? For the first two types of emissions units listed above that are affected by the project, calculate the emissions increase as we have discussed previously in this preamble. That is, use the actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test for existing units and the actual­ to­ potential test for new emissions units. Clean Units are discussed fully in section V of this preamble. If a given project can be constructed and operated at a Clean Unit without causing the emissions unit to lose its Clean Unit status, no emissions increase shall be deemed to occur at that Clean Unit. If a given project would cause the emissions unit to lose its Clean Unit status, then the increase in emissions should be calculated as if the emissions unit is not a Clean Unit. After you calculate the emissions increase for each relevant unit, total the increases across all the emissions units of all types. If this total emissions increase equals or exceeds the level defined as significant for the regulated NSR pollutant in question, the project will result in a significant emissions increase for that pollutant. You'll find the regulatory language for determining whether a project will result in a significant emissions increase at § § 51.165( a)( 2)( vii)( D), 51.166( a)( 7)( vi)( d), and 52.21( a)( 2)( vi)( d). In section II. C. 8 of this preamble, we indicate that the baseline actual emissions for all units that are not EUSGUs that are changed by a project must be calculated based on the same consecutive 24­ month period within the previous 10 years. The same principle applies under the hybrid test, but it can be slightly more complicated if both EUSGUs and non­ EUSGUs are involved. In this case, you must use the same baseline period for all emissions units affected by the project. This baseline period must be selected so as to meet the requirements for both EUSGUs and non­ EUSGUs. Thus, you must select a 2­ year period out of the previous 5 years for your baseline period, as required for EUSGUs ( and within the requirements for non­ EUSGUs). If you wish to use another period that you believe is more representative ( as allowed for EUSGUs), the entire period must fall within the previous 10 years ( as required for non­ EUSGUs). 3. How Do I Determine the Net Emissions Increase From My Project Under the Hybrid Test? If you conclude that a significant emissions increase will result from the proposed project, you have the option of taking into consideration any contemporaneous emissions changes that may enable you to `` net out'' of review, that is, show that the net emissions increase at the major stationary source will not be significant. The netting analysis is carried out under the hybrid test just as it is under the other applicability tests. Refer to section II. D. 7 of this preamble for a discussion of netting methodology. G. Legal Basis for Today's Action The Act defines modification for the purposes of PSD and nonattainment NSR through cross­ reference to the NSPS definition of `` modification.'' The NSPS definition states that a modification `` means any physical change in, or change in the method of operation of, a stationary source which increases the amount of any air VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80199 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 21 See, for example, WEPCO Rule, 57 FR 32316 (`` fundamental distinctions between the technologybased provisions of NSPS and the air quality­ based provisions of NSR''). See also ASARCO Inc. v. EPA, 578 F. 2d 319 ( D. C. Cir. 1978). 22 The explanation of the applicability test for `` Clean Units'' is discussed in section V. 23 `` Business Cycles in Major Emitting Source Industries.'' Eastern Research Group; September 25, 1997. This study examined the business fluctuations for nine source categories described as CAA major emitting sources. Industry business cycles were examined using industry output data Continued pollutant emitted by such source or which results in the emission of any air pollutant not previously emitted.'' CAA section 111( a)( 4), 42 U. S. C. 7411( a)( 4). The Act is silent, however, on the issue of how one is to determine whether a physical or operational change increases the amount of any air pollutant emitted by the source. Accordingly, EPA is exercising its discretion in interpreting and providing clarity to this issue. We believe that the rules set forth today are `` a permissible construction of the statute.'' Chevron U. S. A., Inc. v. NRDC, 467 U. S. 843 4 ( 1984). The reviewing court should defer to it. Id. at 837. In the NSPS program, we determine whether there has been an `` increase in any air pollutant emitted'' by the source by comparing its maximum hourly achievable emissions before and after the change. EPA and the courts have recognized, however, that the NSR programs and the NSPS programs have different goals, 21 and thus, we have utilized different emissions tests in the NSR programs. Prior to today, the regulations applied an actual­ to­ futureactual applicability test for EUSGUs and an actual­ to­ potential applicability test for all other emissions units. Today, we are establishing a new applicability test for calculating emissions increases for `` Clean Units'' and an actual­ toprojected actual applicability test for all other emissions units. We believe that establishing an actual­ to­ projectedactual applicability test for all emissions units is a reasonable interpretation of the phrase `` increase of any pollutant emitted.'' 22 H. Response to Comments and Rationale for Today's Actions We received numerous comments on our proposed rule regarding the calculation of the baseline actual emissions and the actual­ to­ futureactual test. Some of the significant comments and our responses to them are provided below. A complete set of comments and our responses can be found in the Technical Support Document located in the docket for this rulemaking. 1. Why Are We Extending the Look Back Period for Determining the Baseline Actual Emissions to 10 Years? Most commenters generally support our proposal to allow owners and operators to use a 10­ year look back period to determine the baseline actual emissions for modifications at any existing emissions unit. Commenters have various reasons for supporting or opposing the proposed approach. Many supporters agree that extending the baseline look back period to 10 years would simplify current regulations and provide certainty to sources who otherwise would have to demonstrate to the reviewing authority that a period other than the 2 years immediately preceding the proposed change was more representative of normal source operation. Some commenters support the proposal because it would prevent the perceived confiscation of underused capacity at sources that have had low utilization rates for an extended period. These commenters agree that a 10­ year look back period is more likely to afford a source a baseline actual emissions calculation that best reflects representative source operating conditions and would also account for fluctuations in the business cycle. Some commenters criticize the proposed 10­ year look back period as being too long. These commenters recommend either a 5­ year or 2­ year look back period. One of these commenters states that the 10­ year look back creates the opportunity for a source to increase production to the 10­ year maximum, and prevents the State or local air regulators from addressing the increase in emissions. Thus, the commenter believes that sources would be allowed to use historic emissions levels that are higher than current levels to establish the baseline actual emissions. Some commenters add that the proposed change would not reduce program complexity. Some commenters believe that instead of extending the period for establishing baseline actual emissions, the test for establishing modifications should be changed. According to the commenters, the problem is not that the current system does not go back far enough to set a fair actual emissions baseline, but that the methodology does not account for the fact that most emissions units are operating at an activity level much lower than the allowed activity level. The commenters believe that many of the real problems associated with the current major modification applicability test would be eliminated if the procedure was modified in an equitable manner. A commenter also adds that EPA may also want to include provisions that prevent a source from applying the new definition of actual emissions in a way that would retroactively enable the source to reverse a previous major modification determination and to eliminate any emissions reduction previously required for that major modification. We continue to believe that it is reasonable and appropriate to adopt the new method for establishing a modified unit's baseline actual emissions. It is important to understand the difference between the purpose of the new procedure, which uses the 10­ year look back, and the existing procedure under the pre­ existing definition of `` actual emissions'' at § 52.21( b)( 21( ii), which generally requires the use of an average annual emissions rate based on the 2­ year period immediately preceding a particular date. The latter procedure is designed to estimate a source's actual emissions at a particular time and continues to be appropriate for such things as estimating a source's impact on air quality for PSD increment consumption. On the other hand, the new baseline procedure is specifically designed to allow a source to consider a full business cycle in determining whether there will be an emissions increase from a physical or operational change. Generally, a source's operations over a business cycle cover a range of operating ( and emissions) levels not simply a single level of utilization. The new procedure recognizes that market fluctuations are a normal occurrence in most industries, and that a source's operating level ( and emissions) does not remain constant throughout a source's business cycle. The use of a 24­ month period within the past 10 years to establish an average annual rate is intended to adjust for unusually high short­ term peaks in utilization. Consequently, the new procedure ensures that a source seeking to make changes at its facility at a time when utilization may not be at its highest can use a normal business cycle baseline by allowing the source to identify capacity actually used in order to determine an average annual emissions rate from which to calculate any projected actual emissions resulting from the change. With respect to the commenters' general concerns that a 10­ year look back period is too long, we sought to better understand what time period best represents an industry's normal business cycle. Therefore, we contracted for a study of several industries in 1997.23 This study found that, for the VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80200 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations for the years 1982 to 1994 inclusive, based on the Office of Management and Budget's SIC codes for individual industries ( OMB, 1987). industries analyzed, business cycles differ markedly by industry, and may vary greatly both in duration and intensity even within a particular industry. Nevertheless, we concluded from the study that 10 years of data is reasonable to capture an entire industry cycle. Comments from various industries support a conclusion that a 10­ year look back period is a fair and representative time frame for encompassing a source's normal business cycle. We believe that the use of a 10­ year look back period will help provide certainty to the process and eliminate the ambiguity and confusion that occurred when an applicant and the reviewing authority disagreed on what time frame provides the period most representative of normal source operation. The new requirements also provide certainty to the look back period, since there is no opportunity to select another period of time outside this 10­ year period. ( See additional discussion in section II. E. 2.) In addition, we have placed certain restrictions on when the full 10­ year look back period may be used. ( See section II. E. 3.) With regard to the concern that industry may try to apply the new requirements retroactively to undo current restrictions on existing sources, we want to reiterate that the new procedures do not apply retroactively to existing NSR permits or changes that sources have made in the past. Prior applicability determinations on major modifications and the control requirements that currently apply to sources remain valid and enforceable and have to be adjusted for in the calculation of baseline actual emissions. However, as part of the transition process for implementing the new provisions, we do intend to allow permit applicants to withdraw any permit applications submitted for review under the part 52 Federal PSD permit program so that they may reevaluate their projects in light of the new requirements. States may allow for the same type of transition process under their own NSR programs. Finally, we considered whether we should change the length of the look back period for EUSGUs for establishing the actual emissions baseline period to be consistent with the 10­ year look back period we are adopting for other existing emissions units. The data we collected to support the 1992 rule changes show that allowing EUSGUs to use any 2­ year period out of the preceding 5 years is a sufficient period of time to capture normal business cycles at an EUSGU. We do not believe that any information received during the public comment period for this final rule adequately supports a different conclusion. Thus, we have decided to retain the 2­ in­ 5­ years baseline period for EUSGUs. However, for consistency with the baseline period for other existing emissions units, we have specified that the 2­ year period is a consecutive 24­ month period. 2. Why Do the New Requirements Not Provide Discretion for the Reviewing Authority To Consider Another Time Period More Representative of Normal Operation for Non­ EUSGUs? Several commenters oppose our proposed elimination of the reviewing authority's discretion to allow a different representative period ( outside of the 10­ year period), because they argue certain sources ( for example, emissions units placed in cold reserve due to reduced demand) require this flexibility. Some commenters say the discretion should be given to the reviewing authority, while other commenters wanted the discretion given directly to source owners and operators. Instead of the discretion to use an alternate period, one commenter prefers that all sources should be required to show that they have selected a representative period that precedes the most recent 2­ year period. We believe that use of a fixed 10­ year look back period provides the desired clarity and certainty to the process of selecting an appropriate utilization/ emissions level that is representative of a source's normal operation. A bounded 10­ year look back provides certainty to the regulated community that may be undermined by an option to allow an unbounded alternative period as well. 3. Why Are We Placing Restrictions on the Use of a 10­ Year Look Back for Setting the Baseline Actual Emissions? Numerous commenters responded to our concern that many sources might lack accurate records for the full 10­ year look back period, and to our request for comments on the need to condition the full use of the 10­ year period upon the accuracy and completeness of available data, as well as the need to establish specific criteria for accuracy, completeness, and recordkeeping when using older data. A number of commenters generally support limiting full use of the 10­ year look back period to situations in which adequate emissions and/ or capacity utilization data are available. Some commenters also recommend that EPA issue minimum criteria to reduce the number of case­ by­ case determinations and help reviewing authorities avoid debates with sources on what constitutes sufficient data. On the other hand, one commenter recommends that we not adopt a variable look back period based on the quality of the older data because it would `` add considerable uncertainty and protracted debate to the process. . . .'' If, however, we choose to limit the look back period based on the quality of older data, then this commenter and several others prefer provisions allowing for case­ by­ case decisions by State or local reviewing authorities over specific criteria established by EPA. Today's amendments condition the full use of the new 10­ year look back period on the accuracy and completeness of your records of emissions and capacity utilization, with respect to the 24­ month period you select, for any emissions unit that undergoes a physical or operational change. See, for example, new § 52.21( b)( 48)( f). As with all emissions calculations, accuracy and completeness are central elements for applicability determinations. In many cases, sources presently maintain accurate records on emissions and operations for only 3 to 5 years. Thus, we think it is appropriate to limit use of the full 10­ year look back period when you do not have adequate data for the time period you wish to select. However, this limitation should be alleviated over time as sources begin to maintain records for longer periods to accommodate the 10­ year look back opportunity. We also agree that adequacy of any given data should be left to the case­ bycase judgment of individual reviewing authorities. The type of data necessary to determine emissions will vary drastically from source category to source category and from process to process within a source category. At this time, we are not able to issue generic criteria that would apply to all types of industries. We are further restricting your use of the 10­ year look back for emissions units that are located in nonattainment areas and OTRs. In such cases, you are precluded from using any portion of the 10­ year look back that precedes November 15, 1990 the date of the 1990 CAA Amendments to establish baseline actual emissions for those units. This limit on the use of the 10­ year look back is consistent the intent of the 1996 NPRM, which was originally proposed to apply to the use of the 10­ year look back for any modification of an existing facility in a nonattainment VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80201 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations area or OTR. See 61 FR 38259 ( July 23, 1996). However, because we are now beyond the point where the November 15, 1990 limit is relevant to modifications, we are only applying this limitation in the netting context with respect to emissions units changed within the contemporaneous period. 4. Why Were Changes Made to the Proposed Approach for Establishing Baseline Actual Emissions Using a 10­ Year Look Back? Commenters raise specific questions about how to use the 10­ year look back to calculate an emissions unit's baseline actual emissions. Several commenters are concerned about how the utilization rate would be considered in the calculation. For example, some commenters support the proposal to allow sources to use their highest capacity achieved during any consecutive 12 months, because it provides improved flexibility in establishing a capacity level that is representative of normal operations. However, other commenters object to using the 12 months with the highest utilization. These commenters argue that the use of production rates can be unworkable because there is not always a clear relationship between production rate and emissions. In addition, reliable records may not be available to determine the highest production rates. As an alternative, commenters suggest using emissions from any 12­ month period in the preceding 10 years, adjusted to reflect current rules, or allowing the source to use any 12­ month period of its choice. A related issue raised by commenters is whether to require any current Federal, State, or voluntary limit to be included in the establishment of the baseline actual emissions. Some commenters say these provisions would penalize sources that complied with other regulatory requirements or chose to implement pollution prevention programs. Commenters are particularly concerned that sources be given credit for voluntary reductions. However, other commenters support including all of these factors in the baseline to better represent actual emissions and avoid inconsistencies between emissions units that have permits and those that do not. Commenters also raise specific questions about how the calculation would include the effect of other emission limitations. As described earlier, we have decided to require the use of a consecutive 24­ month period within the 10­ year look back instead of the proposed 12­ month period to calculate the baseline actual emissions for any emissions unit that undergoes a physical or operational change, or is affected by such change. The longer 24­ month period allows you to reference levels of utilization achieved in the past, but also eliminates the potential problem associated with short­ term peaks that do not truly represent the unit's normal operation. In this respect, the use of a 24­ month period is consistent with the preexisting approach for calculating actual emissions. With respect to commenters' concerns about being required to use the period of highest utilization, our reference in the proposal preamble to selecting the period of highest utilization was based on our general assumption that the period of maximum utilization also represents the period of highest pollution levels for the unit of concern. However, you are not required to select the period of highest utilization. The choice of which consecutive 24­ month period within the 10­ year window to use is up to you. The two restrictions on the selection of the appropriate consecutive 24­ month period, as described earlier, are the availability of adequate and complete source records for the unit of concern and the limit on using dates earlier than November 15, 1990 for contemporaneous emissions changes in nonattainment areas and OTRs. We agree with the concerns expressed by some commenters that the baseline actual emissions calculated from the consecutive 24­ month period selected could yield a higher pollution level than a unit is currently allowed to emit. We do not believe that we should allow a source to take credit for baseline actual emissions that exceed the current, legally allowable emissions rate. Consequently, the new requirements require you to determine whether any legally enforceable limitations currently exist that would prevent the affected unit from emitting a pollutant at the levels calculated from the 24­ month baseline period. The approach that we have adopted allows you to reference plant capacity that has actually been used, but not pollution levels that are not legally allowed at the time the modification is to occur. You will be required to make adjustments for voluntary reductions that you may have taken only to the extent that the reductions resulted from conditions that are legally enforceable limitations. 5. How Does the Change in the Baseline Period Affect Related Requirements Regarding Protection of Air Quality? a. How Does the Extended Baseline Period Conform With the Special Modification Provisions Under Sections 182( c) and ( e) of the Act? Most commenters feel the proposed extension of the look back period fits within the design and intent of the special modification procedures set forth in sections 182( c) and ( e) of the Act, applicable in serious, severe, and extreme ozone nonattainment areas. However, one commenter representing State and local air pollution control agencies considers the new requirements to be in significant conflict with the special modification procedures contained in those sections of the Act. The commenter indicates that this conflict could be resolved by deferring to relevant requirements for modifications in serious, severe, and extreme areas. The commenter adds that while NSR programs are tools to attain and maintain compliance with the NAAQS, they should not be available to undermine specific statutory and SIP requirements designed to resolve nonattainment problems. We disagree with the commenter's concern that the use of a 10­ year look back period to implement sections 182( c) and ( e) of the Act for purposes of establishing a modified unit's baseline emissions will undermine any statutory or SIP requirements designed to address nonattainment problems. The two sections establish special procedures for determining whether a proposed modification of a major stationary source of ozone in a serious, severe, or extreme ozone nonattainment area will be subject to major NSR under part D of the Act. The Act is silent on the issue of how one is to determine whether a physical or operational change increases the amount of a pollutant for a changed emissions unit. We believe, therefore, that we have the authority to establish a regulatory procedure for making the required determinations concerning emissions increases resulting from physical or operational changes. In light of the fact that the 10­ year look back period may be used for emissions units ( other than EUSGUs) that are involved in contemporaneous emissions changes ( for netting purposes), it should be noted that the new requirements prohibit the use of the look back period earlier than November 15, 1990. Consequently, for emissions units whose contemporaneous emissions changes occurred before November 15, 2000, the consecutive 24­ month period selected VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80202 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 24 Guidance for modeling NAAQS compliance under the PSD program is set forth in EPA's Guideline on Air Quality Models contained in appendix W of 40 CFR part 51. This guidance is incorporated by reference both in the Federal PSD regulations and in the minimum requirements for SIPs under the part 51 PSD regulations. for calculating the baseline actual emissions relevant to the contemporaneous emissions change cannot include a date prior to November 15, 1990. It should be pointed out, however, that for modifications involving emissions of volatile organic compounds ( VOC) in areas classified as `` extreme,'' the statutory language is clear that the increase in emissions resulting from the change is not required to be a significant increase, but rather that `` any increase'' that is projected using the new actual­ toprojected actual applicability test will trigger the applicable NSR requirements. b. Will the Longer Look Back Period Related to the Baseline Actual Emissions Protect Short­ term Increments and NAAQS? Some commenters express concerns that the opportunity to take credit for older baseline actual emissions would result in adverse environmental consequences. One commenter specifically indicates that the proposed baseline actual emissions determination process, involving a 10­ year look back, would allow significant increases in emissions to escape the ambient impact review requirements otherwise required by NSR. Today's new rule modifies the way your NSR applicability determinations are made for changes made to existing emissions units. The new rule does not affect the way in which a source's ambient air quality impacts are evaluated. Compliance with the NAAQS is accomplished with air quality dispersion models using maximum allowable emission limitations ( or federally enforceable permit limits) combined with operating factors, which consider either design capacity or actual operating factors averaged over the most recent 2 years of operation, from all modeled sources. 24 In addition, any increase in actual emissions, based on the existing definition of `` actual emissions,'' consumes PSD increment whether it occurs through normal source operation or as a result of a physical or operational change. As mentioned earlier, the existing definition of `` actual emissions'' continues to apply with regard to all NSR requirements other than the new source applicability tests. See, for example, new § 52.21( b)( 21)( i). Thus, we do not believe there is a basis for concluding that the use of a longer look back period for determining a modified emissions unit's baseline actual emissions ( for purposes of determining whether a physical or operational change will result in a significant emissions increase) will cause any adverse environmental impacts. 6. Why Was the Contemporaneous Period for Netting Not Also Changed to a 10­ Year Look Back Period? In the 1996 NPRM, we indicated that we were not proposing to extend the 5­ year contemporaneous period along with the proposed 10­ year look back period associated with the establishment of baseline actual emissions. See 61 FR 38259 ( July 23, 1996). We did, however, solicit comments on the effect of the differing look back periods and any reasons why these periods should be the same. Commenters responded in a variety of ways to our request, with no clear consensus as to whether it would be appropriate to establish a uniform look back period. One commenter supports the 10­ year contemporaneous period for reasons of consistency. Other commenters believe that it was reasonable to use two different time frames. Some commenters support retaining the 5­ year contemporaneous period because changing it could have adverse effects on existing permit determinations. Several commenters support the selection of a different contemporaneous time frame than the existing 5­ year period, but they differ in their recommendations for changing it. One suggests giving the source the option of choosing either a 10­ year or 5­ year contemporaneous period. Another commenter believes that a 1­ year period would reduce confusion. Finally, another commenter proposes a 5­ year contemporaneous period that would not mandate that 5 consecutive years be considered. We do not believe that there is a compelling reason to change the existing 5­ year contemporaneous period. The look back periods serve different purposes and need not be the same in order to effectively implement the NSR program objectives. States retain the flexibility in defining a different contemporaneous period under SIP­ approved NSR programs, and may use that flexibility to adjust the contemporaneous period if they believe that a different period is more appropriate for their purposes under the new applicability requirements. See, for example, § 51.166( b)( 3)( ii). Therefore, under today's new requirements, we have not changed the 5­ year contemporaneous period under the Federal PSD program. It should be noted that for purposes of determining the baseline actual emissions of a contemporaneous change in emissions from an emissions unit that was an existing unit at the time of the contemporaneous change, the new requirements authorize a source to use the 10­ year look back period. 7. Why Was the Demand Growth Exclusion Retained? When we proposed to expand the scope of the WEPCO rulemaking to cover modifications at any existing emissions unit, we solicited comment on whether the demand growth exclusion ( currently available only to EUSGUs) should also be available to all source categories. In 1998, we noted that there were problems that could arise with the demand growth exclusion. 63 FR 39860 39861 ( July 24, 1998). Accordingly, we solicited comment on this new position. Several regulatory agency and environmental commenters support the total elimination of the demand growth exclusion. These commenters maintain that a facility's post­ change emissions increases due to demand growth could not be disassociated from those that resulted directly from the physical or operational change. These commenters believe the demand growth exclusion would be difficult to enforce. The demand growth exclusion would, they claim, also be burdensome because it would require projections, estimates, and post­ modification evaluations of increased emissions to determine whether the increases were the result of increased demand. On the other hand, numerous industry commenters oppose eliminating the demand growth provisions, stating that market factors do independently cause emissions increases absent physical and operational changes. These commenters maintain that when projected increased capacity utilization is in response to an independent factor, such as demand growth, the increased utilization cannot be said to result from the change and therefore may rightfully be excluded from the projection of the emissions unit's future­ actual emissions. They further argue that such increases should not be included in post­ change emissions even in the absence of a demand growth exclusion, as the increases would not be the result of the physical or operational changes that were made. Consequently, these commenters state that the proposed demand growth exclusion simply makes that principle explicit and eliminates confusion as to how emissions should VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80203 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations be calculated. The same commenters who support retaining demand growth provisions for utilities also believe these provisions should be extended to nonutilities Under today's new requirements, you will be allowed to apply the causation provision as originally contained in the WEPCO amendments. Both the statute and implementing regulations indicate that there should be a causal link between the proposed change and any post­ change increase in emissions, that is, ``* * * any physical change or change in the method of operation that would result in a significant net emissions increase * * *'' [ emphasis added]. See, for example, existing § 52.21( b)( 2)( i). Consequently, under today's new rules, when a projected increase in equipment utilization is in response to a factor such as growth in market demand, you may subtract the emissions increases from the unit's projected actual emissions if: ( 1) The unit could have achieved the necessary level of utilization during the consecutive 24­ month period you selected to establish the baseline actual emissions; and ( 2) the increase is not related to the physical or operational change( s) made to the unit. See for example, new § 52.21( b)( 41)( ii)( c). On the other hand, demand growth can only be excluded to the extent that the physical or operational change is not related to the emissions increase. Thus, even if the operation of an emissions unit to meet a particular level of demand could have been accomplished during the representative baseline period, but the increase is related to the changes made to the unit, then the emissions increases resulting from the increased operation must be attributed to the project, and cannot be subtracted from the projection of projected actual emissions. 8. Should Increases in Plant Utilization Be Reviewed as Potential Major Modifications? Many commenters argue that emissions increases resulting from increased utilization should not be subjected to review as major modifications. They insist that EPA's policy and rules have always allowed increases in capacity utilization without triggering a modification, and not allowing utilization increases will limit new capacity to new emissions units instead of promoting increased efficiency at existing emissions units. One commenter argues that these sorts of changes do not require any sort of applicability determination and that Congress never anticipated that the NSR program would hamper a source's ability to increase utilization up to the original design capacity. We believe that an increase in utilization should not trigger the major NSR requirements unless it is related to a physical or operational change. As explained earlier, the CAA only applies the major NSR requirements to emissions increases that are the result of a physical or operational change. Thus, we do not believe that the major NSR requirements should apply to a utilization increase unless the increase is related to the modification. Under today's final rules, you may exclude emissions related to an increase in utilization if you were able to accommodate the increase in utilization during the 24­ month period you select to establish your baseline actual emissions and the increased utilization is not related to the change. 9. Why Must You Track Physical or Operational Changes That Increase a Unit's Design Capacity or Potential To Emit Post­ Change Actual Emissions for a Longer Period of Time? We raised this issue in the 1998 NOA. Several commenters support applying what we then termed the `` actual­ toenforceable future­ actual'' test to increases in design capacity or PTE because it would be inappropriate to automatically assume that such increases will affect normal operations, which would require the actual­ topotential test. They say that these types of modifications are common and do not generally increase emissions because they improve efficiency and add control devices. One commenter explains that it is not uncommon for an emissions unit's capacity to be increased so as to speed up normal operations without increasing production, and that projected actual emissions could easily be calculated on the basis of past operating experience. On the other hand, another commenter indicates that it is very expensive to increase design capacity. Therefore, it can be assumed that a company would use the additional capacity as soon as it becomes available. Several regulatory agency commenters support the use of the actual­ topotential test for modifications that increase design capacity or PTE. One of these commenters stated that such modifications would alter an emissions unit's normal operation and make previous actual emissions `` unreliable and irrelevant.'' We do not believe that every modification that includes added capacity or an increase in the PTE is intended for full use of that new capacity or PTE. Such actions could well be intended to enhance current operations without resulting in increased production or operation. Therefore, under today's new requirements, you are not required to count the emissions increase that would result from full use of new capacity or PTE if you conclude that: ( 1) Such capacity or PTE will not be fully utilized, and ( 2) the emissions increase resulting from that portion of the capacity that will be used will not result in a significant emissions increase from the modification or a significant net emissions increase at the source. The new requirements include a provision that requires you to monitor the emissions from the project for 10 years following the resumption of regular operation of the emissions units modified. The 10­ year period reflects our determination that this time frame best captures the normal business cycle for industry in general. Thus, in situations where your proposed project will in fact add new capacity or PTE to an existing emissions unit, yet you determine that the objective of the physical or operational change is not to use the increased capacity, your calculation of representative projected actual emissions may reflect this. However, you must maintain adequate information for 10 years following the completion of the project to track the actual annual emissions from the units associated with the project. This represents a special condition that supersedes the normal 5­ year period for the recordkeeping requirements being adopted today. During the 10­ year period, you must report to your reviewing authority within 60 days after any year if the annual emissions, in tpy, from the project exceed the baseline actual emissions by a significant amount for the regulated NSR pollutant and if such emissions differ from the preconstruction projection. 10. Does the Actual­ To­ Projected­ Actual Applicability Test Apply to Netting? We did not specifically request comment on this issue in the 1996 proposal. Nonetheless, we received several comments that assert that use of different methods to compute an emissions increase and determine a net emissions increase would result in `` absurd results'' and require two separate accounting records. Other commenters oppose using the actual­ tofuture actual test for netting. One commenter says that the sole purpose of the actual­ to­ future­ actual test was to determine if an emissions increase will occur. One commenter says we should go further and revise the definition of VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80204 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 25 Information supporting these values can be found in the docket for today's rulemaking. `` contemporaneous'' to limit it to project activities ( vs. plantwide) and reduce credits for shutdowns and curtailments. As stated previously, we did not specifically request comment on this issue and we are not promulgating amendments to the netting regulations, on this point, at this time. 11. Should We Impose an Enforceable Projected Actual Emissions Level? Some commenters on our 1996 proposal support the establishment of an enforceable limitation on the modified source's projected future emissions level. Other commenters support our specific proposal in the 1998 NOA to use the projected actual emissions as a temporary cap for the emissions units involved in the project, that is, an enforceable 10­ year emissions level. On the other hand, many other commenters oppose the concept, citing various reasons for their opposition. These included concerns that it would become a de facto baseline for any additional permitting and create additional enforcement liability, usurp State prerogatives, be inconsistent with the CAA, and require enforceable restrictions for too long. A few State and local air reviewing agencies indicate that they do not have the resources to adequately administer a program that would require permits to be issued for every physical or operational change at a major stationary source. Today's new requirements follow the 1996 proposal. You will not be required to make the projected actual emissions projection through a permitting action. After considering the comments received, we are concerned that such a requirement may place an unmanageable resource burden on reviewing authorities. We also believe that it is not necessary to make your future projections enforceable in order to adequately enforce the major NSR requirements. The Act provides ample authority to enforce the major NSR requirements if your physical or operational change results in a significant net emissions increase at your major stationary source. 12. Why Are Modified Sources That Are Not Considered Major Modifications Not Required To Submit Annual Reports of Actual Emissions Under the New Requirements? Several commenters support our proposal to require sources to track post­ change emissions for a 5­ year period so that there is a factual finding as to whether emissions from the modified units actually increased. These commenters believe that the requirement to track emissions is a needed safeguard and that it should not be too difficult to track various operating parameters. They add that non­ utilities should be able to track emissions as well as utilities. Finally, commenters who oppose the proposed 10­ year enforceable limit support retaining the 5­ year tracking period in its place. Many other commenters object to the burden that tracking would impose in the absence of any additional environmental benefit. Some commenters suggest ways to reduce the burden, such as not requiring sources to report emissions unless there is a problem or reducing the tracking period to 2 or 3 years. Another industry commenter suggests that we require an up­ front notification to the reviewing authority whenever the actual­ to­ futureactual applicability test is used. We agree with those commenters who recommend that you should be required to track emissions for a period of time following a modification. Thus, we have retained our proposed requirement to maintain annual emissions information for a period of 5 years following resumption of regular operations after the change. As discussed previously, we expanded this requirement to 10 years for changes that increase an emissions unit's capacity or its potential to emit a regulated NSR pollutant. However, although we proposed a requirement for annual emissions reporting, we have concluded that the combination of the recordkeeping requirements of this rule, along with a requirement to report to the reviewing authority any annual emissions that exceed your baseline actual emissions by a significant amount for the regulated NSR pollutant and differ from your preconstruction projection, is an equally effective way to ensure that a reviewing authority can receive the information necessary to enforce the major NSR requirements. Moreover, your reviewing authority has the authority to request emissions information from you at any time to determine the status of your post­ change emissions. In response to the concern that these requirements might impose unnecessary burdens, we have also included further limits. First, you are only required to keep records if you elect to use the actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test to calculate your emissions increase from the project. Second, you are only required to keep the records if there is a reasonable possibility that your project might result in a significant emissions increase. Finally, you only need keep those records for projects that are not major modifications. We also considered requiring you to submit an up­ front notification to your reviewing authority, but concluded that this would result in an unnecessary paperwork burden. ( EUSGUs, however, will be required to submit a copy of their projections to reviewing authorities before beginning actual construction.) We anticipate that a large majority of the projects that are not major modifications may nonetheless be required to undergo a permit action through States' minor NSR permit programs. In such cases, the minor NSR permitting procedures could provide an opportunity to ensure that your reviewing authority agrees with your emission projections. Requiring a separate notification would not provide the reviewing authority with any additional information in such circumstances. Accordingly, we believe today's requirements provide reviewing agencies with the ability to obtain all the information necessary to ensure compliance. 13. Why Are We Promulgating Different Reporting Requirements for Existing Emissions Units Than for EUSGUs? Today we are finalizing slightly different requirements for EUSGUs than other industries. In 2000, boilers and turbines with greater than 25 MWe or 250 mmBTU/ hr of generating capacity represented 76 percent of this nation's emissions of nitrogen oxides ( NOX) and 85 percent of this nation's emissions of SO2 from stationary sources. 25 In view of the disproportionate amount of emissions generated by EUSGUs compared to other industry sectors, we believe that it is appropriate for reviewing authorities to have information on construction and modification activities at EUSGUs readily available. Accordingly, we are requiring EUSGUs to provide a copy of their emissions projection to the reviewing authority before beginning actual construction of a project. We are also requiring them to report their postchange annual emissions for every year they are required to generate them. This approach also makes sense because it focuses the limited resources of both sources and agencies on the sources that matter most. III. CMA Exhibit B In addition to the proposed changes based on the 1992 WEPCO amendments ( see section II of this preamble), the 1996 proposal package included alternative regulatory language that would enable you to determine whether VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80205 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations your facility has undertaken a modification based on the facility's prechange and post­ change potential emissions instead of its actual emissions. This action was part of the settlement of a challenge to our 1980 NSR regulations by CMA and other industry petitioners. The exact language we proposed was set forth in Exhibit B to the Settlement Agreement, which is contained in the docket for this rulemaking. Under this method, sources may calculate emissions increases and decreases based on the actual emissions method or the unit's pre­ change and post­ change potential emissions, measured in terms of hourly emissions ( that is, pounds of pollutant per hour). Sources could use this potential­ topotential test for NSR applicability, as well as for calculating offsets, netting credits, and other ERCs. We proposed to make several changes to the NSR regulations. First, we proposed to add the following exclusion to the definition of `` major modification'': A major modification shall be deemed not to occur if one of the following occurs: ( a) there is no significant net increase in the source's PTE ( as calculated in terms of pounds of pollutant emitted per hour); or ( b) there is no significant net increase in the source's actual emissions. Second, we proposed to delete all references to `` actual emissions'' in the definition of `` net emissions increase'' and added language indicating that all references to `` increase in emissions'' and `` decreases in emissions'' in the definition of `` net emissions increases'' `` shall refer to changes in the source's PTE ( as calculated in terms of pounds of pollutant emitted per hour) or in its actual emissions.'' Third, we proposed to modify the applicability baseline by eliminating the reference to the 2­ year baseline period and to a method for determining actual emissions during the representative period. Finally, we proposed to provide express authorization for sources to use potential emissions in calculating offsets and in creating ERCs. We also indicated in the preamble for the 1996 proposed rulemaking that if we promulgated the Exhibit B settlement as a final rule, the Exhibit B rules would need to be updated to reflect other rule changes since 1980, as well as relevant provisions of the 1990 Amendments. Before proposing the Exhibit B language, we did a preliminary analysis of the impact on the NSR program of the Exhibit B changes. These changes would provide maximum flexibility to existing facilities with respect to determining if a significant net emissions increase would result from a physical or operational change. However, we also expressed concern about the environmental consequences associated with the Exhibit B provisions. For one, you could modernize your aging facilities ( restoring lost efficiency and reliability while lowering operating costs) without undergoing preconstruction review, while increasing annual pollution levels as long as hourly potential emissions did not change. Also, Exhibit B would allow your facilities to generate netting credits and ERCs for offsets based on potential hourly emissions, even if never actually emitted. This could sanction greater actual emissions increases to the environment, often from older facilities, without any preconstruction review. In addition, actual emissions increases resulting from unreviewed projects could go largely undocumented until a PSD review is performed by a new or modified facility that ultimately must undergo review. By that time, however, a violation of an increment could have unknowingly occurred. We were also concerned that Exhibit B would ultimately stymie major new source growth by allowing unreviewed increases of emissions from modifications of existing sources to consume all available increment in PSD areas. In our analysis supporting the 1996 proposal, we were unable to reach any conclusions as to the magnitude of any environmental impacts beyond noting that the effects would vary from State to State depending on how much cumulative difference exists between the unused potential emissions and actual emissions in a given inventory of sources and on the extent to which any unused potential emissions have been used in attainment demonstrations. However, our analysis did show that typical source operation frequently does result in actual emissions that are below allowable emission levels. We received many comments in response to the 1996 proposal regarding CMA Exhibit B. Some commenters believe the potential­ to­ potential test appropriately focuses on the significant emissions changes that could produce an adverse environmental impact. Several other commenters believe that a potential­ to­ potential test would be environmentally detrimental. These commenters believe that CMA Exhibit B represents a substantial weakening of the PSD program with large increases in actual emissions, which in itself could lead to a significant deterioration of air quality. They also express concerns regarding the creation of paper credits and other impacts on the broader air quality planning process. One commenter states that the potential­ topotential test would conflict with SIPs that are based on actual emissions, threaten a State's efforts to make reasonable further progress ( RFP) demonstrations, and interfere with emission credits relied on by SIPs. These commenters also cite the following concerns. The potential­ to­ potential test would allow sources to escape the major modification provisions and could virtually eliminate NSR in most modification cases. Once a facility has proceeded without NSR based on actual emissions, it would be difficult to take an enforcement action years later that would successfully require that facility to retrofit LAER and obtain offsets retrospectively. We agree that a potential­ to­ potential test for major NSR applicability could lead to unreviewed increases in emissions that would be detrimental to air quality and could make it difficult to implement the statutory requirements for state­ of­ the­ art controls. After consideration, we believe some of the comments in support of Exhibit B have merit. As noted by commenters who supported the CMA Exhibit B proposal, a potential­ to­ potential test could simplify and improve the NSR process. According to commenters, the CMA Exhibit B approach would have the following benefits. Limit the scope of the program to encompass only those significant physical changes that Congress intended to cover Reduce unnecessary NSR costs and delays and improve compliance and enforcement Lower the cost of the NSR process by reducing the complexity of the NSR applicability determinations Facilitate applicability decisions at the plant level The commenters also say that the CMA Exhibit B approach is more equitable than the existing actual­ topotential approach, which results in the capture of a source's unused capacity. These commenters prefer the potentialto potential test because it would allow utilization increases. This provision is especially useful for sources in cyclical industries where using existing capacity is critical. Sources in sectors where utilization and demand are closely related would also benefit. Our own concerns, coupled with the concerns expressed by some commenters, have caused us to reject the use of the Exhibit B regulatory changes for general purposes of determining whether a proposed VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80206 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 26 In our 1996 proposal we used the term `` actual emissions,'' while today we are using the term `` baseline actual emissions.'' This change in terminology is consistent with the regulatory changes discussed in section II of today's preamble. Despite this change in terminology, there may be places in this section of the preamble where we still use the phrase `` actual emissions.'' In such cases we are either discussing PALs established under the old regulatory provisions, or summarizing and responding to comments received on the 1996 proposal. 27 Under our current NSR program, you can make physical changes or changes in the method of operation without triggering major NSR applicability, provided the individual changes do not result in significant net emissions increases. We have interpreted this requirement to permit you to make unrelated changes that, standing alone, do not result in significant emissions increases and to allow such changes to occur without considering whether other contemporaneous emissions increases render the change significant. Over time you could undertake numerous unrelated projects without triggering major NSR, provided the individual projects did not increase emissions by a significant amount, thus allowing source­ wide emissions to increase over time without requiring any emissions controls for these individual projects. For example, a large chemical plant that is located in an ozone attainment area adds a new product line in 2001 and properly avoids PSD ( including the BACT requirement) by limiting the VOC emissions increase to 39 tpy. Later, in 2003 the plant adds a different product line and also properly avoids PSD by limiting VOC emissions from the new line to 39 tpy. For this example, two process lines at the same plant with total potential emissions ( 78 tpy) above the 40 tpy VOC significant level under PSD were properly permitted over a 3­ year period without BACT applying to either new product line. physical or operational change would result in a major modification. For the reasons stated above, we do not believe that a potential­ to­ potential approach is acceptable for major NSR applicability as a general matter. However, we agree with the commenters in part some of the benefits of a potential­ to­ potential approach are desirable. We believe that in more limited circumstances a `` potential­ to­ potential''­ like approach would be acceptable. Therefore, we are promulgating two new applicability provisions that capture the benefits of a potential­ to­ potential approach but still have the necessary safeguards to ensure environmental protection PALs, and the Clean Unit Test. Today's rules provide for a PAL based on plantwide actual emissions. If you keep the emissions from your facility below a plantwide actual emissions cap, then you need not evaluate whether each change might be subject to the major NSR permitting when you make alterations to the facility or individual emissions units. The cumulative actual emissions become the de facto potential emissions for the plant, and you may emit up to the permitted level without going through major NSR, even if you are making changes to the facility. The PAL allows you to make changes quickly by allowing you to alter your facility without first going through major NSR review. It thus limits the number and complexity of NSR applicability determinations, and reduces unnecessary costs and delays. It also allows a plant manager to authorize changes, as long as the emissions remain under the permitted level, without first obtaining reviewing authority review. Furthermore, it provides an incentive to use state­ of­ theart controls and install new, lower emitting equipment, which will allow sources to increase utilization. In return for the flexibility a PAL allows, you must monitor emissions from all of your emissions units under the PAL. Therefore, the PAL ensures good controls and protection of air quality. We believe there are other mechanisms for establishing PALs that would achieve beneficial results. For example, we believe PALs based on allowable emissions would produce flexibility and assure environmental protection, provided affected sources had adequate safeguards. Therefore, we intend in the near future to propose a rule that would adopt PALs based on allowable emissions. Analogous to what the PAL does for facilities, the Clean Unit Test sets emission limitations or work practice requirements in conjunction with BACT, LAER, or Clean Unit determinations and identifies any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT, LAER, or Clean Unit determination for a particular unit. The Clean Unit Test recognizes that if you go through major NSR review ( including air quality review) and install BACT or LAER or comparable technology, then you may make any subsequent changes to the Clean Unit without triggering an additional major NSR review, as long as there is no need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that were adopted in conjunction with BACT, LAER, or Clean Unit determination or to alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT, LAER, or Clean Unit determination. Therefore, for Clean Units, given that the permit is based on a determination that is protective of air quality, the new test would deem there is no emissions increase as a result of any physical change or change in the method of operation. With these provisions, sources will have improved certainty and flexibility, reduced burden, and opportunity for utilization increases without compromising air quality. Like the PAL, the Clean Unit includes necessary safeguards by requiring enforceable permit terms and conditions to ensure environmental protection. IV. Plantwide Applicability Limitations A. Introduction Today we are adopting a final rule for a PAL option that is based on the baseline actual emissions 26 from major stationary sources. A PAL is an optional approach that will provide you, the owners or operators of major stationary sources, with the ability to manage facility­ wide emissions without triggering major NSR. We believe the added flexibility of a PAL allows you to respond rapidly to market changes consistent with the goals of the NSR program. The final rules we are adopting today also benefit the public and the environment. Reviewing authorities, usually States, can only establish a PAL by using a public process that affords citizens the opportunity to comment upon the proposed PAL. This process is designed to assure local communities that air emissions from your major stationary source will not exceed the facility­ wide cap set forth in the permit unless you first meet the major NSR requirements. We believe that a PAL provides a more complete perspective to the public because in setting a PAL, your reviewing authority accounts for all current processes and all emissions units together and reflects the long­ term maximum amount of emissions it would allow from your source. Moreover, to comply with a PAL you must meet monitoring requirements prescribed in the rules that ensure that both your reviewing authority and the public have sufficient information from which to determine plantwide compliance. Additionally, through the final PAL regulations, we are promoting voluntary improvements in pollution controls by creating an incentive for you to control existing and new emissions units to maintain a maximum amount of operational flexibility under the PAL. Most importantly, for pollutants subject to a PAL, we are prohibiting serial, small, unrelated emissions increases, 27 which otherwise can occur under our existing regulations. If you choose to use it, we believe you will benefit from the PAL option because you will have increased operational flexibility and regulatory certainty, a simpler NSR applicability approach, and fewer administrative burdens. To comply with a PAL, you need to ensure that there are no emissions increases from your major stationary source, as measured against the PAL. For you to do that, there is no need for you to quantify VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80207 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 28 The term `` voluntary'' means that you have the option of entering into a PAL, rather than voluntary compliance with a PAL that is in place. Once you have a permit with PAL requirements, you must comply with the requirements. 29 Results of our study are reported in `` Evaluation of the Implementation Experience with Innovative Air Permits.'' A complete copy of this report is located in the docket for today's rulemaking. contemporaneous emissions increases and decreases for individual emissions units. Through the PAL we are allowing you to make timely changes to react to market demand and providing you additional certainty regarding the level of emissions at which your source will be required to undergo major NSR. The benefit to you is that you will not have to make numerous applicability decisions using different baselines. Also, in some situations where you would have been unable to `` net out'' a new project in the major NSR program, under a PAL you can begin construction on your new project without obtaining a major NSR permit, which can take from a few months up to 2 years. In addition, because you may make emissions reductions at emissions units under the PAL to create room for growth at other units, through the PAL we are providing a strong incentive for you to employ innovative control technologies and pollution prevention measures, to create voluntary emissions reductions to facilitate economic expansion. B. Relevant Background 1. What Is a PAL and How Does a PAL Compare to Other Major NSR Requirements and Netting? The concept of a PAL is simple. Under the Act, you are not subject to major NSR unless you make a `` modification,'' which by definition cannot occur without an emissions increase. CAA section 111( a)( 4). A PAL is a source­ wide cap on emissions and is one way of making sure that emissions increases from your major stationary source do not occur. The existing regulations require `` major modifications'' to undergo NSR, and the existence of a `` significant net emissions increase'' at the facility is a necessary prerequisite to a `` major modification.'' See, for example, § § 52.21( b)( 2) & ( 3); see also Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council, 467 U. S. 837, 863 64 ( 1984). Under our current system, we determine whether a `` significant net emissions increase'' occurs at your major stationary source by focusing initially on the change to the emissions unit( s) and then broadening the analysis to include other changes within the source. In order to determine whether there is a `` significant net emissions increase'' under major NSR as revised today, you must establish a pre­ change baseline for each change, project the actual level of emissions after the change, calculate the creditable emissions increases and decreases that have occurred that are contemporaneous with the change, and determine whether the change would result in a significant net emissions increase. We refer to this applicability process as `` netting'' under the major NSR regulations. Both you and reviewing authorities have maintained that the netting rules are unnecessarily complex and burdensome, and have urged us to craft rules that link NSR applicability to compliance with a predictable source­ wide emissions cap. We are responding to that request with the PAL concept. A PAL is a voluntary, 28 source­ specific, straightforward, flexible approach to account for changes, including alterations to existing emissions units and the addition of new emissions units, at your existing major stationary sources. Complying with the PAL ensures that there are no emissions increases that trigger major NSR. If your emissions of the PAL pollutant remain below the PAL, and you comply with all other PAL requirements, whatever changes occur at your plant will not be subject to major NSR for the PAL pollutant. Our July 23, 1996 proposal contains a thorough discussion of the proposed PAL concept and the background information used to develop the proposal. 2. Why Does EPA Believe That PALs Will Benefit the Environment? Over the past several years, we have allowed use of major stationary sourcewide emissions caps to demonstrate compliance with major NSR in a select number of pilot projects. We recently reviewed six of these innovative air permitting efforts and found substantial benefits associated with the implementation of permits containing emissions caps ( among other types of permit terms offering greater flexibility than major NSR permitting programs). 29 Specifically, we reviewed on­ site records to track utilization of these flexible permit provisions, to assess how well the permits are working and any emissions reductions achieved, and to determine if there were any economic benefits of the permits. Overall, we found that significant environmental benefits occurred for each of the permits reviewed. In particular, the six flexible permits established emissions cap­ based frameworks that encouraged emissions reductions and pollution prevention, even though such environmental improvements were not an explicit requirement of the permits. We found that in a cap­ based program, sources strive to create enough headroom for future expansions by voluntarily controlling emissions. For instance, one company lowered its actual VOC emissions over threefold in becoming a synthetic minor source ( that is, 190 tpy to 56 tpy). Other companies lowered their actual VOC emissions by as much as 3600 tpy by increasing capture, by using voluntary pollution prevention and other voluntary emissions control measures, and by reducing production rates. Participants reported that having the ability to make rapid, iterative changes to optimize process performance in ways that minimize emissions, and that reduce the administrative `` friction'' ( time delays and uncertainty) associated with making operational and equipment changes, encourages facilities to make changes that improve yields and reduce per­ unit emissions. It is also critical for responding to product development needs and market demand, and for maintaining overall competitiveness. Reviewing authorities consistently reported that the permits worked well and proved beneficial, and that there was a reduction in the number of caseby case permitting actions they needed to undertake. Specifically, we found that flexible permit provisions ( for example, emissions caps) are enforceable as a practical matter by using a mixture of mass balance­ based equations, CEMS, and parameter monitoring. No emissions cap exceedances or violations of the monitoring provisions were experienced by any of the pilot sources. In addition, the monitoring and reporting approaches worked well and were generally of higher quality and of more extensive scope than those directly required by individual applicable requirements. Based on the results of these pilot projects, we believe that PALs will over time tend to shift growth in emissions to cleaner units, because the growth will have to be accommodated under the PAL cap. Specifically, we expect that PALs will encourage you to undertake such projects as: replacing outdated, dirty emissions units with new, more efficient models; installing voluntary emissions controls; and researching and implementing improvements in process efficiency and use of pollution prevention technologies, so that you can maintain maximum operational flexibility. We also expect that you and the reviewing authority will need to devote substantially fewer resources to VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80208 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 30 The key determination to be made is whether an emissions unit is `` permanently shut down.'' This issue is discussed in the Administrator's response to a petition objecting to an operating permit for a facility in Monroe, Louisiana. See Monroe Electric Generating Plant, Petition No. 6 99 2 ( Adm'r 1999). A copy of this decision is in the docket. In general, we explained in our `` reactivation policy'' that whether or not a discussing and reviewing whether major NSR applies to individual changes. Thus, overall, we believe that PALs will prove to be as beneficial to the environment as they are to you and your reviewing authority. 3. What Did We Propose for PALs? On July 23, 1996, we proposed to amend the NSR regulations to specifically authorize PALs and to clarify the methodology under which you can obtain a PAL. Under the proposal, your reviewing authority could have elected to include provisions in its SIP to allow you to apply for a permit that based your source's major NSR applicability on compliance with a pollutant­ specific, source­ wide emissions cap. We proposed that a facility's PAL would generally be based on source­ wide `` actual emissions'' plus an operating margin of emissions less than a significant emissions increase. We also sought comment on the circumstances under which it would be appropriate to use something other than actual ( for example, `` allowable'') emissions to set the PAL. On July 24, 1998, we published a notice in the Federal Register seeking further comment on how the PAL regulations could be reconciled with several environmental and legal concerns. The notice discussed how the PAL alternative fits within the Act's requirements for determining if changes at existing sources are subject to major NSR. Today we are adopting final regulations that address the issues and comments raised in the 1998 notice and the 1996 proposal. C. Final Regulations for Actuals PALs Today's action establishes final regulatory provisions for actuals PALs. We are placing these requirements in the major NSR rules for nonattainment areas at § 51.165( f), and in the PSD regulations ( applicable in attainment and unclassifiable areas) at § § 51.166( w) and 52.21( aa). The PAL option adopted today provides you with a voluntary alternative for determining NSR applicability. Actuals PALs are rolling 12­ month emissions caps ( that is, tpy limits) that include all conditions necessary to make the limitation enforceable as a practical matter. Through the regulations, we are allowing PALs on a pollutant­ specific basis and are also allowing you to opt for actuals PALs for more than one pollutant at your existing major stationary sources. You must continue to apply the major NSR applicability provisions to air pollutants at your source for which you have no PAL. This section sets forth the specific requirements for actuals PALs. The section addresses the following items: ( 1) The process used to establish a PAL and the public participation requirements; ( 2) how the PAL level is determined; ( 3) how long a PAL is effective and what happens when a PAL expires; ( 4) can a PAL be terminated before the end of its effective period; ( 5) how a PAL is renewed; ( 6) how a PAL can be increased during the effective period; ( 7) circumstances that would cause your PAL to be adjusted during the PAL effective period; ( 8) whether a PAL can eliminate enforceable emission limitations previously taken to avoid major NSR; ( 9) the compliance requirements and monitoring, recordkeeping, reporting, and testing ( MRRT) requirements that the permit must contain for emissions units under your PAL; ( 10) the process for incorporating conditions of the PAL into your title V operating permit; and ( 11) an example of how an actuals PAL would work under the regulations finalized today. 1. What Are the Permit Application Requirements, What Is the Process Used To Establish a PAL, and What Are the Public Participation Requirements? Under today's final rules, you must submit a complete application to your reviewing authority requesting a PAL. The application, at a minimum, must include a list of all emissions units, their size ( major, significant, or small); the Federal and State applicable requirements, emission limitations and work practice requirements that each emissions unit is subject to; and the baseline actual emissions for the emissions units at the source ( with supporting documentation). The calculation of baseline actual emissions must include fugitive emissions to the extent they are quantifiable. The reviewing authority must establish a PAL in a federally enforceable permit ( for example, a `` minor'' NSR construction permit, a major NSR permit, or a SIP­ approved operating permit program). To comply with our final regulations, the reviewing authority must provide an opportunity for public participation when issuing a PAL permit. This process must be consistent with the requirements at § 51.161 and include a minimum of a 30­ day period for public notice and opportunity for public comment on the proposed permit. Where the PAL is established in a major NSR permit, major NSR public participation procedures apply. When establishing a PAL, you must comply with all applicable requirements of the reviewing authority's minor NSR program, including modeling to ensure the protection of the ambient air quality. Additionally, you must meet all applicable title V operating permit requirements. When adding new emissions units under a PAL, you must comply with the reviewing authority's minor NSR permit requirements for public notice, review, and comment. In contrast, when adding new emissions units that will require an increase in a PAL, you must comply with the reviewing authority's major NSR permit requirements for public notice, review, and comment. 2. How Is the Level of the PAL Determined? We calculate the PAL level for a specific pollutant by summing the baseline actual emissions of the PAL pollutant for each emissions unit at your existing major stationary source, and then adding an amount equal to the applicable significant level for the PAL pollutant under § 52.21( b)( 23) or under the CAA, whichever is lower. You must first identify all your existing emissions units ( greater than 2 years of operating history) and new emissions units ( less than 2 years of operating history since construction). When establishing the actuals PAL level, you must calculate the baseline actual emissions from existing emissions units that existed during the 24­ month period as described below. The baseline actual emissions will equal the average rate, in tpy, at which your emissions units emitted the PAL pollutant during a consecutive 24­ month period, within the 10­ year period immediately preceding the application for a PAL. Consistent with today's final rules, you will have broad discretion to select any consecutive 24­ month period in the last 10 years to determine the baseline actual emissions. Only one consecutive 24­ month period may be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for such existing emissions units. For any emissions unit ( currently classified as existing or new) that is constructed after the 24­ month period, emissions equal to its PTE must be added to the PAL level. Additionally, for any emissions unit that is permanently shut down or dismantled 30 since the 24­ month VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80209 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations shutdown should be treated as permanent depends on the intention of the owner or operator at the time of shutdown based on all facts and circumstances. Shutdowns of more than 2 years, or that have resulted in the removal of the source from the State's emissions inventory, are presumed to be permanent. In such cases it is up to the facility owner or operator to rebut the presumption. period, its emissions must be subtracted from the PAL level. Different rules apply for determining baseline actual emissions for EUSGUs. You should refer to the definition of baseline actual emissions to determine the specific method for calculating baseline actual emissions for your emissions units. Consistent with today's final rules for determining baseline actual emissions, your baseline actual emissions for an emissions unit cannot exceed the emission limitation allowed by your permit or newly applicable State or Federal rules ( RACT, NSPS, etc.) in effect at the time the reviewing authority sets the PAL. This means that for the purpose of setting the PAL, your baseline actual emissions for an emissions unit will include an adjustment downward to reflect currently applicable requirements. Additionally, your reviewing authority shall specify a reduced PAL level( s) ( in tpy) in the PAL permit to become effective on the future compliance date( s) of any applicable Federal or State regulatory requirement( s) that the reviewing authority is aware of prior to issuance of the PAL permit. See section II of today's preamble for additional information on determining the baseline actual emissions for your emissions units. 3. How Long Can a PAL Be Effective and What Happens When a PAL Expires? Through the final rules, we are requiring that the term of an actual PAL be 10 years. At least 6 months prior to, but not earlier than 18 months from, the expiration date of your PAL, you must submit a complete application either to request renewal or expiration of the PAL. If you meet this application deadline for a permit renewal, the existing PAL will continue as an enforceable requirement until the reviewing authority renews your PAL, even if the reviewing authority fails to issue a PAL renewal within the specified period of time. As part of an application to request expiration of the PAL, you must submit a proposed approach for allocating the PAL among your existing emissions units. The reviewing authority will retain the ultimate discretion to decide whether and how the allowable emission limitations will be allocated, including whether to establish limits on individual emissions units or groups of emissions units. As under the PAL, your emissions units must comply with their allowable emission limitations on a 12­ month rolling basis. However, the reviewing authority retains the discretion to accept monitoring systems other than CEMS, CPMS, PEMS, etc., from you to demonstrate compliance with these unit­ specific limits. Until the reviewing authority issues the revised permit with allowable emission limitations covering each of your emissions units, your source must comply with a source­ wide multi­ unit emissions cap equivalent to the PAL level. After a PAL expires, physical or operational changes will no longer be evaluated under the PAL applicability provisions. Notwithstanding the expiration of the PAL, you must continue to comply with any State or Federal applicable requirements for a specific emissions unit. ( BACT, RACT, NSPS, etc.) When the PAL expires, none of the limits established pursuant to § § 51.166( r)( 2), 51.165( a)( 5)( ii), or 52.21( r)( 4), which the PAL originally eliminated, would return under today's final rules. 4. Can a PAL Be Terminated Before the End of Its Effective Period? Today's final rules do not contain specific provisions related to the issue of terminating a PAL. Decisions about whether a PAL can or should be terminated will be handled between you and your reviewing authority in accordance with the requirements of the applicable permitting program. 5. How Is a PAL Renewed? As previously discussed, you must submit a complete application to renew a PAL at least 6 months prior to, but not earlier than 18 months from, the expiration date of your PAL. If you submit a complete application to renew the PAL by this deadline, the existing PAL will continue as an enforceable requirement until the reviewing authority issues the permit with the renewed PAL. As part of your renewal application, you must recalculate and propose your maximum PAL level, taking into account newly applicable requirements and the factors described below. Your reviewing authority must review the complete application and issue a proposed permit for public comment consistent with the permitting procedures for issuing the initial PAL. As part of this public process, the reviewing authority must provide a written rationale for its proposed PAL level. If your source's PTE has declined below the PAL level, the reviewing authority must adjust the PAL downward so that it does not exceed your source's PTE. In addition, the reviewing authority may renew the PAL at the same level without consideration of other factors, if the sum of the baseline actual emissions for all emissions units at your source ( as calculated using the definition of `` baseline actual emissions'' at § § 51.165( a)( 1)( xii)( B), 51.166( b)( 21), and 52.21( b)( 21) as amended by today's final rules) plus an amount equal to the significant level is equal to or greater than 80 percent of the PAL level ( unless greater than the current PTE of the major stationary source). However, if the baseline actual emissions plus an amount equal to the significant level is less than 80 percent of the PAL level, the reviewing authority may set the PAL at a level that it determines to be more representative of the source's baseline actual emissions, or that it determines to be appropriate considering air quality needs, advances in control technology, anticipated economic growth in the area, desire to reward or encourage the source's voluntary emissions reductions, cost effective emissions control alternatives, or other factors as specifically identified by the reviewing authority in its written rationale. For instance, a reviewing authority may determine that PAL levels are inconsistent with the levels necessary to achieve the NAAQS, or a State may determine that PAL levels need to be reduced to provide room for new economic growth in the area. In some circumstances, such as in the example cited below, the reviewing authority may exercise its discretion in deciding that an adjustment is not warranted. We believe that such discretion is appropriate, based in part on our experience with the pilot projects previously mentioned. In one instance, a participant voluntarily agreed to reduce its actual emissions by 54 percent in exchange for obtaining a source­ wide emissions cap. After agreeing to this emissions reduction, the participant further reduced emissions by increasing capture efficiency and incorporating pollution prevention strategies into its operations. Unexpectedly, the participant also suffered an unusual economic downturn that caused a decrease in the rate of production and a corresponding decrease in actual emissions. At the time of renewal of the source­ wide emissions cap, the participant's actual emissions were 10 percent of its actual emissions before committing to the emissions cap. The participant chose not to renew its emissions caps, because renewal required an automatic VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80210 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations adjustment to its current actual emissions level. Clearly, such a result contravenes the mutual benefits that operating under a PAL provides, and discourages you from undertaking voluntary reductions. If your source would ordinarily be subject to a downward adjustment, but you believe such an adjustment is not appropriate, you may propose another level. The reviewing authority may approve the level that you propose if it determines, in writing, that the level is reasonably representative of the source's baseline actual emissions. Similarly, the reviewing authority may determine that a lower level best represents the baseline actual emissions from the source. Consistent with the effective period for the initial PAL, all renewed PALs will have a 10­ year effective period. 6. How Can a PAL Be Increased During the Effective Period? The reviewing authority may allow you to increase a PAL during the effective period if you are adding new emissions units or changing existing emissions units in a way that would cause you to exceed your PAL. However, today's rule only authorizes your reviewing authority to allow such an increase if you would not be able to maintain emissions below the PAL level even if you assumed application of BACT equivalent controls on all existing major and significant units ( emissions units that have a PTE greater than a significant amount ( as defined by § 52.21( b)( 23) or the CAA, whichever is lower). Such units must be adjusted for current BACT levels of control unless they are currently subject to a BACT or LAER requirement that has been determined within the preceding 10 years, in which case the assumed control level shall be equal to the emissions unit's existing BACT or LAER control level. The PAL permit must require that the increased PAL level will be effective on the day any emissions unit that is part of the PAL major modification becomes operational and begins to emit the PAL pollutant. Your proposed new emissions unit( s) and your existing emissions units undergoing a change must go through major NSR permitting, regardless of the magnitude of the proposed emissions increase that would result ( for example, no significant level applies). This is because the significant level for the pollutant is incorporated into the PAL. These emissions units must comply with any emissions requirements resulting from the major NSR process ( for example, LAER), even though they have also become subject to the PAL program or remain subject to the PAL. To request a PAL increase, you must submit a complete major NSR permit application. As part of this application, you must demonstrate that the sum of the baseline actual emissions of your small emissions units, plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions from your significant and major emissions units ( adjusted for a current BACT level of control unless the emissions units are currently subject to a BACT or LAER requirement that has been determined within the preceding 10 years, in which case the assumed control level shall be equal to the emissions unit's existing BACT or LAER control level), plus the sum of the allowable emissions of the new or modified existing emissions unit( s), exceeds the PAL. After the reviewing authority has completed the major NSR process, and thereby determined the allowable emissions for the new or modified emissions unit( s), the reviewing authority will calculate the new PAL as the sum of the allowable emissions of the new or modified emissions unit( s), plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of your small emissions units, plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions from significant and major emissions units adjusted for the appropriate BACT level of control as described above. Your reviewing authority must modify the PAL permit to reflect the increased PAL level pursuant to the public notice requirements of § § 51.166( w)( 5), 51.165( f)( 5), or 52.21( aa)( 5) of today's final rule. 7. Are There Any Circumstances That Would Cause Your PAL To Be Adjusted During the PAL Effective Period? During the term of the PAL, at PAL renewal or at title V permit renewal, your reviewing authority may reopen your PAL permit and adjust the PAL level, either upward or downward, as needed by the reviewing authority. While certain activities require mandatory reopening, for others the reviewing authority may reopen at its discretion. The reviewing authority must reopen the permit for the following reasons: ( 1) To correct typographical/ calculation errors made in setting the PAL or to reflect a more accurate determination of emissions used to establish the PAL; ( 2) to reduce the PAL if the owner or operator of the major stationary source creates creditable emissions reductions for use as offsets; or ( 3) to revise a PAL to reflect an increase in the PAL. The reviewing authority may reopen the permit to: ( 1) Reduce the PAL to reflect newly applicable Federal requirements ( for example, NSPS) with compliance dates after the PAL effective date; ( 2) reduce the PAL consistent with any other requirement that is enforceable as a practical matter, and that the State may impose on the major stationary source under the SIP; or ( 3) reduce the PAL if the reviewing authority determines that a reduction is necessary to avoid causing or contributing to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or to an adverse impact on an AQRV that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. While the final rule does not require your reviewing authority to immediately reopen the PAL permit to reflect newly applicable Federal or State regulatory requirements ( for example, NSPS, RACT) that become effective during the PAL effective period, it does require the PAL to be adjusted at the time of your title V permit renewal or PAL permit renewal, whichever occurs first. Notwithstanding this requirement, today's final rule provides your reviewing authority discretion to reopen the PAL permit to reduce the PAL to reflect newly applicable Federal or State regulatory requirements before the time we otherwise require. 8. Can a PAL Eliminate Existing Emission Limitations? An actuals PAL may eliminate enforceable permit limits you may have previously taken to avoid the applicability of major NSR to new or modified emissions units. Under the major NSR regulations at § § 52.21( r)( 4), 51.166( r)( 2), and 51.165( a)( 5)( ii), if you relax these limits, the units become subject to major NSR as if construction had not yet commenced on the source or modification. Should you request a PAL, today's revised regulations allow the PAL to eliminate annual emissions or operational limits that you previously took at your stationary source to avoid major NSR for the PAL pollutant. This means that you may relax or remove these limits without triggering major NSR when the PAL becomes effective. Before removing the limits, your reviewing authority should make sure that you are meeting all other regulatory requirements and that the removal of the limits does not adversely impact the NAAQS or PSD increments. We are not taking a position on whether compliance with requirements contained in a PAL permit could serve to demonstrate compliance with certain pre­ existing requirements on individual units. The reviewing authority may assess on a case­ by­ case basis whether VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80211 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations any streamlining would be appropriate in the title V permit consistent with part 70 procedures and our existing policies and guidance on permit streamlining. 9. What MRRT ( Collectively Referred to as `` Monitoring'') Requirements Must the Permit Contain for Emissions Units Under Your PAL? Each permit must contain enforceable requirements that accurately determine plantwide emissions. A PAL monitoring system must be comprised of one or more of the four general approaches that meet the minimum requirements discussed below, and such monitoring systems must be approved by the reviewing authority. You may also employ an alternative approach if approved by the reviewing authority. Use of monitoring systems that do not meet the minimum requirements approved by the reviewing authority renders the PAL invalid. Any monitoring system authorized for use in the PAL permit must be based on sound science and must conform to generally acceptable scientific procedures for data quality and manipulation. In return for the increased operational flexibility of a PAL, your permit must include sufficient data collection requirements to ensure compliance with the PAL at all times. In addition, the PAL permit must contain enforceable provisions that ensure that the monitoring data meet the minimum legal requirements for admissibility in a judicial proceeding to enforce the PAL permit. This section addresses a number of issues associated with the practical enforceability of PALs and describes concepts that you and reviewing authorities must follow when establishing your PAL. The issues addressed include the following. How do monitoring requirements for emissions units under a PAL differ from those for emissions units that are not under a PAL? What are the testing requirements for your emissions units under a PAL? What monitoring systems are appropriate to demonstrate compliance with your PAL? What information about your proposed data collection systems must be submitted to your reviewing authority for approval? What recordkeeping requirements must your permit contain to demonstrate compliance with your PAL? What reporting requirements for your PAL must your permit contain? a. How Do Monitoring Requirements for Emissions Units Under a PAL Differ From Those for Emissions Units That Are Not Under a PAL? Typically, when an emission limitation applies on a unit­ by­ unit basis, the monitoring must be sufficient to provide data that demonstrate that emissions do not exceed the applicable limit for a particular unit. Under this approach, if an emissions unit has to meet an NSPS VOC limit of 9 ppm, the monitoring need only demonstrate that VOC emissions are no higher than 9 ppm but not measure VOC emissions at any precise level below 9 ppm ( for example, 7 ppm, 8 ppm). In contrast, under a VOC emissions actual PAL, the VOC emissions from each emissions unit must be quantified ( in tpy), generally each month as the sum of the previous 12 months of VOC emissions. Thus, it becomes necessary to require monitoring that quantifies the emissions from each emissions unit to ensure that the annual limit is enforceable as a practical matter. As a result, the monitoring requirements for emissions units under a PAL may be more stringent than for those emissions units not under a PAL. In many instances, your emissions units may have monitoring suitable for determining compliance with a unitspecific emission limitation on a periodic basis, in accordance with title V requirements, but that monitoring frequency of data collection may not be appropriate for ongoing emissions quantification for a 12­ month rolling total. Thus, even if your emissions unit's monitoring meets the title V requirements in § § 70.6( a)( 3)( i)( B) or 70.6( c)( 1), you must upgrade that monitoring if you request a PAL and the existing monitoring does not meet the minimum requirements of the PAL regulations. All units operating under a PAL must have sufficient monitoring to accurately determine plantwide emissions for a 12­ month rolling total. For example, a source owner or operator with five units must be able, at any time, to quantify the baseline actual emissions for the past 12 months for each of the five units. That source should, in advance, outline how it plans to monitor each of the units in order to quantify the emissions. If one of the five units cannot accommodate one of the monitoring options provided in the rule in order to quantify the emissions, then the source owner or operator would be incapable of demonstrating ongoing compliance with the source's PAL. b. What Are the Testing Requirements for Your Emissions Units Under a PAL? As part of your PAL application and as directed by your reviewing authority, you must use current emissions or other current direct measurement data to demonstrate that your monitoring systems accurately determine emissions from each unit subject to a PAL. You will need to collect such data from all units subject to the PAL, including those that are unregulated at the present time. If you do not have current emissions data, or if your emissions unit's operation and equipment have changed since collection of that data, you will need to obtain current, accurate data, typically by conducting performance tests or other direct measurements before submission of your complete permit application to obtain a PAL. In addition, you will need to revalidate the data and any correlation to demonstrate that your monitoring systems continue to accurately determine emissions from each unit subject to a PAL. This re­ validation must occur at least once every 5 years for the life of the PAL. Data must be revalidated through a performance evaluation test or other scientifically valid means that is approved by the reviewing authority. You must conduct all testing in accordance with test methods appropriate to your emissions unit and applicable requirements. For example, among the test methods for measuring organic emissions are Methods 18, 25, 25A, and 25B, which can be found in 40 CFR part 60, appendix A. During testing, your emissions unit must operate within the range you wish to operate, so as to provide an accurate quantification of emissions across the entire range. This may require you to perform more than one performance test. c. What Monitoring Systems Are Appropriate To Demonstrate Compliance With Your PAL? The PAL monitoring system must be comprised of one or more of four general approaches: ( 1) Mass balance for processes, work practices, or emissions sources using coatings or solvents; ( 2) Continuous Emissions Monitoring System ( CEMS); ( 3) Continuous Parameter Monitoring System ( CPMS) or Predictive Emissions Monitoring System ( PEMS) with Continuous Emissions Rate Monitoring System ( CERMS) or automated data acquisition and handling system ( ADHS), as needed; or ( 4) emission factors. Alternatively, another monitoring approach may be VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80212 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations used if approved in advance by the reviewing authority. The monitoring approaches mentioned above must meet minimum requirements established by today's rule. In the mass balance approach, you would consider all of the PAL pollutant contained in or created by any raw material or fuel used in or at your emissions unit to be emitted. Currently, we are limiting this approach to monitoring for processes, work practices, or emissions sources using coatings or solvents. In order to use the mass balance approach, you must validate the content of the PAL pollutant that is contained in or created by any raw material or fuel used on site. This validation may be accomplished by a regular testing program conducted by the vendor of the materials or by an independent laboratory. In addition, you are required to use the upper limit of any content range in the calculations, unless the reviewing authority determines that there is a site­ specific data monitoring system in place at the unit or that there are data to support the use of another content within the range. If your reviewing authority allows you to use a mass balance approach, then the PAL permit must require you to account for all material containing the PAL pollutant or use of all materials that could create PAL pollutant emissions ( through chemical decomposition, by­ product formation, etc.). For instance, if you are subject to a VOC PAL and your emissions units do not utilize add­ on control devices, you may use a mass balance approach to determine compliance. For example, suppose over 1 month you were using 8 tons of solvent with 25 percent VOCs ( as demonstrated using Method 311). You would be required to report and include 2 tons of VOC emissions ( since 8 × 0.25 = 2) for that month to compare with the PAL, even though some of the VOCs may not ultimately be emitted. ( For example, they could be retained in your emissions unit's product or in a process waste.) A CEMS, coupled with a CERMS as well as an ADHS ( collectively known as a CEMS), may be used to measure and verify the PAL pollutant concentration, volumetric gas flow ( if applicable), and PAL pollutant mass emissions discharged to the atmosphere from each emissions unit emitting the PAL pollutant. If your source utilize a CEMS approach, you must ensure that the CEMS meets the applicable Performance Specifications in 40 CFR part 60, appendix B. The CEMS must be capable of data sampling at least once every 15 minutes. In addition, you must be able to convert the data obtained from the CEMS system to a mass emissions rate. These types of monitoring systems are appropriate for emissions sources subject to respective SO2, NOX, carbon monoxide, particulate matter ( PM), VOC, total reduced sulfur ( TRS), or hydrogen sulfide ( H2S) regulations. A CPMS or PEMS coupled with CERMS and ADHS ( collectively known as parameter monitoring), may be used for emissions units as reviewed and approved by your reviewing authority. To determine emissions, parameter monitoring relies on: ( 1) Use of physical principles; ( 2) parameters such as temperature, mass flow, or pressure differential; and ( 3) performance testing results. Users of parameter monitoring must show a correlation between predicted and actual emissions across the anticipated operating range of the unit. An example is a source owner or operator who determines VOC emissions from an incinerator by multiplying the incinerator efficiency by the amount of VOC­ containing material used. Three assumptions are built into the emissions algorithm: ( 1) The VOC content remains constant; ( 2) the control device reduction efficiency remains constant over the temperature range established during performance testing; and ( 3) the unit load remains constant. Checks on these assumptions are established by: ongoing monitoring requirements ( for example, combustion chamber temperature and control device load); ongoing emissions testing requirements ( for example, periodic reevaluation of the correlation between combustion chamber temperature and control device efficiency); and ongoing testing of the VOC content of the material. Another example of parameter monitoring is an organic emissions condenser. The parameter monitoring design in this case is based on the laws of physics and the physical properties of the material ( for example, the lowest condensation temperature of the VOC constituent), the temperature of the condenser, and the maximum material feed rate. Some parameter monitoring works by calculating emissions using data from monitored parameters and a neural network system to optimize performance of a unit. By measuring numerous parameters, the network can then automatically analyze current operations, as well as emissions, and make adjustments to optimize performance. Establishing parameter monitoring is a resource­ intensive effort, requiring extensive up­ front testing, analysis, and development. Recently, we have developed draft performance specifications for evaluating appropriate, acceptable parameter monitoring accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility ( e. g., Performance Specification 16). You and your reviewing authority should review these performance specifications in developing an interim protocol for using parameter monitoring to demonstrate continuous compliance with a PAL. Your approved protocol may require revision as we finalize performance specifications. Today's rule requires you to revalidate your monitoring systems, including parameter re­ certification emissions testing, at least once every 5 years during the PAL permit term. You may conduct such re­ validation as part of any other testing required by other non­ PAL program requirements, such as title V program requirements. If a parameter monitoring approach is taken, the owner or operator must use current site­ specific data to establish the emissions correlations between the monitored parameter and the PAL pollutant emissions across the entire range of the operation of the emissions unit. If the owner or operator cannot establish a correlation for the entire operation range, the reviewing authority shall, at the time of the permit issuance, establish a default value( s) for determining compliance with the PAL based on the highest potential emissions reasonably estimated during the operational times when an emissions correlation is not available. Alternatively, the reviewing authority may decide that operation of the emissions unit during periods where there is no emissions correlation is a violation of the PAL. The PAL permit must include enforceable requirements if either of these alternatives to the required correlation for parameter monitoring are used. Emission factors may be used for demonstrating compliance with PALs, so long as the factors are adjusted for the degree of uncertainty or limitations in the factors' development. In ascertaining whether an emission factor is appropriate, you and your reviewing authority should consider the contribution of emissions from the emissions unit in relation to the PAL, the size of the emissions unit, and the margin of compliance of the emissions unit. In addition, if the emission factor approach is taken, the emissions unit shall operate within the designated range of use for the emission factor. The owner or operator of a significant emissions unit that relies on an emission factor to calculate PAL VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80213 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations pollutant emissions shall conduct validation testing using other monitoring approaches ( if technically practicable) to determine a site­ specific emission factor within 6 months of PAL permit issuance, unless the reviewing authority determines that testing is not required. For example, should you demonstrate to your reviewing authority's satisfaction that the use of your emission factor would yield a result that is protective of the environment, then you may not need to conduct site­ specific performance testing. An emissions unit is considered significant if the emissions unit has the potential to emit the PAL pollutant in amounts greater than those listed in § 51.165( a)( 1)( x). In the event you choose to use one or more emission factors for your significant or small emissions units, you bear the burden to prove to the reviewing authority that the emission factors are appropriate and adjusted for any uncertainty in the factors' development. By way of example, the sulfur dioxide emission factor for 2­ stroke, lean­ burn, natural gas fired reciprocating engines, 5.88 * 10­ 4 pounds of sulfur dioxide emitted per million British Thermal Unit ( mmBTU) of natural gas combusted, as published in our Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors AP 42, Fifth Edition Volume 1: Stationary Point and Area Sources, which is found on our Internet Web site at http:// www. epa. gov/ ttn/ chief/ ap42/ index. html, represents an appropriate emission factor. The reviewing authority may approve other types of monitoring systems that quantify emissions to demonstrate compliance with PALs. Other types of monitoring that may be approved include a Gas Chromatographic ( GC) or a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy ( FTIR) CEMS that relies on extractive techniques, coupled with a CERMS as well as an ADHS, to measure and verify the VOC concentration, volumetric gas flow ( if applicable), and VOC mass emissions ( in lb/ hr) discharged from stacks ( that is, non­ fugitive emissions) to the atmosphere. For processes, work practices, or emissions sources subject to VOC or organic hazardous air pollutant ( HAP) regulations, these types of monitoring systems may be used for each emissions unit emitting VOC. d. What information about your monitoring system must be submitted to your reviewing authority for approval? You need to propose a monitoring system as part of your PAL permit application submission to your reviewing authority. The monitoring system proposed must accurately determine plantwide emissions. In your permit application, you must describe how you will collect and transform data from each emissions unit subject to a PAL permit, so that the emissions from each unit can be quantified as a 12­ month rolling total. In addition, you need to demonstrate how you can be assured the data are and remain accurate by describing how you will install, operate, certify, test, calibrate, and maintain the performance of your monitoring system( s) on each emissions unit that will be subject to the PAL. You will also need to provide calculations for the maximum potential emissions without considering enforceable emission limitations or operational restrictions for each unit in order to determine emissions during periods when the monitoring system is not in operation or fails to provide data. In lieu of the permit requiring maximum potential emissions during periods when there is no monitoring data, you may propose another alternate monitoring approach as a backup. This backup monitoring, however, must still meet the minimum requirements for the monitoring approaches prescribed in the regulation. Note that each monitoring system with applicable requirements contained in appendix B of 40 CFR part 60 must be installed, operated, and maintained according to the applicable Performance Specification of 40 CFR part 60, appendix B. For purposes of determining emissions from an emissions unit, a unit is considered operational not only during periods of normal operation, but also during periods of startup, shutdown, maintenance, and malfunction'even if compliance with a non­ PAL emission limitation is excused during these latter periods. Your reviewing authority may approve different monitoring for various operating conditions ( for example, startup, shutdown, low load, or high load conditions as demonstrated through multiple performance tests) for each emissions unit. You must, however, use one of the accepted monitoring approaches, including alternative monitoring approved by the reviewing authority, for these periods or calculate the emissions during these periods by assuming the highest PTE without considering enforceable emission limitations or operational restrictions. In addition, the rule permits the reviewing authority to use the reasonably estimated highest potential emissions for periods when your emissions unit operates outside its parameter range( s) established in the performance test, unless another method is specified in the permit, and include those emissions in the 12­ month rolling total in order to demonstrate compliance with the PAL. Alternatively, the reviewing authority may decide that operation outside the range( s) established in the performance test is a violation of the PAL. The reviewing authority must decide how to handle emissions when the unit is operating outside the ranges established in the performance tests prior to the issuance of the PAL permit and must include appropriate enforceable conditions in the PAL permit. For parameter monitoring to be approved by your reviewing authority, your proposed monitoring system must measure the operational parameter value( s) within the established sitespecific range( s) of operating parameter values demonstrated in recent performance testing. The monitoring system must then record the associated PAL pollutant mass emissions rate for that period based on the correlations demonstrated with the current test data. e. What Recordkeeping Requirements Must Your Permit Contain To Demonstrate Compliance With Your PAL? Your permit must require you to maintain records of your monitoring and testing data that support any compliance certifications, reports, or other compliance demonstrations. This information should contain, but is not necessarily limited to, the following data. The date, place ( specific location), and time that testing or measuring occurs The date( s) sample analysis or analyses occur The entity that performs the analysis or analyses The analytical techniques or methods used The results of the analyses Each emissions unit's operating conditions during the testing or monitoring A summary of total monthly emissions for each emissions unit at the major stationary source for each calendar month A copy of any report submitted to the reviewing authority A list of the allowable emissions and the date operation began for any new emissions units added to the major stationary source. You must also record all periods of deviation, including the date and time that a deviation started and stopped and whether the deviation occurred during a period of startup, shutdown, or malfunction. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 17: 13 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80214 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations You must retain records of all required testing and monitoring data, as well as supporting information, for at least 5 years from the date of the monitoring sample, measurement, report, or application. Supporting information includes all calibration and maintenance records and all original strip­ chart recordings for continuous monitoring instrumentation, and copies of all required reports. Instead of paper records, you may maintain records on alternative media, such as microfilm, computer files, magnetic tape disks, or microfiche, provided that the use of such alternative media allows for expeditious inspection and review and does not conflict with other recordkeeping requirements. You must also retain a copy of the following records for the duration of the PAL effective period plus 5 years: ( 1) A copy of the PAL permit application and any applications for revisions to the PAL; and ( 2) each annual certification of compliance pursuant to title V and the data relied on in certifying the compliance. f. What reporting requirements for your PAL must your permit contain? You must provide semi­ annual monitoring and prompt deviation reports. The terms and conditions of an approved PAL become title V applicable requirements that will be placed in your title V permit. Therefore, the reports required under title V may meet the requirements of the PAL rule, so long as the minimum reporting requirements listed in the regulations are met. You must submit a semi­ annual emissions report to the reviewing authority within 30 days after the end of each reporting period. The reviewing authority will use this report to determine compliance with the conditions of the PAL, including the PAL level. The compliance period for an actuals PAL emissions level is a consecutive 12­ month period, rolled monthly. Block 12­ month periods are not allowed ( for example, Jan.­ Dec. of each year). The emissions report must include the total baseline actual emissions of the PAL pollutant for the previous 12 months and compare the previous 12 months' total emissions with the PAL level to determine compliance. Additionally, the emissions report must identify: the site; the owner or operator; the applicable PAL; the monitored parameters, the method of calculation with appropriate formulas, any emission factors used, the capture and control efficiencies used and the calculated emissions; total monthly emissions ( tons) and the equations used to compute this value for each of the 12 months before submission of the emissions report ( or for all prior months if the PAL has not been effective for 1 year); total annual emissions ( tpy); a PAL compliance statement; a list of any emissions units added or modified to the site; and information concerning shutdown of any monitoring system, including the method that was used to measure emissions during that period. Finally, in accordance with title V requirements, your permit will require all reports to be certified by your responsible official as true, accurate, and complete. 10. What is the process for incorporating conditions of the PAL into your title V operating permit? As discussed previously, the reviewing authority establishes a PAL in a federally enforceable permit using its minor NSR construction permit process or the major NSR permit construction process and eventually rolling these requirements into its title V operating permit. The reviewing authorities' rules for establishing or renewing PALs must include a public participation process prior to permit approval of the PAL. The process must be consistent with the requirements at § 51.161 and include a minimum 30­ day period for public notice and opportunity for public comment on the proposed permit. PALs established through the major NSR process are subject to major NSR public participation requirements. When adding a new emissions unit under an established PAL, you must comply with the reviewing authority's minor NSR permit requirements for public notice, review, and comment. The process for incorporating the conditions of a PAL into the title V operating permit depends on whether the initial title V permit has already been issued for the source. If the initial title V permit has not been issued, a PAL created in a minor or major NSR permit would be incorporated during initial issuance of the title V permit. If the initial title V permit has already been issued, the PAL would be incorporated through the appropriate part 70 modification procedures. As discussed later in this preamble, we suggest that you request that your reviewing authority renew your title V permit concurrently with issuance of your PAL in order to align the two processes together and decrease the administrative burden on you and your reviewing authority. Once a PAL is established, a change at a facility is exempt from major NSR and netting calculations, but could require a title V permit modification, as could any other change. Whether a title V permit modification would be required, and which permit modification process would be used, is governed by the current part 70 rule as implemented by the reviewing authority. 11. What is an example of an actuals PAL? The following example is based upon a hypothetical source that wishes to obtain an actuals PAL under the final regulations adopted today. A manufacturing plant ( a major stationary source) located in a serious ozone nonattainment area seeks an actuals PAL for VOC in January 2002. The major source threshold for VOC in a serious ozone nonattainment area is 50 tpy and the significant level for VOC modifications is 25 tpy. The plant has 5 emissions units with a total PTE of 640 tpy of VOC. The PTE for VOC for each of the emissions units at the plant is as follows: ( 1) Unit A is 335 tpy; ( 2) unit B is 20 tpy; ( 3) Unit C is 125 tpy; ( 4) unit D is 60 tpy; and ( 5) unit E is 100 tpy. Units A, B, C, and D are existing emissions units with more than 2 years of operating history. Unit E has been in operation for only a year. Unit D was dismantled in year 2000 and is considered permanently shutdown. For units A, B, C, and D, the source has selected July 1, 1996 to June 30, 1998 ( a consecutive 24­ month period) to determine baseline actual emissions. Unit A is subject to a RACT requirement that became effective in year 2000. The baseline actual emissions for each emissions unit during this period are as follows: unit A, 140 tpy ( including RACT adjustment); unit B, 10 tpy; unit C, 90 tpy; and unit D, 20 tpy. The actuals PAL level for VOC is = 260 + 100 ¥ 20 + 25 = 365 tpy WHERE 260 tpy = the sum of the baseline actual emissions for emissions units A D ( with 2 or more years of operation) 100 tpy = the allowable emissions ( PTE) of unit E, which was constructed after the 24­ month period; 20 tpy = baseline actual emissions of unit D, which is permanently shut down since the 24­ month period; and 25 tpy = significant level for VOC in a serious nonattainment area. D. Rationale for Today's Final Action on Actuals PALs We received voluminous comments and suggestions in response to the 1996 NSR proposal, the 1998 NOA, and numerous meetings with interested stakeholders. This section addresses the more significant comments we received. For a more detailed discussion of the comments received and our responses, VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80215 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations please refer to the Technical Support Document included in the docket for this rulemaking. The comment areas addressed in this section include: ( 1) How do the PAL regulations meet the major NSR requirements of the Act? ( 2) Are PALs consistent with the concept of `` contemporaneity'? ( 3) Are PALs permissible in serious and severe nonattainment areas? ( 4) Is it appropriate for a PAL to be based on actual emissions? ( 5) How should actual emissions be determined in setting the PAL level? ( 6) Should emissions from shut down or dismantled units be excluded from a PAL? ( 7) Should a PAL include a margin for growth? ( 8) Should PALs be required to expire? ( 9) Should we require PALs to be adjusted at the time of PAL renewal? ( 10) Should certain new emissions units that are added under a PAL be required to meet some level of emissions control? ( 11) Under what circumstances should you be allowed to increase your PAL and how should we apply the major NSR requirements to that increase? ( 12) What monitoring requirements are necessary to ensure the enforceability of PALs as a practical matter? ( 13) Is EPA adopting an approach that allows area­ wide PALs? and ( 14) When should modeling or other types of ambient impact assessments be required for changes occurring under a PAL? 1. How do the PAL regulations meet the major NSR requirements of the Act? The PAL regulations adopted today meet the requirements of the CAA and are consistent with the Congressional purpose and intent underlying NSR. We believe the PAL regulations constitute a reasonable interpretation of the Act's definition of `` modification'' and are permissible under current law. The definition of `` modification'' set forth in section 111( a)( 4) of the Act is fundamental to determining major NSR applicability. Pursuant to the Act, the term modification means `` any physical change in or change in the method of operation of a stationary source which increases the amount of any air pollutant emitted by such source or which results in the emission of any air pollutant not previously emitted.'' The statute, however, does not prescribe the methodology for establishing a stationary source's emissions baseline from which emissions increases are measured. When a statute is silent or ambiguous with respect to specific issues, the relevant inquiry is whether the agency's interpretation of the statutory provisions is permissible. Chevron U. S. A., Inc. v. NRDC, Inc., 467 U. S. 837, 865 ( 1984). Accordingly, EPA is exercising its discretion to develop reasonable alternatives to determine NSR applicability that are consistent with the statutory provisions and Congressional intent underlying the NSR requirements. We believe that the PAL regulations adopted today represent a permissible construction of the Act. 2. Are PALs consistent with the concept of `` contemporaneity''? In the 1998 NOA, we solicited comment on whether and how a program that recognizes PALs as an alternate method for determining NSR applicability should address a particular legal concern: the need to have some `` contemporaneity'' between an emissions increase and any decrease relied upon to net the increase out of review. As we discussed in the 1998 notice, the current regulations specify that, to be creditable, emissions increases and decreases must have occurred within a `` contemporaneous'' period. Our current regulations governing SIP­ approved programs do not specify a precise time frame. However, the Federal PSD rules generally only credit those emissions increases and decreases that occur within the 5 years preceding a given change. We established these regulatory requirements after the court's decision in Alabama Power, in which the court interpreted the Act as requiring plantwide bubbling in the PSD program, but stated that `` any offset changes claimed by industry must be substantially contemporaneous.'' 636 F. 2d 402. In the 1998 notice, we sought comment on whether a PAL program that never required PALs to be periodically updated to reflect current emissions at the source would allow sources to make emissions reductions and hold them indefinitely, only to use them several decades later to offset new increases, and whether such a system would contravene the contemporaneity principle the court announced. Many commenters, including several regulatory agencies, maintain that PALs are consistent with the NSR requirements under the Act. These commenters contend that the court gave EPA the discretion to define contemporaneity. See 636 F. 2d 402 (`` The Agency has discretion, within reason, to define which changes are substantially contemporaneous.''). Others contend that changes made under a PAL are not subject to the Alabama Power `` contemporaneity'' requirement because a change made under the PAL is either excluded from NSR or alternatively does not exceed the applicable NSR significance threshold. Therefore, they contend that netting is not implicated by such changes. On the other hand, a few commenters assert that PALs conflict with the purpose of the Act. We believe that the concept of contemporaneity, as articulated in Alabama Power and as set forth in the regulations governing the major NSR program, does not apply to PALs. The PAL program differs in certain important respects from our current regulations and from the 1978 regulations at issue in Alabama Power. The Alabama Power court was not presented with the PAL approach for determining whether there was an increase in emissions and did not consider whether the principles it set forth in its opinion would apply to such an approach. Under the 1978 PSD regulations ( 43 FR 26380), a source was subject to BACT review only if `` no net increase in emissions of an applicable pollutant would occur at the source, taking into account all emissions increases and decreases at the source which would accompany the modification.'' 43 FR 26385. The test for whether a `` major modification'' had occurred required the source to sum all accumulated increases in potential emissions that had occurred at the source since issuance of the regulations, or since issuance of the last construction permit, whichever was more recent. Reductions achieved elsewhere in the source could not be taken into account. In Alabama Power, the D. C. Circuit held that EPA was correct in excluding from BACT review any changes that did not result in a net increase of a pollutant. 636 F. 2d 401. It concluded, however, that EPA had incorrectly excluded contemporaneous decreases from the calculation of whether a `` major modification'' had occurred. Id. at 402 03. The current regulations take contemporaneous decreases into account for all PSD review purposes. Under the current regulations, you look initially at the emissions unit undergoing the change and determine whether there will be a significant increase at that unit. If there is no significant increase at the unit, the inquiry ends there. While we continue to believe that this is a permissible approach, one drawback to this approach is that it allows a series of small, unrelated emissions increases to occur, which is discussed elsewhere in this preamble. If there will be a significant increase at the unit, then you expand the inquiry to other units at the source. You take into account contemporaneous increases and VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80216 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 31 Eastern Research Group Inc. report on `` Business Cycles in Major Emitting Source Industries'' dated September 25, 1997. decreases at the source in determining whether there will be an increase for the source as a whole. Thus, you must calculate increases and decreases at individual units in order to arrive at a net figure for the entire source. In contrast, under today's PAL regulations, the inquiry begins and ends with the source. Your PAL represents source­ wide baseline actual emissions. As such, it is the reference point for calculating increases in baseline actual emissions. If your source's emissions will equal or exceed the PAL, then there will be an emissions increase at your source. There is no need to calculate increases and decreases at individual units. Today's PAL regulations constitute a reasonable, though not the only, approach to determining whether there is an emissions increase at your source. While we believe that the principle of contemporaneity continues to be important for purposes of major NSR netting calculations, we do not believe that it is a necessary concept for purposes of PALs. This is because if your source has a PAL, you have accepted a different means of calculating an emissions increase for the PAL pollutant. The only relevant question is whether your source has reached or exceeded the PAL level. Even though PALs are a new approach, they do not alter the fundamental question, which is whether there will be an increase in emissions from your source. For actuals PALs, we consider whether there will be an increase in baseline actual emissions. Because the PAL serves as the baseline for measuring an increase, we have taken steps to ensure that the PAL is reasonably representative of baseline actual emissions. In taking these steps, we have also ensured that actuals PALs as finalized today are consistent with the concept of contemporaneity, to the extent such a concept has any application in this context. One way of viewing a PAL is to focus on the increases and decreases at individual emissions units that, taken together, result in the net emissions from your source as a whole. As long as the decreases that have occurred during the term of the PAL are sufficient to offset any increase that occurs, total emissions for your source will remain below the PAL, and your source will not experience a `` significant net emissions increase.'' Viewed from this perspective, the term of the PAL constitutes the `` contemporaneous'' period. We believe that 10 years is a reasonable contemporaneous period for PALs for the following two reasons. First, we believe that a 10­ year period is practical and reasonable both for you and for the reviewing authority. While a logical stopping point may seem to be 5 years in line with the title V permit period, setting a PAL can be a complex and time consuming process, so a 5­ year period would be too short and hence not beneficial either to you or to the reviewing authority. Second, a study conducted by Eastern Research Group, Inc. 31 supported a 10­ year look back to ensure that the normal business cycle would be captured generally for any industry. In addition, we believe that the PAL renewal provisions ensure that each 10­ year term represents a distinct `` contemporaneous'' period. The renewal process is designed to prevent decreases that occurred outside of the current 10­ year PAL term from being used to offset increases during that term. At renewal, the reviewing authority must consider whether decreases have occurred at your source because of compliance with newly applicable requirements. Thus, for example, if the compliance date for a new RACT requirement occurred during the initial term of the PAL, and the reviewing authority has not already adjusted the PAL downward to account for that requirement, it must do so at renewal. More generally, the reviewing authority is required to evaluate baseline actual emissions and provide a written rationale for public comment if it determines that an adjustment to the PAL is warranted. As part of this process, the reviewing authority must adjust the PAL downward if your source's current PTE is below the PAL level. We believe that this adjustment is important for air quality planning purposes. Additionally, the reviewing authority may renew the PAL at the same level if your source's baseline actual emissions plus the significant level are equal to or greater than 80 percent of the PAL level without consideration of other factors. We believe that this level is reasonably representative of the source's baseline actual emissions. If your source's baseline actual emissions plus the significant level are less than 80 percent of the PAL level, the reviewing authority may set the PAL at a level that it determines to be more representative of the source's baseline actual emissions, or that it determines to be appropriate considering air quality needs, advances in control technology, anticipated economic growth in the area, desire to reward or encourage the source's voluntary emissions reductions, or other factors as specifically identified by the reviewing authority in its written rationale. We recognize that fluctuations in baseline actual emissions will occur at most sources as part of the normal business cycle. We also recognize that requiring the reviewing authority to adjust the PAL downward if your source's baseline actual emissions do not equal 100 percent of the PAL level could create an incentive for you to maximize your baseline actual emissions. In addition, most sources do not emit at a level just below the maximum allowable level but rather build in a margin to prevent accidental exceedances. However, the PAL should be reasonably representative of baseline actual emissions so that it can continue to serve as the baseline for calculating an emissions increase. We have balanced these competing concerns in adopting a requirement, subject to the provisions noted below, to provide discretion to the reviewing authority to adjust the PAL level if baseline actual emissions plus the significant level do not equal at least 80 percent of the PAL level. To maintain flexibility, today's actuals PAL regulations allow the reviewing authority to determine representativeness on a case­ by­ case basis. If you believe that the new PAL level that the reviewing authority proposes for your source is not representative of your source's baseline actual emissions, you may propose a different level. In addition, any person may propose a different level as being more representative of your source's baseline actual emissions. The reviewing authority may approve a higher or lower level if it determines that it is reasonably representative of your source's baseline actual emissions. For example, assume that your source was designed to burn either fuel oil or natural gas, and that your source's permit allowed the use of either fuel. During the initial term of the PAL, you used only natural gas at the source and your source­ wide emissions were consistently less than 80 percent of the PAL level. However, due to shifting market conditions, you expected to use fuel oil for a period beginning after PAL renewal. Under these circumstances, the reviewing authority could reasonably determine that a higher level would be more representative of your source's baseline actual emissions. Similarly, your source might be designed to manufacture several different products, and your permit might allow you to switch from one product to another. During the initial term of the PAL, you might produce a VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80217 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations product associated with low emissions, resulting in source­ wide emissions that were consistently less than 80 percent of the PAL level. However, you might be planning to produce a product that would cause the source to emit at a higher level following PAL renewal. This is another example of a circumstance in which the reviewing authority could reasonably determine that a higher level was more representative of your source's baseline actual emissions. In addition, for SIP planning purposes, the reviewing authority may adjust the PAL level at its discretion based on air quality needs, advances in control technology, anticipated economic growth in the area, or other relevant factors. Because of the safeguards described above, we believe that the actuals PAL program as finalized today ensures that the PAL will serve as an appropriate baseline for determining whether there is a significant net `` increase'' in overall emissions from the source, and thus whether the source is undergoing a `` modification.'' Moreover, we believe that a PAL approach satisfies Congressional intent to only apply the NSR permit process when industrial changes cause significant net emissions increases to an area and not when changes in plant operations result in no emissions increase from the major stationary source. See Alabama Power, 636 F. 2d 401. 3. Are PALs Permissible in Serious, Severe, and Extreme Ozone Nonattainment Areas? In our 1996 proposal, we requested comment on whether PALs could be implemented in serious and severe ozone nonattainment areas in a manner that was consistent with section 182( c)( 6) of the Act. Section 182( c)( 6) contains special provisions for major stationary sources that increase VOC emissions in serious or severe ozone nonattainment areas as a result of a physical change or a change in the method of operation. In some of these areas, the provisions also apply if you increase NOX emissions. In general, these special provisions change the significant level for VOC emissions in serious and severe nonattainment areas from 40 tpy to greater than 25 tpy. They also specify that you must go through a major NSR permitting review if you have a net emissions increase in the aggregate of more than 25 tpy over a period of 5 years. In addition, we requested comment on whether PALs could be implemented in extreme ozone nonattainment areas. Section 182( e)( 2), which applies in such areas, provides that any physical change or change in the method of operation at the source that results in `` any increase'' from any discrete operation, unit, or other pollutant­ emitting activity at the source, generally must be considered a modification subject to major NSR permit requirements, regardless of any decreases elsewhere at the source. A few industry commenters believe that the `` accumulation'' provisions of CAA section 182( c)( 6) should make no difference to the acceptability of a PAL in `` serious'' and `` severe'' ozone nonattainment areas. They contend that we have correctly concluded that CAA section 182( c)( 6) only applies when net emissions at the source as a whole increase above the 25 ton level. Accordingly, any change that triggered CAA section 182( c)( 6) would already have breached the PAL limits. On the other hand, an environmental commenter states that a PAL in a serious, severe, or extreme ozone nonattainment area could be problematic because it could allow for an increase at an emissions unit in situations where source­ wide emissions would not exceed the PAL. We agree with commenters who believe that the PAL approach does not conflict with the provisions of CAA section 182( c)( 6). We do not interpret section 182( c)( 6) to be a limitation on our ability to authorize PALs in serious and severe nonattainment areas. This section directs that when there is an increase meeting certain criteria, it may not be considered de minimis, but it does not specify the methodology by which an emissions increase must be calculated. Accordingly, we exercise our discretion in establishing the methodology, and we are doing so today by having the PAL serve as the actuals emissions baseline against which future emissions increases are measured. Chevron U. S. A., Inc. v. NRDC, Inc., 467 U. S. 837, 865 ( 1984). If your source's emissions equal or exceed the PAL, it will trigger NSR, whereas maintaining plant emissions below the PAL ensures that there is no emissions increase. We believe that our interpretation reasonably implements the statutory purpose of the section, given that PAL sources agree to be subject to a plantwide cap that serves as the reference point for determining whether there has been an increase and given that the appropriateness of the PAL level is reviewed at 10­ year intervals. Actuals PALs effectively prevent the uncontrolled, unrelated, small, serial emissions increases section 182( c)( 6) is designed to address. Because CAA section 182( e)( 2) clearly requires consideration of increases at individual emissions units in extreme ozone nonattainment areas, PALs are not allowed in such areas, since any increase in emissions from any unit in those areas constitutes a modification. 4. Is It Appropriate for a PAL to Be Based on Actual Emissions? In 1996, we proposed and sought comment on a broad range of alternative approaches for setting PAL emission limitations, including a PAL based on the following: ( 1) Actual emissions as defined under the current and then proposed regulations at § 51.166( b)( 21)( ii); ( 2) actual emissions with the addition of an operating margin greater than the applicable significance rate; ( 3) for new stationary sources, limits established pursuant to a review of the entire facility under PSD; and ( 4) for nonattainment pollutants ( in nonattainment areas), any emissions level completely offset and relied upon in an EPA­ approved State attainment demonstration plan. 61 FR 38250, 38256 ( July 23, 1996). We received general support for the PAL concept and for the different approaches we proposed. Some comments express support for a PAL approach based on allowable emissions, and others indicate support for a PAL approach based on actual emissions. Some commenters generally believe that an allowables approach is necessary to ensure increased operating flexibility and capacity utilization. They also assert that an allowables approach would protect air quality management goals, because they claim that air quality planning historically has been based on permitted emissions levels. Other commenters believe that an actuals approach is preferable because it facilitates more accurate air quality planning and provides a more reliable basis for determining the availability of offsets. We have concluded that a major stationary source's compliance with an actuals­ based PAL system is a permissible means of assuring that a major stationary source does not have a significant emissions increase. We also conclude that this approach can be implemented in a manner that is consistent with the Act. Thus, in today's action, we are adopting regulations that authorize States to issue actuals PALs. We plan to address allowables PALs in an upcoming rulemaking. 5. How Should Actual Emissions Be Determined in Setting the PAL Level? In the 1996 proposal, we requested comment on whether the definition of VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80218 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations actual emissions for the purpose of determining the level of the PAL should be based on the definition of actual emissions in the current major NSR regulations, or whether it should be based on the proposed revisions to the actual emissions definition contained in that 1996 proposal. The fundamental difference between these two approaches is that the current NSR regulations would only allow you to look back 5 years to determine the actual emissions ( the sum of actual emissions for all emissions units at your major stationary source). The 1996 proposed changes to this definition would allow you to look back 10 years to determine the actual emissions. Several commenters prefer a 10­ year baseline period for setting PALs based on actual emissions. A few commenters prefer a 5­ year baseline period. One commenter advocates use of an actual emissions level that is initially based on the previous 2 years but that would decline over time. In a separate section of today's final rules, we are finalizing changes to our definition of baseline actual emissions. Among other changes to the definition, you will be allowed to look back for a period of 10 years to establish the baseline actual emissions ( except for EUSGUs). For program consistency and ease of implementation, we believe that the procedure for determining the baseline actual emissions for establishing your PAL should be the same as the baseline actual emissions that you will be required to use under the other major NSR program requirements. Accordingly, we are adopting an approach for establishing your actuals PAL that is consistent with how the baseline actual emissions are determined for an emissions unit under other requirements of the major NSR program. We are, however, including a special allowance for emissions units that have operated for less than 2 years. Under such circumstances, the emissions unit has not operated long enough to establish a reliable baseline actual emissions calculation. Therefore, today's rule allows your reviewing authority to consider the allowable emissions of such emissions units when establishing or renewing the PAL. The baseline actual emissions of such emissions units would be adjusted to reflect a more representative level of baseline actual emissions at the time of the next PAL renewal. 6. Are Emissions From Shut Down or Dismantled Units Excluded From a PAL? We proposed several options to adjust PAL levels to account for emissions units that are shut down or dismantled before setting a PAL. Several commenters support adjusting the PAL level for permanently shut down or dismantled units. A few commenters maintain that PAL adjustments are only appropriate for long­ term shutdowns. Other commenters oppose allowing adjustments for shutdowns. They indicate that it would be difficult to implement and that it could penalize sources that were meeting environmental goals. We agree with commenters that the baseline actual emissions used in establishing the PAL should exclude emissions from units that are permanently shut down or dismantled after the 24­ month period selected for establishment of baseline emissions. We believe that excluding such emissions from your PAL level is appropriate for air quality planning purposes. Moreover, the environment has already seen the benefit of the reduced emissions. We also do not agree with those commenters who advocate adjusting the PAL only for long­ term shutdowns, because it is too difficult to define and enforce `` long­ term.'' As described in section IV. C. 2 of this preamble, the PAL level includes baseline actual emissions from each existing emissions unit and new emissions unit at the source. For any emissions unit that has been permanently shut down since the 24­ month period, its emissions should not be included in calculating the PAL level. Conversely, for an emissions unit that began construction after the 24­ month period, the emissions ( equal to the potential emissions of that emissions unit) must be included in setting the PAL level. One shutdown option we considered, but did not adopt, is to exclude emissions from PALs only for units that did not operate at all during the 10­ year life of the PAL. Under this option, the PAL would not be adjusted downward if you utilized those emissions from the shut down or dismantled units elsewhere at your source during the period since the shutdown ( for example, by adding new emissions units or capacity, or by increasing capacity utilization at existing emissions units). As we indicated in our proposal, we believe it would be too difficult to determine whether you have actually relied on these emissions decreases in undertaking other activities at your source. We did not receive any comments suggesting ways to overcome this identified problem. 7. Does a PAL Include a Reasonable Operating Margin? In the July 23, 1996 action, we proposed that a PAL for existing sources be based on source­ wide actual emissions, including a reasonable operating margin less than the applicable significant emissions rate. We also requested comment on several other options for establishing a PAL. Several commenters support the option of basing the PAL on source­ wide actual emissions plus a reasonable operating margin less than the applicable significance amount. Other commenters believe an operating margin tied to significant levels would be too restrictive. Today we are finalizing an option that allows you to include, when setting the initial PAL, an amount that corresponds to the significant level for modifications of the PAL pollutant as specified in the major NSR rules [ for example, in the PSD regulations at § 52.21( b)( 23)( i)], or as specified in the CAA, whichever is lower. For example, for SO2 PALs you may add to the PAL baseline level the 40 tpy significant level; for CO PALs you may add 100 tpy to the PAL baseline level. Also, for serious and severe ozone nonattainment areas the VOC significant level added to the PAL level is 25 tpy. For major sources of NOX located in serious and severe ozone nonattainment areas, where NOX is regulated as an ozone precursor, you may add to the NOX PAL baseline the NOX significant level of 25 tpy, and not the 40 tpy NOX significant level specified under PSD. In extreme ozone nonattainment areas, PALs are not allowed since any increase in emissions in these areas constitutes a modification. While other approaches to providing a reasonable operating margin may be consistent with the CAA, we believe that the approach we are adopting today comports most closely with existing regulatory provisions for major NSR applicability. That is, it assures that the environment sees no significant increases in emissions compared to the baseline actual emissions existing before the PAL is established. In our 1998 NOA, we also requested comment on whether we should provide for an operating margin when renewing a PAL. We proposed four possible approaches for maintaining a reasonable operating margin, including an option that would include in the adjusted PAL level an operating cushion equal to 20 percent of the current PAL. In a separate section of the NOA, we also requested VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 17: 13 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80219 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations comment on how PALs should be adjusted for emissions units that have installed good emissions controls. Many commenters indicate that we must provide for a reasonable operating margin. However, we generally received unfavorable comments on all the approaches we suggested. Several commenters believe that our suggested approaches do not provide an adequate operating margin. In responding to our request for comment on how to adjust PALs for emissions units that have installed good emissions controls, many commenters indicate that it would be inappropriate for EPA to `` confiscate'' such emissions reductions. Such an approach would encourage sources to pollute to maintain higher baseline emissions, and would penalize those sources who would voluntarily reduce emissions. At least one commenter maintains that both you and the environment should benefit from these reductions, and thus, you should be allowed to retain a portion of your voluntary emissions reductions. We agree with some commenters that mandating an adjustment at renewal, based solely on current operations and emissions levels, would discourage the voluntary emissions reductions the PAL is specifically designed to encourage. We agree with commenters that both you and the environment should benefit from your commitment to comply with a PAL. Should you engage in voluntary emissions reductions, we believe you should be able to retain the accompanying flexibility that encouraged you to make these reductions. At the time of renewal, it may be very difficult for a reviewing authority to distinguish the reason for a decrease in your baseline actual emissions level. It could be because you have aggressively applied emissions controls, or because of a decrease in utilization, a loss of capacity, a desire to maintain a compliance margin, or any of a number of other reasons. Accordingly, we believe that it would be difficult to advise a reviewing authority to only retain a certain percentage of your emissions reductions that resulted from applying emissions controls. Therefore, for simplicity, and for what we believe to be a reasonable policy position to encourage you to voluntarily reduce emissions without a fear of a complete loss of operational flexibility, we are allowing your reviewing authority discretion to renew the PAL at an appropriate level. Hence, your reviewing authority may renew the PAL at the same level without consideration of other factors, if the baseline actual emissions plus the significant level is equal to or greater than 80 percent of the PAL level. If not, today's rules also allow your reviewing authority to renew the PAL at a different level if it determines that level is more representative of baseline actual emissions. See section II. D. 9, `` Should we require PALs to be adjusted at the time of PAL renewal,'' for more information on our rationale for allowing this discretion. 8. Are PALs Required to Expire? In our 1998 NOA, we announced that we were considering, and requested comment on, an approach that would require PALs to expire after 10 years unless you choose to renew the PAL. We proposed that the PAL term would be 10 years. Several commenters agree with our suggested time frame of 10 years for the term of a PAL. Others support a 5­ year period, which would fit with the title V permit review period. Some commenters support a period longer than 10 years. Today, we are finalizing rules that require a PAL to be effective for a period of 10 years. We believe that a fixed­ term PAL provides you with an appropriate time of regulatory certainty and allows a sufficient period of time for planning long­ term capital improvements. We also agree with those commenters who think it is beneficial to align the PAL renewal process with the title V permitting process for your major stationary source. Similar to a PAL permit process, the title V permit process provides the public with a comprehensive review of your source. We believe that aligning the PAL permit with the title V process will allow you and your reviewing authority to consolidate the administrative process for the two permitting actions. It also provides the public with a better understanding of your emissions characteristics relative to the surrounding community. However, we do not believe that requiring PALS to be reviewed every 5 years, consistent with the title V renewal period, provides industry with a sufficient period of regulatory certainty. We also believe that while the overall administrative burden for you and the reviewing authority is reduced if you are complying with a PAL, the establishment of a PAL requires an initial commitment of substantial resources. Given this initial resource investment, we do not believe that a 5­ year fixed term for a PAL provides you or your reviewing authority with an adequate incentive to participate in the PAL system. Thus, in an effort to balance the need for regulatory certainty, the administrative burden, and a desire to align the PAL renewal with the title V permit renewal, we believe a fixed term of 10 years, the equivalent of two title V effective periods ( 10 years), is most appropriate. You may elect to renew your PAL after 10 years, for a subsequent 10­ year period, rather than allow the PAL to expire. In order to align the PAL renewal process with the title V permitting process, we suggest that you request that the reviewing authorities renew title V permits concurrent with issuance of the initial PAL permit, regardless of how many years are actually left on your title V permit. 9. Are PALs Required To Be Adjusted at the Time of PAL Renewal? In 1996, we requested comment on `` why, how, and when a PAL should be lowered or increased without being subject to major NSR.'' In 1998, we announced that we were considering an option that required PALs to be renewed to reflect new current baseline actual emissions. We were also considering requiring a PAL to be adjusted for unused capacity. Under this approach, we would adjust a PAL downward when an emissions unit operates below the capacity level that was used to establish the PAL. In our 1998 NOA, we expressed three reasons why it might be appropriate to require PALs to be periodically adjusted. First, we expressed concern that the allowable­ toallowable applicability system of the PAL would allow you to indefinitely retain the right to pollute at an historical level of actual emissions. Second, we were concerned that a PAL may allow you to retain unused emissions credits that would otherwise be available for economic growth in the area. And third, we were concerned that a PAL may interfere with a State's ability to plan for attainment if your actual emissions to the atmosphere are lower during a SIP planning year than in a subsequent year. Some commenters generally oppose any periodic reviewing or adjustment of a PAL. They believe that such an approach would limit operational flexibility, discourage efficiency improvements, and create disincentives for voluntary reductions. However, other commenters generally support an approach that would require a periodic adjustment to PALs. We continue to have concerns with an approach that would allow a PAL to be renewed without any evaluation of the appropriateness of the current PAL level. We believe such an approach would be contrary to the Act, and contrary to the court's decision in WEPCO v. Reilly, 893 F. 2d 901, 908 ( 7th Circ. 1990). In WEPCO, the court VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80220 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations determined that one statutory purpose of the NSR requirements is `` to stimulate the advancement of pollution control technology,'' and that `` allowing increased production ( and pollution) through the extensive replacement of deteriorated generating system'' without triggering NSR review would create `` vistas of indefinite immunity from the provisions of * * * PSD.'' We believe today's rules avoid this inappropriate outcome, by requiring the reviewing authority to evaluate your baseline actual emissions at the time of PAL permit renewal. Although we believe that a periodic review of the level of the PAL may be necessary, and that this may result in an adjustment in your PAL to a level that is representative of your baseline actual emissions, we do not believe that we should mandate an adjustment to the PAL based on only one prescribed methodology. Such an approach could lead to inappropriate results, as discussed below. Instead, we believe that our concerns can be appropriately addressed by providing the States the authority to adjust the PAL based on what is representative of your baseline actual emissions. We believe that some discretion in determining what is representative of actual emissions is appropriate, based in part on our experience with the pilot projects previously mentioned. In one instance, a participant voluntarily agreed to reduce its actual emissions by 54 percent in exchange for obtaining a source­ wide emissions cap. After agreeing to this emissions reduction, the participant further reduced emissions by increasing capture efficiency and incorporating pollution prevention strategies into its operations. Unexpectedly, the participant also suffered an unusual economic downturn that caused a decrease in the rate of production and a corresponding decrease in actual emissions. At the time of renewal of the source­ wide emissions cap, the participant's actual emissions were 10 percent of its actual emissions before committing to the emissions cap. The participant chose not to renew its emissions caps, because renewal required an automatic adjustment to its current actual emissions level. Clearly, such a result contravenes the mutual benefits operating under a PAL provides, and discourages you from undertaking voluntary reductions. Accordingly, although today's final rules require the reviewing authority to consider the need for adjusting the PAL when your current baseline actual emissions plus the significant level are less than 80 percent of your PAL level, it also provides the reviewing authority discretion to consider a variety of factors in determining whether the PAL should be adjusted. We are also providing your reviewing authority discretion to take into account measures necessary to prevent a violation of a NAAQS or PSD increment, and to prevent an adverse impact on an AQRV in a Federal Class I area. For example, although we remain concerned that a PAL may allow you to retain unused emissions credits that would otherwise be available for economic growth in your area, we believe that managing an area's economic growth is the primary responsibility of the State. As such, the State, through your reviewing authority, should have discretion to manage the growth increment for your area. If your State wishes to encourage economic growth, then it may, at its discretion, reduce your PAL for that reason. Conversely, it may decide that encouraging economic growth is not a priority for the area and concurrently find no other concerns that warrant a downward adjustment in your PAL. After further reflection, we also believe that it is inappropriate for us to mandate in all cases a prescribed methodology for adjusting PALs based on our concern that a PAL system may interfere with a State's ability to plan for attainment. We believe that the concern regarding planning for attainment is not unique to a PAL system. Most importantly, nothing in this rule reduces the State's discretion in developing plans to attain and maintain NAAQS. Under our major NSR applicability system, you could increase your emissions over your historical actual emissions by increasing utilization or hours of operation. If this occurs, there may be a discrepancy between the amount the State carries in the emissions inventory and the amount that you emit to the atmosphere. States should be cognizant of these issues and take appropriate measures in their SIP planning procedures to assure that emissions from any major stationary source, including a PAL participant, are properly characterized in the emissions inventory. And finally, we agree with industry commenters that if we were to mandate an adjustment because your baseline actual emissions did not equal 100 percent of the PAL level, it would encourage you to increase production and emissions, and such an outcome would be counterproductive. We have accordingly provided your reviewing authority the ability to add a reasonable operating margin to your baseline actual emissions at the time of renewal. This operating margin was discussed previously in section II. D. 7 above ` ` Should a PAL include a reasonable operating margin?'' 10. Are Certain New Emissions Units That Are Added Under a PAL Required To Meet Some Level of Emissions Control? We solicited comments on whether we should require you to control emissions from new emissions units that are added under an established PAL. Several commenters believe that BACT or LAER should not be required for these emissions units. A few commenters favor adding a requirement that BACT or LAER be required on new emissions units. We believe that it is unnecessary to mandate a specific control level on new emissions units that you add under an established PAL. After reviewing the performance of a limited number of facilities that are participating in PAL pilot projects, we have concluded that these facilities' desire to maintain a large degree of operational flexibility under a PAL system has encouraged them to voluntarily install state­ of­ theart controls on new emissions units. ( See footnote 26 regarding our study, `` Evaluation of the Implementation Experience with Innovative Air Permits.'') We anticipate similar results as we extend the PAL program more broadly. Alternatively, we believe that you will add emissions controls to existing emissions units if this is a more cost effective approach to controlling your emissions. This is precisely the type of flexibility you should have for managing your total source­ wide emissions under a PAL system. Furthermore, this cost effective approach was contemplated and supported by the statements of the court in Alabama Power. The court concluded that you should be allowed to add new emissions units if the new emissions from this unit could be `` set­ off against decreases'' from other emissions units at the major stationary source. Accordingly, we do not believe that it is necessary to mandate the installation of emissions controls on new emissions units if you are able to continue to comply with your PAL even after installing the new emissions unit. If our projections on this matter prove to be incorrect in practice, we will consider revising our regulations in the future to require a specific control level on new and/ or existing emissions units. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80221 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 11. Under What Circumstances Are You Allowed To Increase Your PAL and How Are the Major NSR Requirements Applied To That Increase? We proposed that whenever a PAL is increased due to the addition of a new unit, or due to a physical or operational change to an existing emissions unit, the units associated with the increase would be reviewed for current BACT or current LAER, air quality impacts modeling, and emissions offsets, if applicable. We noted that it may be difficult for a reviewing authority to determine which emissions units are associated with a physical change or change in method of operation when the emissions increase is the result of a source­ wide production increase. We requested comment on five possible ways to apply the major NSR requirements when emissions increases are not directly associated with a particular change. Commenters offered various suggestions for addressing emissions increases above the PAL. Several commenters believe that major NSR should only be applied to the emissions unit primarily responsible for the increase. Among the various commenters, there are a few supporters for each one of the options we proposed. In addition, one commenter suggests that we add de minimis increase levels; another suggests that we require offsets for each increase. Several industry commenters believe that we should not apply major NSR when an increase above the PAL is solely due to a production increase. One commenter believes all increases should be subject to BACT. After considering the comments received, we agree with the commenters who believe that major NSR should only be applied to the emissions units ( either new or modifications of existing units) primarily causing the increase. Accordingly, in the final regulations, we are confirming our proposed requirement that only those emissions units that are part of a PAL major modification would be subject to major NSR. As discussed earlier, we believe that a PAL provides you with an incentive to control existing and new emissions units to maximize your operational flexibility under your PAL. We also recognize that there may be valid economic reasons for requesting an upward adjustment in a PAL. We are, however, concerned that if there were no restrictions on your ability to request a PAL increase, you would not have an incentive to control emissions. Therefore, under today's final rules, before the reviewing authority may approve a mid­ term increase in your PAL, you must demonstrate that you are unable to maintain emissions below your current PAL even with a good faith effort to control emissions from existing emissions units. To make this demonstration, you must show that even if BACT equivalent control ( adjusted for a current BACT level of control unless the emissions units are currently subject to a BACT or LAER requirement that has been determined within the preceding 10 years, in which case the assumed control level shall be equal to the emissions unit's existing BACT or LAER control level) were to be applied to all of your significant and major emissions units, the resulting emissions level will exceed your current PAL when combined with the emissions from both your small emissions units and your new emissions unit's allowable emissions. 12. What Compliance Monitoring, Reporting, Recordkeeping, and Testing ( MRRT) Requirements Are Necessary to Ensure the Enforceability of PALs as a Practical Matter? The MRRT requirements for PALs are addressed below. Numerous commenters, generally State agencies and environmental groups, state that adequate monitoring, reporting, and recordkeeping requirements would be necessary to ensure that the PAL limits were enforceable. Some commenters hold that the monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting provisions would be too burdensome and restrictive. Some believe that PALs would not be viable because of these requirements. Several commenters request that we clarify the monitoring that is necessary to show compliance with a PAL, especially in relation to the CAM and title V programs. Several commenters prefer that the monitoring requirements be flexible and simple. These commenters urge us not to use CAM, require CEMS, or establish stringent protocols. A few commenters prefer that we not define what would be enforceable as a practical matter for PAL limits. Others insisted that the PAL limits must be federally enforceable. We believe that the PAL must assure that the source maintains emissions below the PAL level to assure that major NSR does not apply. Therefore, we agree with the commenters who stated that adequate data collection requirements through means such as monitoring, reporting, and recordkeeping requirements are necessary to ensure that the PAL limits are enforceable as a practical matter. In fact, we find that not only monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements, but also emissions testing requirements, for emissions units subject to a PAL differ from other MRRT in one important aspect: actual unit emissions must be measured to provide a 12­ month rolling total, and compared against a limit. Currently, many emissions units are required only to have MRRT suitable for initial or spot checks on emissions concentrations, not emissions quantification. Even emissions units whose MRRT meets the title V requirements in § § 70.6( a)( 3)( i)( B) or 70.6( c)( 1), including those imposed by part 64 ( the CAM rule), may need to be upgraded when those units are proposed to become subject to a PAL, because the approved title V MRRT may not be able to count emissions against a cap. While we believe you can obtain data for emissions quantification best through the use of CEMS or PEMS, in today's final rule we are allowing you to propose other types of emissions monitoring quantification systems, depending upon such factors as the size category of the emissions unit and its margin of compliance. 13. Is EPA Adopting an Approach That Allows Area­ Wide PALs? In 1996, we proposed an option that would allow a State to adopt an areawide PAL approach. Under such an approach, all major stationary sources within a given geographic area would have a PAL. Our 1996 proposal contained little detail on how this would be implemented. While a few commenters support area­ wide PALs, many more oppose them. State agency commenters generally believe they would need time to develop PALs consistent with the approaches provided in the final NSR rule, as well as to develop data management and compliance assurance approaches that would accommodate the PAL approach. Thus, adding the area­ wide PAL at the same time as the source­ specific PAL may create several administrative headaches. Industry commenters maintain that area­ wide PALs would ratchet down emissions and reduce flexibility. We agree with the many commenters who opposed an area­ wide PAL system, believing that the approach would be complex and resource and time intensive. We also perceived little interest in such an approach from the various stakeholders with whom we have met. Accordingly, we are not including any provisions in our final rules to implement an area­ wide PAL system. However, we are not precluding such a program either. If a State currently has or wants to pursue an VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80222 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations area­ wide PAL program, then it must demonstrate that its program is equivalent to or more stringent than our final rules. 14. When Should Modeling or Other Types of Ambient Impact Assessments Be Required for Changes Occurring Under a PAL? In our 1996 proposal, we requested comment on when modeling or other air quality impacts analysis is needed for changes occurring under a PAL to demonstrate protection of NAAQS, increments, and AQRVs. One environmental commenter recommends modeling or other types of ambient impacts assessment whenever a change in emissions occurred under the PAL. One commenter recommends that FLMs be consulted whenever changes under the PAL are proposed, to determine whether an impact analysis for adverse impact on AQRVs would be necessary. Several commenters recommend modeling whenever a significant change occurred, but also recommend that EPA define significant change and how the modeling would be conducted. A facility could report the modeled effects of a minor change after the change is made ( in a quarterly, semiannual or perhaps annual modeling summary), while more significant changes should be modeled prior to construction. The facility could be given a lot of responsibility in these cases and then held accountable ( that is, required to mitigate) should an air quality increment or NAAQS be exceeded. These commenters also recommend that the impacts evaluation should be conducted at the time the PAL is established and that the PAL should clearly define what flexibility the source is allowed without further review and the types of changes for which additional review will be required. Some commenters generally believe that the proposed regulatory language concerning changes to PALs for air quality reasons was too vague and broad, but only a few of these commenters directly oppose modeling for changes under the PAL. One commenter states that if many changes were to require ambient air quality analysis, the PAL approach would have little if any benefit. The commenter believes that sources ought to discuss up front with permit authorities which emissions shifts might have consequences that would later require additional modeling/ monitoring. If questions existed about certain emissions sources under a PAL, PALs could be approved with conditions assuring that certain post­ approval modeling analysis be submitted. In today's final rules, we believe we can rely on the reviewing authority's existing programs for addressing air quality issues. Certain changes in effective stack parameters under the PAL would generally be covered by the reviewing authority's minor NSR construction permit program. The reviewing authority would ordinarily request air quality modeling for any changes if it believes that the changes under the PAL may affect the NAAQS and PSD increments. V. Clean Units A. Introduction In today's final rulemaking, we are promulgating a new type of applicability test for emissions units that are designated as Clean Units. This new applicability test will measure whether an emissions increase occurs, based on whether the physical change or change in the method of operation affects the Clean Unit status of the unit. This new applicability test provides that when you meet emission limitations based on installing state­ of­ the­ art emissions control technologies ( add­ on control technology, pollution prevention techniques, or work practices) that are determined to be BACT or LAER, you may make any physical or operational changes to the Clean Unit without triggering major NSR, unless the change causes the need for a revision in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit adopted in conjunction with BACT, LAER, or Clean Unit determinations, or would alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT, LAER, or Clean Unit determination for a particular unit. Emissions units that have not been through major NSR may also qualify for the Clean Unit applicability test if you demonstrate that their emission limitations based on their emissions control technology ( that is, add­ on control technology, pollution prevention technique, or work practice) is comparable to BACT or LAER and you demonstrate that the allowable emissions will not cause or contribute to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. To be comparable to BACT/ LAER, the controls must meet the specific comparability test that we describe in section V. C. 3 of this preamble. That is, you must show that the air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) is comparable to BACT/ LAER in one of two ways: ( 1) By comparing your emissions unit's control level to BACT/ LAER determinations for other similar sources in the RACT/ BACT/ LAER Clearinghouse ( RBLC); or ( 2) by making a case­ by­ case demonstration that your emissions control is `` substantially as effective'' as BACT or LAER. The Clean Unit applicability test benefits the public and the environment by providing you with an incentive to install state­ of­ the­ art emissions controls, even if you would not otherwise be required to control emissions to this level. You will benefit from these final rules because they provide you with increased operational flexibility. Once you have installed state­ of­ the­ art emissions controls on an emissions unit and it is considered a Clean Unit, you may make changes to respond rapidly to market demands without having to obtain a preconstruction major NSR permit. Moreover, you and your reviewing authority will benefit from increased administrative efficiency. We believe that once you have installed state­ of­ theart emissions control, an additional major NSR review will generally not result in any additional emissions controls for a period of years after the original control technology determination is made. In such cases, the major NSR permitting requirements impose a paperwork burden with little to no additional environmental benefit. The Clean Unit applicability test eliminates this unnecessary administrative action. B. Summary of 1996 Clean Unit Proposal In the 1996 NSR Reform package, we proposed an innovative approach to NSR applicability called the Clean Unit Exclusion. The proposed Clean Unit Exclusion would allow you to modify qualifying emissions units without being subject to the NSR permitting process for a period of 10 years, as long as your maximum hourly emissions rates would not increase. We proposed that your pre­ change hourly potential emissions rate must be established at any time up to 6 months prior to the proposed activity or project. We proposed three methods by which an emissions unit could qualify for the Clean Unit Exclusion. One was that the emissions unit went through a major NSR action within the last 10 years and had an enforceable limit based on BACT or LAER. The second was if the emissions unit was permitted under a State or local agency minor NSR program within the last 10 years and the minor NSR control technology VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80223 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations requirements were comparable to BACT or LAER. As part of this second method, we proposed that State and local agencies would submit their minor NSR programs for certification so that caseby case determinations for emissions units permitted under a minor NSR program would not be necessary. The third method was a case­ by­ case determination that an emission limitation was comparable to BACT or LAER for that emissions unit. For these units, we proposed that the Clean Unit Exclusion would last for 5 years. We proposed that a determination that a limit was comparable to BACT or LAER could be based on one of two methods: ( 1) the average of the BACT or LAER for equivalent sources over a recent period of time ( such as 3 years); or ( 2) the unit's control level is within some percentage ( such as 5 or 10) of the most recent, or average of the most recent, BACT or LAER levels for equivalent or similar sources. In addition, we asked for public comment on whether Clean Unit status should apply to emissions units with limits based on MACT or RACT. Although we did not propose accompanying regulatory language, we suggested that reviewing authorities use the title V permitting process to designate Clean Units. C. Final Regulations for Clean Units 1. Summary of Final Action Today's rule provides that your emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit, and qualifies to use the Clean Unit applicability test, if it has gone through a major NSR permitting review and is complying with BACT or LAER. Conversely, if your emissions unit has not gone through a major NSR permitting review, you do not automatically qualify for Clean Unit status. These emissions units must first go through a SIP­ approved permitting process that includes a process for determining whether the emissions unit meets the criteria to be designated as a Clean Unit. This process must include public notice and opportunity for public comment. To obtain Clean Unit status and qualify for the Clean Unit applicability test using a SIP­ approved permitting process, you must pass a two­ part test: ( 1) The air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) must be comparable to BACT or LAER; and ( 2) you must demonstrate that the allowable emissions will not cause or contribute to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. You may make a showing that the air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) is comparable to BACT/ LAER in two ways: ( 1) By comparing your emissions unit's control level to BACT/ LAER determinations for similar sources in the RBLC; or ( 2) by making a case­ by­ case demonstration that your emissions control is `` substantially as effective'' as BACT or LAER. If your emissions unit automatically qualifies as a Clean Unit because it has been through major NSR permitting, you may use the Clean Unit applicability test for up to 10 years. Today's rules allow you to apply for Clean Unit status for control technologies you have installed in the past if you go through a SIP­ approved permitting program that authorizes Clean Units and you qualify as a Clean Unit. The Clean Unit effective period for emissions units that must go through a SIP­ approved permitting process to obtain Clean Unit status is consistent with the time frame for emissions units that automatically qualify as Clean Units. That is, you may only use the Clean Unit applicability test for a period of 10 years. If you meet the requirements that we describe in section V. C. 9 of this preamble, you may re­ qualify for Clean Unit status. Upon expiration of Clean Unit status, the Clean Unit applicability test no longer applies to changes at the emissions unit. It is worth noting that in 1996, we proposed the provisions for Clean Units as a `` Clean Unit Exclusion,'' although we discussed the provisions as a new applicability test. We received criticism from at least one commenter that our characterization of the test as an exclusion was inappropriate. We agree with this commenter, and have thus renamed the test as the Clean Unit applicability test. We believe that this title more appropriately reflects that the test is not whether you are excluded from review under major NSR, but whether using a more appropriate emissions test you trigger major NSR review. 2. Is Clean Unit Status Available in Both Attainment and Nonattainment Areas? You may obtain Clean Unit status regardless of whether you are located in an attainment area or in a nonattainment area. Our proposed Clean Unit provisions were unclear on how emissions offsets and other nonattainment area requirements are affected by Clean Unit status. We want to clarify this issue. For sources in nonattainment areas which went through major NSR permitting while the area was nonattainment or which have qualified for Clean Unit status showing they are comparable to LAER, the permitted emissions level for the Clean Unit must have been offset. The emissions reductions resulting from installation of the control technology that is the basis of an emissions unit's status as a Clean Unit may not be used as offsets; however, emissions reductions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit may be used as offsets if they are surplus, quantifiable, permanent, and federally enforceable. Furthermore, for emissions units that are designated as Clean Units and that are located in nonattainment areas, RACT and any other requirements for nonattainment area sources under the SIP will still apply. The only exception to this is that the specific major NSR requirements related to calculating emissions increases from a physical change or change in the method of operation for all other existing sources that we describe in this preamble and codify in today's rules are not applicable to Clean Units, because the Clean Units are subject to an alternative major NSR applicability requirement for calculating emissions increases when changes are made. As we discuss in detail in section V. C. 3 of this preamble, the `` substantially as effective'' test for sources in nonattainment areas must consider only LAER determinations, except that emissions units in nonattainment areas that went through major NSR permitting while the area was designated an attainment area for that regulated NSR pollutant, and that received a permit based on a qualifying air pollution control technology, automatically qualify as Clean Units. If your emissions unit received Clean Unit status while the unit was located in an attainment area and the area's attainment status subsequently changes to nonattainment, your emissions unit retains Clean Unit status until expiration. However, to re­ qualify as a Clean Unit ( see section V. C. 9), the unit will have to meet the requirements that apply in nonattainment areas. 3. How Do You Qualify As A Clean Unit? Any emissions unit permitted through major NSR automatically qualifies as a Clean Unit, provided the BACT/ LAER determination results in some degree of emissions control. ( We discuss the specific requirements for qualifying controls in section V. C. 4 of this preamble.) These units already meet both the control technology and air quality criteria of the CAA and the NSR VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80224 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations regulations. We believe that the emission limitations ( based on the BACT/ LAER determination) and other permit terms and conditions ( such as any limits on hours of operation, raw materials, etc., that were used to determine BACT/ LAER) are protective of air quality. Although emissions units that have been through major NSR automatically qualify for Clean Unit status, there are specific procedures for establishing and maintaining Clean Unit status. We discuss these procedures in detail in sections V. C. 6 through 9 of this preamble. Your emissions units that have not gone through a major NSR permitting action that resulted in a requirement to comply with BACT or LAER may qualify for Clean Unit status if they are permitted under a SIP­ approved permitting program that provides for public notice of the proposed determination and opportunity for public comment. You must pass a twopart test to obtain Clean Unit status: ( 1) The air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) must be comparable to BACT or LAER; and ( 2) the allowable emissions will not cause or contribute to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. You may show that the air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) is comparable to BACT/ LAER in one of two ways: ( 1) By comparing your emissions unit's control level to BACT/ LAER determinations for other similar sources in the RBLC; or ( 2) by making a case­ by­ case demonstration that your emissions control is `` substantially as effective'' as BACT or LAER. To make a demonstration using the first methodology in a nonattainment area, you must compare your control technology to the best­ performing 5 similar sources in the RBLC for which LAER has been determined within the past 5 years. If the emission limitation that is achieved by your control technology is at least as stringent as any one of the 5 best­ performing units, and the emissions unit also passes the air quality test, then the reviewing authority shall presume that it qualifies as a Clean Unit. In attainment areas, you must compare your control technology to all BACT and LAER decisions that have been entered into the RBLC in the past 5 years, and for which it is technically feasible to apply the BACT or LAER control to your emissions unit type. If your control technology achieves a level of control that is equal to or better than the average of these determinations, and the emissions unit also passes the air quality test, then the reviewing authority shall presume that your emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit. After you have submitted your demonstration, the reviewing authority will also consider other BACT/ LAER determinations that are not included in the RBLC to determine whether the proposed emissions rate is comparable to BACT/ LAER, and incorporate this information into its determination as appropriate. In addition, the public will have an opportunity to review and comment on the reviewing authority's decision to designate an emissions unit as a Clean Unit. This approach ensures that you are meeting an emissions level comparable to that of BACT or LAER, while providing you flexibility to use the controls that are best suited to your processes. We are providing this first methodology as a streamlined methodology for identifying Clean Units. Any unit that meets these qualifications shall be presumed to be a Clean Unit. Conversely, the opposite is not true. The reviewing authority shall not presume that a unit that does not meet the test is not a Clean Unit. The quality and number of determinations in the RBLC vary by different type of sources. The RBLC may not always identify all the types of control technology strategies that should qualify an emissions unit as a Clean Unit, or it may not provide a representative sample for making an appropriate determination. Therefore, even if you are unable to demonstrate that your emissions unit is a Clean Unit using this methodology, your reviewing authority shall not allow this outcome to prejudice its decision­ making. Accordingly, we are providing a second option for determining whether you qualify as a Clean Unit. If your emissions unit does not meet the emission limitation determined from the analysis of the RBLC described above ( as appropriate for the area in which it is located), or if there is insufficient information in the RBLC to conduct the analysis, then you may still show, on a case­ by­ case basis, that your emissions unit will achieve a level of control that is `` substantially as effective'' as BACT or LAER, depending whether your emissions unit is in an attainment area or a nonattainment area. In an attainment area, your emissions unit must achieve a level of control that is `` substantially as effective'' as BACT. In a nonattainment area, your emissions unit must achieve a level of control that is `` substantially as effective'' as LAER. The reviewing authority will make a decision on whether a particular air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) is `` substantially as effective'' as the BACT/ LAER technology for a specific source on a case­ by­ case basis. We are not promulgating specific requirements or performance criteria for satisfying the `` substantially as effective'' test, because we believe reviewing authorities are in the best position to determine whether in fact a particular air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) is `` substantially as effective'' as the BACT/ LAER technology for a specific source. The case­ by­ case determinations must meet the same air quality test as those units going through a BACT/ LAER determination. Moreover, the public has opportunity for public review and comment on the `` substantially as effective'' decision. With these safeguards, we believe the `` substantially as effective'' test will ensure determinations that meet both the control technology and air quality tests, as well as allow sources to implement the controls that are best suited to their individual processes. Under the second part of the test to determine whether your unit qualifies for Clean Unit status, you must demonstrate that the allowable emissions will not cause or contribute to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. If your emissions unit has already been permitted under minor NSR or another SIP­ approved permitting program, you may have already satisfied the second part of this test. If not, consistent with the requirements in sections 165( a)( 3) and 173( a) of the CAA, you will be required to show that the allowable emissions will not cause or contribute to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. For areas that do not already attain the NAAQS, the source would be required to show that the emissions for the unit have been previously offset. 4. Can an Emissions Unit That Applies No Emissions Control Technology Qualify as a Clean Unit? In most cases, BACT/ LAER will result in significant emissions decreases ( such as 90 percent control for many VOC VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80225 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 32 It is possible that a BACT/ LAER analysis will not always result in the requirement of add­ on controls at a source. In some situations, a reviewing authority may appropriately determine that the control technology that best represents BACT/ LAER is a work practice, or a combination of work practices and add­ on controls. As a result, a requirement to use work practices, or a combination of add­ on controls and work practices, as an emissions control technology, could qualify an emissions unit for Clean Unit status, provided it meets the criteria established. coating sources). 32 In some circumstances, however, the outcome of a reviewing authority's BACT or LAER determination may result in an emission limitation that you will meet without using a control technology ( add­ on control, pollution prevention technique, or work practice). Under today's rules, you will not qualify as a Clean Unit in such circumstances. More specifically, today's rules also require you to make an investment to qualify initially as a Clean Unit. An investment includes any cost which would ordinarily qualify as a capital expense under the Internal Revenue Service's filing guidelines whether or not you actually choose to capitalize that cost. An investment also includes any cost you incur to change your emissions unit or process to implement a pollution prevention approach, including research expenses, or costs to retool or reformulate your emissions unit or process to accommodate an add­ on control, pollution prevention approach, or work practice. 5. When Do the Major NSR Requirements Apply to Clean Units? Once an emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit, it is subject to an alternative major NSR applicability test for calculating emissions increases for subsequent changes. As we discussed in section II of this preamble, we have codified our longstanding policy ( for emissions units that are not Clean Units) that a major modification occurs if both of the following result from the modification: ( 1) A significant emissions increase following the physical or operational change; and ( 2) a significant net emissions increase from the major stationary source. The major NSR applicability test for Clean Units is a different process. For Clean Units, you must first determine whether a project causes the need to change the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit which were established in conjunction with BACT, LAER, or Clean Unit determinations and any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT, LAER, or Clean Unit determination for a particular unit. If it does, you lose Clean Unit status, and the project is subject to the applicability requirements as if the emissions unit were never a Clean Unit. If the project does not cause the need to change the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit which were established in conjunction with BACT, LAER, or Clean Unit determinations and any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT, LAER, or Clean Unit determination for a particular unit, then you maintain Clean Unit status, and no emissions increase is deemed to occur from the project for the purposes of major NSR. Once you have lost Clean Unit status, you can only re­ qualify for Clean Unit status by going through the process that we describe in section V. C. 9 of this preamble. 6. Can You Get Clean Unit Status for Controls That Have Already Been Installed? As discussed in section V. C. 3, emissions units that have been through major NSR permitting automatically qualify for Clean Unit status. This includes those emissions units that went through major NSR before promulgation of today's final rules. If an emissions unit automatically qualifies for Clean Unit status because it went through major NSR, its Clean Unit status is based on the BACT/ LAER controls that went into service as a result of the major NSR review. That is, Clean Unit status is based on the BACT/ LAER controls regardless of whether the actual process for designating Clean Unit status through title V occurs at some time after the controls went into service. However, Clean Unit status, and the ability to use the applicability process for Clean Units, does not begin until the Clean Unit effective date. We discuss the specific procedures for when Clean Unit status starts, when it ends, and how it is designated in sections V. C. 7 through 9. For emissions units that have not been through major NSR, our rules allow your reviewing authority to provide you with Clean Unit status for emissions control that you have already installed and operated. However, our final rules also limit the time frame under which your reviewing authority is allowed to make such determinations for Clean Unit status that is granted through a SIP­ approved permitting process other than major NSR. Your reviewing authority will only be able to grant Clean Unit status for previously installed emissions controls if they were installed before the effective date of the program in your area. If the emissions unit's control technology is installed on or after the date that provisions for the Clean Unit applicability test are effective in your area, you must apply for Clean Unit status from your reviewing authority at the time the control technology is installed. As for emissions units that went through major NSR review, Clean Unit status for emissions units permitted through SIPapproved programs other than major NSR does not begin until the Clean Unit effective date. If you are applying for retroactive Clean Unit status, today's final rules allow your reviewing authority to compare your emissions control level to the BACT or LAER level that would have applied at the time you began construction of your emissions unit. However, in some cases, such a comparability analysis may be difficult for you to demonstrate because of lack of sufficient information from which your reviewing authority can make a reasoned determination. If this is the case, then you will have to demonstrate that your emissions controls are comparable to a BACT or LAER limit from a subsequent or current date. 7. When Can I Begin To Use the Clean Unit Test? The exact effective date depends on the circumstances of the individual emissions unit, as explained further below. As a general principle, however, the effective date for Clean Unit status can never be before the Clean Unit provision becomes effective in the relevant jurisdiction. For emissions units that automatically qualify for their original Clean Unit status because they have been through major NSR review, and for units that requalify for Clean Unit status ( see section V. C. 9) by going through major NSR review and implementing new control technology to meet current­ day BACT/ LAER, the effective date is the date the emissions unit's air pollution control technology is placed into service, or 3 years after the issuance date of the major NSR permit, whichever is earlier. However, the effective date can be no sooner than the date that provisions for the Clean Unit applicability test are approved by the Administrator for incorporation into the SIP and become effective for the State in which the unit is located. That is, if the source had a major NSR permit and began operating before the Clean Unit provision becomes effective in the relevant jurisdiction, the effective date is the date the State or local agency begins authorizing Clean Unit status. As we noted earlier, if the emissions unit previously went through major NSR, it automatically qualifies as a Clean Unit. The original Clean Unit status would be based on the controls VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80226 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 33 As discussed in section III. E of today's preamble, we believe that 15 years represents a reasonable time period for designating a Clean Unit. However, we proposed and took comment on a 10­ year period; therefore, we are finalizing today's rule with a 10­ year duration. In a separate Federal Register notice we will be proposing to change this duration to 15 years. that were installed to meet major NSR. An additional investment at the time the original Clean Unit status becomes effective is not required. For emissions units that re­ qualify for Clean Unit status ( see section V. C. 9) by going through major NSR using an existing control technology that continues to meet current­ day BACT/ LAER, the effective date is the date the new major NSR permit is issued. If you obtain Clean Unit status from your State or local reviewing authority using a SIP­ approved permitting process other than major NSR, the Clean Unit effective date is the later of the following dates: ( 1) The date that the State or local agency permit that designates the emissions unit as a Clean Unit is issued; and ( 2) the date that the emissions unit's air pollution control measures went into service. That is, if the controls went into service before the issuance date of the State or local agency permit that designates the unit as a Clean Unit, the Clean Unit effective date is the date that the permit is issued. As with units that have been through major NSR, additional investment is not required for the limited cases where there is a retroactive designation. If the issuance date of the State or local agency permit that designates the emissions unit as a Clean Unit is before the date the controls went into service ( as would likely be the case for a unit that is new or modified after the State or local agency begins to authorize Clean Unit status), then the effective date of Clean Unit status is the date the controls went into service. 8. How Long Does Clean Unit Status Last? In most cases, you may use the Clean Unit applicability test for a period of 10 years. 33 As a general principle, the Clean Unit expiration date can never be later than the date that is 10 years after the controls are brought into service. For emissions units that automatically qualify for their original Clean Unit status because they have been through major NSR review, and for units that requalify for Clean Unit status ( see section V. C. 9) by going through major NSR review and implementing new control technology to meet current­ day BACT/ LAER, Clean Unit status expires 10 years after the effective date, or the date the equipment went into service, whichever is earlier. However, Clean Unit status expires sooner if, at any time, the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining Clean Unit status that are included in the final rules. For emissions units that re­ qualify for Clean Unit status ( see section V. C. 9) by going through major NSR using an existing control technology that continues to meet current­ day BACT/ LAER, Clean Unit status expires 10 years after the effective date. However, as noted above, Clean Unit status expires sooner if, at any time, the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining Clean Unit status that are included in the final rules. The expiration date for Clean Units that have not been through major NSR permitting depends on whether the owner or operator qualifies for Clean Unit status based on current BACT/ LAER, or on BACT/ LAER at the time the control technology was installed. If the owner or operator of a previously installed unit demonstrates that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to the BACT/ LAER requirements that applied at the time the control technology was installed, then Clean Unit status expires 10 years from the date that the control technology was installed. For all other emissions units ( that is, previously installed units that are demonstrated to be comparable to current BACT/ LAER, new units, and units that re­ qualify as Clean Units), Clean Unit status expires 10 years from the effective date of the Clean Unit status. In addition, for all emissions units, Clean Unit status expires any time the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining Clean Unit status that are included in the final rules. When your Clean Unit status expires, you are subject to the major NSR applicability test as if your emissions unit is not a Clean Unit. The permitted emissions levels established for the Clean Unit do not expire. 9. Can I Re­ qualify for Clean Unit Status? You may re­ qualify for Clean Unit status after the status has expired or you have otherwise lost Clean Unit status, if you meet the conditions in our final regulations. As we stated before, we believe that once you have installed state­ of­ the­ art emissions control, an additional major NSR review will generally not result in any additional emissions controls for a period of years after the original control technology determination is made. Also, the period for which any specific air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) will continue to achieve the same level of control depends on many factors. As a practical matter, we have established a single time frame of 10 years for Clean Unit status, to provide simplicity in our final rules. However, for reasons we discuss in detail in section V. E. 1 of this preamble, we determined that a reasonable average equipment life for a control technology is generally longer than 10 years. Certainly we want to encourage source owner/ operators to install and maintain state­ of­ the­ art control. We believe this is more likely when you can be assured that you can retain Clean Unit status for the useful life of the equipment, as long as air quality continues to be assured. The useful life of the equipment may extend beyond the original Clean Unit expiration date. Therefore, we are promulgating final regulations that allow you to apply to re­ qualify for Clean Unit status. To re­ qualify for Clean Unit status, you would generally follow the same process that you used in first qualifying for Clean Unit status. However, we will not necessarily require you to meet an additional investment test to re­ qualify for Clean Unit status for the same controls. That is, unless the controls used to establish Clean Unit status are no longer BACT/ LAER or comparable, there will be no requirement for an investment to re­ qualify for Clean Unit status. You may re­ qualify for Clean Unit status either by going through major NSR or by going through the alternative Clean Unit Test that we described in section V. C. 3 of this preamble: ( 1) The air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) must be comparable to BACT or LAER; and ( 2) the allowable emissions will not cause or contribute to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. Regardless of which process you used to establish Clean Unit status initially, you may choose to requalify for Clean Unit status by going through major NSR or by going through the alternative two­ part test. Once you have submitted an application to re­ qualify for Clean Unit status, the reviewing authority will make a determination concerning current BACT/ LAER or comparable control technology. For example, suppose you had Clean Unit status for an emissions unit for which the controls VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 17: 13 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80227 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations went into service June 1, 1996, the permit application for Clean Unit requalification was submitted December 1, 2004, and the Clean Unit status expires June 1, 2006. In cases where the controls you installed in 1996 are still BACT/ LAER or comparable when the reviewing authority makes the determination following your application submittal in 2004, the emissions unit can re­ qualify for Clean Unit status based on the controls installed in 1996 if your emissions unit still meets all of the criteria for Clean Unit status. That is, in addition to the control technology review, the emissions unit must go through an air quality review and public participation. A safeguard related to Clean Unit controls is that for re­ qualifying for Clean Unit status when the emissions unit is located in a nonattainment area, the control determination must be LAER or comparable to LAER. If you previously received Clean Unit status based on the BACT level of control while the source was located in an attainment area and the attainment area becomes a nonattainment area by the time your Clean Unit status expires, the Clean Unit status for re­ qualification must be based on controls that are LAER or comparable to LAER. The air quality analysis for Clean Unit re­ qualifications will be that of the path that you have chosen'major NSR, or comparable. As we discuss in detail in section V. C. 3 of this preamble, for emissions units qualifying for Clean Unit status through the comparable test, you must show that the allowable emissions will not cause or contribute to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. We believe that the control technology determination, air quality review, and public participation requirements of the Clean Unit requalification process will ensure that Clean Units will continue to protect air quality throughout the 10­ year requalification period. Moreover, any offset or mitigation requirements as a result of a previous major NSR determination will remain in force. We expect that in many cases the controls used to initially establish Clean Unit status will still be operating efficiently and the Clean Unit status can be reestablished for an additional 10 years based on those controls. Suppose, however, you submitted an application to re­ qualify for Clean Unit status and the reviewing authority determines that your existing controls do not meet the level of current BACT/ LAER or comparable controls. In this case, you must install new or upgraded controls to re­ qualify for Clean Unit status. You must go through the control technology determination, air quality review, and public participation requirements of the Clean Unit re­ qualification process as described above. 10. What Terms and Conditions Must the Permit for my Clean Unit Contain? Major NSR permits contain the emission limitations based on BACT/ LAER, other permit terms and conditions that the reviewing authority identifies as representative of BACT/ LAER ( such as limits on hours of operation), and monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting requirements for the emissions unit. If you are qualifying for Clean Unit status through the major NSR review, your major NSR permit will have such terms and conditions. Likewise, any permit under a SIP­ approved permitting process other than major NSR that designates an emissions unit as a Clean Unit must specify: ( 1) The sourcespecific allowable permit emission limitations, the exceedance of which, in combination with a significant net emissions increase, will trigger major NSR review; ( 2) other permit terms and conditions that the reviewing authority identifies as representative or comparable to BACT/ LAER for your control technology ( such as limits on operating parameters, etc.); ( 3) any conditions used as the basis for the control technology determinations ( hours of operation, limits on raw materials, etc.); and ( 4) the monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements necessary to demonstrate that a `` clean'' level of emissions control is being achieved. Additional monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting may be required to assure compliance under § § 70.6( a)( 3) or 70.6( c)( 1) ( that is, to assure compliance under title V). The State and local agency permits establishing Clean Unit status must contain a statement designating the emissions unit as a Clean Unit. The State or local agency permit must also include general terms and conditions indicating the Clean Unit effective date and expiration date. Suppose the State or local agency permit has an effective date of May 5, 2006, and the controls will be installed after this date. The SIP permit would state that the effective date of the Clean Unit status is the date the controls go into service. The permit would also state that Clean Unit status will expire no later than May 5, 2016. Your title V permit must include the Clean Unit status, as well as the effective and expiration dates of the Clean Unit status. Your title V permit must also include: the emission limitation( s) that reflect BACT/ LAER or comparable control; other permit terms and conditions that the reviewing authority has determined represent BACT/ LAER or comparable control ( such as limits on hours of operation) and that ensure that air quality is protected; and the monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements necessary to demonstrate that a `` clean'' level of emissions control is being achieved. 11. How Will my Clean Unit Status be Incorporated Into my Title V Permit? Clean Unit status and other permit terms and conditions must be incorporated into the major stationary source's title V permit in accordance with the provisions of the applicable title V permit program under part 70 or part 71, but no later than when the title V permit is renewed. The title V permit must also contain the specific dates on which your Clean Unit status is effective and on which it expires. We are aware that the specific Clean Unit effective and expiration dates will frequently not be determined at the time that Clean Unit status is established. Therefore, the initial title V permit action that incorporates Clean Unit status and other permit terms and conditions may need to state the Clean Unit effective and expiration dates in general terms. For example, for units that have been through major NSR, the initial title V permit might state that the expiration date is the earlier of the following dates: the date 10 years after ( 1) the Clean Unit's effective date, or ( 2) the date the equipment went into service. The permit does not have to include the specific Clean Unit effective and expiration dates where they cannot be determined at the time of initial incorporation, such as would be the case when the Clean Unit has yet to be constructed. Furthermore, in these instances, we are not requiring that the title V permit be modified to incorporate the specific Clean Unit effective and expiration dates until the next permit renewal, reopening, or modification after such dates are known. As soon as the specific Clean Unit effective and expiration dates are known, the source must report them to the reviewing authority. The specific Clean Unit effective and expiration dates must then be incorporated into the title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80228 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. However, it is not necessary to amend the SIP­ approved permit to incorporate the specific Clean Unit effective and expiration dates, as long as these dates are incorporated into the title V permit at the next renewal. If you wish to incorporate the Clean Unit effective and expiration dates into the SIP permit, a title V modification would be required. While the title V permit contains the Clean Unit permit terms and conditions, we want to emphasize that any changes to Clean Unit permit terms and conditions ( other than incorporating the specific Clean Unit effective and expiration dates) must first be made through a SIP­ approved permitting process that provides for public review and opportunity for comment. Any such changes would be incorporated into the title V permit in the manner described above. 12. Can a Clean Unit Be Used in a Netting Analysis? Generally, for an emissions unit that has Clean Unit status because it has gone through major NSR permitting, you must not include emissions changes at the Clean Unit in a netting analysis, or use them for generating offsets, unless the emissions changes occur and you use them for these purposes before the effective date of Clean Unit status or after Clean Unit status expires. However, if you reduce emissions from the Clean Unit below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit, you may generate a credit for the difference between the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit and the new emission limitation, if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, permanent, and federally enforceable ( for the purposes of generating offsets) and enforceable as a practical matter ( for purposes of determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases). Such credits may be used for netting or as offsets. We are allowing the credit to be computed in this manner because the owner or operator has already obtained an actual emissions­ based offset for the emissions up to the Clean Unit emission limitations. By the owner/ operator's accepting a federally enforceable emission limitation below this level, these offsets are now available to create additional actual emissions reductions. The final rules are similar for emissions units that are designated as Clean Units in a SIP­ approved permitting process other than major NSR. You must not include emissions changes that occur at such units in a netting analysis, or use them for generating offsets, unless the emissions changes occur and you use them for these purposes before the effective date of the SIP requirements adopted to implement the Clean Units or after Clean Unit status expires. However, if you reduce emissions from the Clean Unit below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit, you may generate a credit for the difference between the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit and the new emission limitation, if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, permanent, and federally enforceable ( for purposes of generating offsets) and enforceable as a practical matter ( for purposes of determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases). Such credits may be used for netting or as offsets. 13. How Does Clean Unit Status Apply When There Are Multiple Pollutants? Clean Unit status is pollutant­ specific and may not be granted for more than one pollutant, except in cases where a group of pollutants is characterized as a single pollutant, such as VOCs. You may, however, qualify for simultaneous Clean Unit status for other pollutants at those emissions units that are sufficiently controlled to independently qualify as `` clean'' for each pollutant. For units applying for Clean Unit status and that do not already have a major NSR permit, the reviewing authority must specify the pollutants for which Clean Unit status applies as part of the permitting process establishing Clean Unit status. D. Legal Basis for the Clean Unit Test As discussed above, the Clean Unit applicability test would provide an alternative emissions test for determining if a significant increase in emissions has occurred after a physical change or change in the method of operation at units that are designated as `` clean.'' We believe that we have the authority to allow these specific types of units to use a different applicability test. The CAA is silent on whether increases in emissions for purposes of determining whether a physical or operational change constitutes a modification must be measured in terms of actual emissions, potential emissions, or some other currency. We believe that it is a reasonable interpretation of the CAA to determine applicability of the major NSR program for units qualifying as Clean Units in terms of the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit, and that this interpretation is consistent with the statutory purposes of NSR. The PSD permitting program has 5 key elements: ( 1) Control technology review; ( 2) air quality review; ( 3) monitoring requirements; ( 4) information on the source; and ( 5) procedures for processing applications, including public notice and the opportunity for comment. A new major source or major modification in an attainment area must go through PSD permitting to become a Clean Unit. That process would have had to include the elements listed above. CAA section 165. Similarly, the CAA requires new major sources or major modifications undertaken in nonattainment areas to obtain permits that require them to meet LAER and to obtain offsetting emissions reductions. CAA section 173. In order to be designated a Clean Unit, a major source or modification in a nonattainment area would have had to have gone through major NSR permitting review in the last 10 years. We believe that units that have undergone minor source permitting in a manner that fulfills the statutory purposes of major NSR either because a State's minor NSR program already contains equivalent provisions or because the existing program is enhanced for the purpose of allowing the reviewing authority to satisfy Clean Unit criteria also will have satisfied the requirements of the CAA in a manner sufficient to justify Clean Unit status. As we have discussed in section V. C of this preamble, to obtain Clean Unit status through a minor NSR program, that process must include a requirement for public participation. Furthermore, emissions units that are designated as Clean Units through SIPapproved minor NSR programs must satisfy an air quality test. You must provide information demonstrating that you will not cause or contribute to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation or adverse impact on an AQRV in a Federal Class I area. If your emissions unit has already been permitted under minor NSR or another SIP­ approved permitting program, you may have already satisfied the second part of this test. If not, consistent with the requirements in sections 165( a)( 3) and 173( a) of the CAA, you will be required to show that the allowable emissions will not cause or contribute to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. For areas that do not already attain the NAAQS, the source would be required to show that the emissions for the unit have been previously offset, or the reviewing authority will have to show that these emissions will not VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80229 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 34 Vatavuk, William, `` Part II, Factors for Estimating Capital and Operating Costs,'' Chemical Engineering, Nov. 3, 1980. interfere with the State's ability to achieve attainment. For Clean Units that have emission limitations and/ or work practice requirements established through programs that fulfill relevant major NSR statutory requirements, we believe that the alternative way to estimate emissions increases to evaluate applicability set forth under the Clean Unit Test is appropriate and consistent with Congress's intent. A project at a Clean Unit that would require a revision to the emission limitations or work practice requirements established through permitting programs that meet the requirements of the Act, or that would alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the permitting action, must go through a new permitting process. The reviewing authority must have already required state­ of­ the­ art pollution control technology ( or, through an investment, its pollution prevention or work practice equivalent), conducted the required air quality analyses based on the emissions level in the permit, and provided the public with an appropriate opportunity to comment on that level of emissions and air quality impact. Therefore, we believe that allowing an alternative means of evaluating applicability based on a revised emissions test for this category of unit is consistent with the CAA. E. Summary of Major Comments and Responses Although a few commenters categorically oppose the Clean Unit Test, most commenters support the concept. Practically all commenters oppose some aspect of the test or request that the test be clarified. Below are the major comments and our responses. 1. How Long Should You Be Eligible for the Clean Unit Applicability Test? We received numerous comments on the duration of Clean Unit status. In the proposal, we suggested a 10­ year duration and asked for comments regarding this period. We received comments supporting various lengths of time from 2 to 20 years. Although some commenters support a 10­ year duration, other commenters oppose it. Many commenters believe that 10 years is too short for Clean Unit status. These commenters argue that BACT/ LAER technologies accomplish substantial pollutant removals, and that the cost of a slight increase in pollutant removal is usually significant. These commenters urge us to establish a Clean Unit status duration that comports with the useful life of the control equipment, which would enable you to recover the costs of installing the pollution control technology. They believe that you should be able to recoup the investments in pollution control before being forced to abandon that technology and pay again for newer technology. Some commenters request that a presumptive life of 20 years be awarded to Clean Units, which is approximately how long the control equipment should be effective. Some commenters believe that 10 years would be too long, because they believe that advances in control technology occur more rapidly. A 10­ year duration would allow old, less effective technologies to be the basis of immunity from the NSR program. These commenters are particularly concerned about the 10­ year duration for BACT/ LAER determinations that were based on no controls. We believe that we have discretion to determine the appropriate period for which you should be eligible for the Clean Unit applicability test. As a policy matter, we believe that this time period should reach a balance between the unit's useful emissions control equipment life and the time frame in which additional major NSR review is likely to result in no added environmental benefit. As a practical matter, we realize that the `` ideal'' time frame will vary by emissions control technology and by pollutant; however, we believe using a single time frame will provide simplicity in our final rules. To determine an average life expectancy for a variety of control technologies, we relied on the guidelines for equipment life for 9 commonly used emissions control technologies published in `` Estimating Costs of Air Pollution Control Systems, Part II, Factors for Estimating Capital and Operating Costs.'' 34 Using the average of the low, average, and high values, we determined that a reasonable average equipment life for a control technology is equal to 15 years. We then looked at the incremental improvement in control technology over time. We found that the evolution of pollution control equipment over time is dominated by innovation, rather than invention. In other words, the change in design and capacity for any given device type occurs infrequently as a series of marginal improvements over the preceding design. Consequently, the marginal improvement in pollution abatement one can expect between generations of the same type of device is also very small too small to justify the cost of an entirely new unit. For example, flue gas desulfurization ( FGD) units have been used in the United States for about 20 years, and were used in Japan and Germany for 10 years before that. During the early 1980' s, a typical FGD system removed about 90 percent of the sulfur from a flue gas stream. Today, modern FGD systems typically average 95 to 99 percent removal efficiency less than a 10 percent improvement in 20 years. We also evaluated, from a cost­ per­ ton basis, whether the marginal improvement in removal efficiency is too expensive. Again, we considered the FGD example. From an actual NSR determination for a coal­ fired electrical generating unit in the Midwest, the installation of an FGD system in 1985 would have cost $ 189 million and had a removal efficiency of 90 percent ( 76,500 tons of sulfur per year). The identical boiler in 2001 would use an FGD system with a 95 percent efficiency, costing $ 285 million, and removing 80,750 tpy, an additional 4,250 tons. The additional cost for the improved design for the 2001 installation ( including the retrofit and upgrade of existing components and the new cost of larger pumps and other auxiliary equipment) would have been more than $ 100 million, or greater than $ 24,000 per ton. Consequently, from an efficiency standpoint, requiring an upgrade on this unit to BACT or LAER levels would not have been economical. After reviewing all of this information, we determined that a 15­ year period represents a reasonable and appropriate time frame during which you should be allowed to use your permitted allowable emissions to determine whether an increase triggers major NSR review. However, we proposed and took comment on a 10­ year duration. Therefore, today we are finalizing a single time frame of 10 years that applies to all types of emissions control technologies and all types of pollutants. Because we believe that 15 years represents a reasonable time frame, we will be proposing a 15­ year duration for Clean Unit status. After considering any public comments on a 15­ year duration for Clean Unit status, we may amend today's final regulations. We believe it is beneficial to allow emissions units using pollution prevention techniques or work practices to qualify for Clean Unit status where those units meet certain criteria. In some cases ( coating operations, for example), pollution prevention techniques or work practices are stateof the­ art pollution control, and either VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80230 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations there would not be an improvement in pollution control if the unit were required to install add­ on controls or the incremental cost effectiveness of the add­ on control installation would be too high for it to qualify as BACT. In other cases, the most stringent control is based on add­ on control and pollution prevention. Therefore, under many circumstances, we believe that pollution prevention techniques and work practices can be implemented to achieve a level of emissions reductions comparable to that achieved by BACT/ LAER add­ on controls. Also, initiation of a pollution prevention technique or a work practice can require a substantial investment in research to retool or reformulate your operations. Thus, we do not believe that a blanket exclusion from Clean Unit status is appropriate for emissions units that are controlled with pollution control techniques. Implementation of pollution prevention approaches and work practices usually requires research, followed by some retooling or reformulation of a process line or unit operation. As part of this retooling or reformulation, some equipment has to be purchased up front ( for example, sniffers for leak detection and repair operations, improved process control consoles and/ or software for recycle streams, initial modeling for combustion optimization systems). This equipment purchase or initial modeling involves a one­ time investment; hence, there is an investment associated with pollution prevention or work practice implementation. Researching the application of an approach also qualifies as an investment for these purposes. We received comment from a number of commenters who are concerned about Clean Unit status when BACT/ LAER determinations are based on no control. As these commenters note, `` no controls'' does not equate to a wellcontrolled emissions unit. We agree with these commenters, and today's final rules clarify that Clean Unit status can be based on add­ on control, pollution prevention techniques, work practices, or a combination of them. We recognize that there are some circumstances when the outcome of a reviewing authority's BACT or LAER determination may result in an emission limitation that you will meet without using an air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices). We believe that such emissions units should not qualify as Clean Units, because they fail the very premise under which we established the Clean Unit applicability test. That is, there is no period of time in which we can reach a balance between the unit's useful emissions control equipment life and the time frame in which additional major NSR review is likely to result in no added environmental benefit. Source categories that currently have few or no control technology options are likely to be the categories that will experience a rapid advancement in emissions control technology over a short period of time. Accordingly, today's final rules contain two limitations on use of the Clean Unit applicability test. You may not use the Clean Unit applicability test for any emissions unit that is not using an air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) and for which you have not made an investment to control emissions. 2. Does the Clean Unit Applicability Test Measure the Increase in Maximum Hourly Potential Emissions? We proposed that the Clean Unit Test would continue to apply as long as the emissions unit's maximum hourly potential emissions did not increase. The baseline for the maximum hourly potential emissions rate could be established at any time in the 6 months before the activity or project that increases emissions. Almost all commenters oppose basing the Clean Unit Test on the hourly PTE, as well as the 6­ month period for setting the emissions rate. Some commenters argue that an hourly PTE test is not environmentally protective enough. One commenter notes that we were inappropriately using the applicability test under the NSPS as the applicability test for major NSR, which should be based on tpy. Many commenters view the hourly PTE test as so restrictive that few sources would take advantage of the Clean Unit Test. These commenters believe that the hourly emissions rate obscures the real basis for Clean Unit status, which is the add­ on control efficiency. We agree with the commenters who maintain that Clean Unit status should be based on the emissions level achievable through the use of control technologies. As these commenters note, once an emissions level has been determined based on BACT/ LAER, it is unlikely that additional review would result in a more stringent level of control. As a result, we are not finalizing the Clean Unit Test as proposed with the hourly PTE test. Instead, today's final rules for Clean Units are based on reduction of air pollution through the use of control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) that meet both the following requirements. First, the control technology achieves a BACT/ LAER level of emissions reduction as determined through issuance of a major NSR permit within the past 10 years. However, the emissions unit is not eligible for Clean Unit status if the BACT/ LAER determination resulted in no requirement to reduce emissions below the level of a standard, uncontrolled, new emissions unit of the same type. Second, the owner or operator made an investment to install the control technology. For the purpose of this determination, an investment includes expenses to research the application of a pollution prevention technique to the emissions unit or expenses to apply a pollution prevention technique to an emissions unit. By adopting this approach, we are allowing the reviewing authority to decide the appropriate emission limitations or work practice requirements that will be used to obtain and maintain Clean Unit status. If a project at a Clean Unit does not cause the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements that form the basis for Clean Unit status, the emissions unit remains a Clean Unit. On the other hand, if the project causes the need for such change to the emission limitations or work practice requirements, the emissions unit loses Clean Unit status and is subject to the applicability requirements of major NSR. 3. What Kind of Changes Are Allowed Under Clean Unit Status? It is not our intention to limit increases in emissions unit capacity as long as emissions are under the sourcespecific allowable levels and the increase is within the capacity for which you obtained approval when applying for Clean Unit status. Incremental improvements to existing units are acceptable. However, complete changes to emissions units making them into completely different units than were originally permitted are not acceptable. For example, switching to a smaller but more polluting process than originally permitted may trigger stricter BACT/ LAER requirements, even at the same annual emissions rate, since higher percentage removal rates and lower costs would be possible at higher concentrations. We expect that changes such as, but not limited to, increasing production to permitted levels, reconfiguring the process, changing process chemicals if consistent with the original Clean Unit application, replacing components, replacing catalysts, or adding other controls, or other changes would be VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80231 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations allowable for Clean Units. In no instances are we authorizing violations of any existing permit conditions or other applicable requirements that may apply to the Clean Unit. You may not reconstruct a Clean Unit under an existing Clean Unit status. 4. Does the Clean Unit Applicability Test Apply to Units That Have Not Gone Through a Major NSR Permitting Review? In 1996, we proposed that reviewing authorities submit their minor source permit decisions for us to determine whether the emission limitations were comparable to BACT or LAER. Commenters generally support allowing units permitted through minor NSR programs to qualify for Clean Unit status. These commenters believe State and local agencies are well­ equipped to make control technology determinations. A few commenters are concerned that control technology determinations made under minor NSR programs do not always require adequate air quality review or opportunity for public comment and review. They maintain that these program elements are essential for making control technology determinations that are equivalent to BACT/ LAER. We also received comments on allowing Clean Unit status for emissions units that have not gone through either major or minor NSR, such as those that decrease emissions to meet other requirements under the Act. These comments are mixed. A few commenters support this option. Others believe it makes no sense to extend the status to units that had not had a recent control technology determination, particularly considering the burden the review would place on reviewing authorities. We agree that control technology determinations made by State and local agencies can be comparable to BACT/ LAER, regardless of the purpose for which the control technology decision is made. However, we also agree with those commenters who believe a thorough analysis is necessary to ensure that air quality is protected. Moreover, we agree that a control technology determination is incomplete unless it has been through public review. Therefore, today we are promulgating regulations that allow emissions units that have not had a BACT/ LAER determination to qualify for Clean Unit status, if they are permitted under a SIPapproved permitting program that provides for public notice of the proposed determination and opportunity for public comment to determine whether you should qualify as a Clean Unit. 5. Does Clean Unit Status Apply to Units That Have RACT or MACT Limits? A number of commenters maintain that emission limitations based on RACT and MACT achieve control comparable to those based on BACT and LAER. These commenters therefore believe Clean Unit status should be available for emissions units with RACT or MACT limits. However, other commenters agree with us that RACT and MACT limits should not automatically be considered equivalent to BACT/ LAER limits. We are maintaining our position in the proposal rule that Clean Unit status does not presumptively apply to units with limits based on RACT or MACT. However, when you believe a specific RACT or MACT limit is comparable to BACT/ LAER, you may choose to use a SIP­ approved permitting process to try to obtain Clean Unit status. 6. How Should We Determine Whether a Control Technology Is Comparable to BACT or LAER? We proposed two methods for determining that control technology was comparable to BACT/ LAER average of the level of control for the last 3 years, and percent control. None of the commenters support using the average emissions rates to determine comparability. The commenters believe that in some cases this approach could lead to skewed results, or that the average control determination can differ substantially from the most recent determination. The commenters suggested that EPA consider all technologies required to be considered in a BACT/ LAER determination, not just those listed in the RBLC. The commenters also say that it is not acceptable to call an uncontrolled unit a `` clean'' unit, when the Clean Unit Test is meant for companies that have taken the effort and expense to install controls or low emitting equipment. Although a few commenters support using percent control, several commenters oppose it. They maintain that defining control levels based on a certain percentage derived from BACT or LAER for equivalent sources is not simple and would require the frequent collection and maintenance of large quantities of information. Based on the public comments on our two proposed methods, we have decided to develop a modified version of the proposed averaging method for determining when an air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) is comparable to BACT/ LAER. You can make a showing that the air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) is comparable to BACT/ LAER in one of two ways: ( 1) by comparing your emissions unit's control level to BACT/ LAER determinations for other similar sources in the RBLC; or ( 2) by making a case­ by­ case demonstration that your emissions control is `` substantially as effective'' as BACT or LAER. Under the first approach, we have developed slightly different approaches for sources located in attainment and nonattainment areas. For those emissions units located in attainment areas, the emissions unit's control technology is presumed to be comparable to BACT if it achieves an emission limitation that is equal to or better than the average of the emission limitations achieved by all the sources for which a BACT or LAER determination has been made within the preceding 5 years and entered into the RBLC, and for which it is technically feasible to apply the BACT or LAER control technology to the emissions unit. To address the commenters' concerns regarding other BACT/ LAER determinations that might not be in the RBLC, we have included a provision that allows the reviewing authority to also compare this presumption to any additional BACT or LAER determinations of which it is aware, and to consider any information on achieved­ in­ practice pollution control technologies provided during the public comment period, to determine whether any presumptive determination that the control technology is comparable to BACT is correct. For sources in nonattainment areas, the emissions unit's control technology is presumed to be comparable to LAER if it achieves an emission limitation that is at least as stringent as any one of the 5 best­ performing similar sources for which a LAER determination has been made within the preceding 5 years, and for which information has been entered into the RBLC. As is the case for units in attainment areas, the reviewing authority shall also compare this presumption to any additional LAER determinations of which it is aware, and shall consider any information on achieved­ in­ practice pollution control technologies provided during the public comment period, to determine whether any presumptive determination that the control technology is comparable to LAER is correct. The second approach, the `` substantially as effective'' test, avoids a `` one­ size­ fits­ all'' approach that could VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80232 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 35 July 1, 1994 memorandum from John S. Seitz, Director, OAQPS, `` Pollution Control Projects and New Source Review ( NSR) Applicability'' and hereinafter referred to as the `` July 1, 1994 policy guidance.'' preclude some well­ controlled sources from benefitting from the Clean Unit Test simply because there is insufficient information in the RBLC or because they are using an innovative approach to emissions control. This provision will allow you to use alternative controls as long as they achieve comparable control and air quality results. We believe that the reviewing authority is in the best position to judge whether a particular control technology achieves an emissions control level that is comparable to BACT or LAER for a specific application, as well as to assure that air quality impacts have been accounted for. Thus, rather than requiring the reviewing authority to submit its permit decisions to us for approval as a comparable technology, our final rules allow the reviewing authority the ability to make this determination after the public comment process. 7. Can Clean Unit Status Be Made Using the Title V Permitting Process? We proposed that for sources that had not undergone major NSR, Clean Unit status would occur as part of the title V permitting process. Although a few commenters support this concept, several State and local agency commenters strongly disagree. These commenters believe that title V is an appropriate mechanism for documenting Clean Units, but that the process for certifying sources should be separate from title V to avoid delays in title V permitting. We agree with these commenters, and today are promulgating provisions that an emissions unit may be designated as a Clean Unit once it has gone through major NSR or another SIP­ approved permitting program that provides for public notice and opportunity for comment. This allows the reviewing authority the flexibility to use the permitting process that it believes is most appropriate to make a Clean Unit status determination. However, once Clean Unit status has been established through a SIP­ approved permitting program, it must be incorporated into the title V permit. See section V. C. 7 for a discussion of this process. VI. Pollution Control Projects A. Description and Purpose of This Action Our policy is to promote pollution control and prevention projects whenever possible. Today we are finalizing a rule provision that would exclude from major NSR permitting requirements certain work practices and the installation of qualifying pollution control and pollution prevention projects. With these provisions, we are removing a regulatory disincentive that might otherwise prevent industry from undertaking pollution control and prevention measures that result in a net environmental benefit. The `` Pollution Control Project Exclusion'' ( or `` PCP Exclusion'') will allow the installation of certain projects that result in net overall environmental benefits to avoid the permitting requirements of major NSR for their collateral emissions increases that exceed the significant level. This action was proposed on July 23, 1996, and closely paralleled our existing policy memorandum 35 which, in effect, enabled a control project exclusion for EUSGUs which was implemented under the electric utilityspecific NSR rule ( see 57 FR 32314, hereinafter `` WEPCO PCP Exclusion'') to apply to all types of sources, and enabled qualifying pollution prevention projects to apply for an exclusion as well. This action will replace both the WEPCO PCP Exclusion and the July 1, 1994 policy guidance with a single, comprehensive NSR exclusion for all types of qualifying PCPs including add­ on controls, switches to less polluting fuels, work practices, and pollution prevention projects. Morever, this final rule will minimize procedural delays in getting a PCP approved, while ensuring appropriate environmental protection. We define a PCP as an activity, set of work practices, or project at an existing emissions unit that reduces emissions of air pollution from the unit. The PCP Exclusion may be sought when a project is installed at an existing source where it reduces the emissions rate of one air pollutant while causing an increase in emissions of a different, `` collateral'' pollutant. A common example of such a project is installation of a thermal incinerator, which forms NOX as a collateral pollutant while reducing VOC emissions. For evaluating the environmental impact of a collateral emissions increase, the source and reviewing authority will assess the difference between the emissions unit's post­ change actual emissions and its pre­ change baseline actual emissions. This test is discussed in section II of today's preamble. That increase is then weighed against the emissions decrease of the primary pollutant to determine whether the PCP, as a whole, provides an environmental benefit. The source and reviewing authority also must ensure that the change does not cause or contribute to an air quality violation, that no ERCs are generated ( through initial application of the PCP), and that any significant emissions increase of a nonattainment pollutant is accounted for with acceptable offsets or SIP measures. In performing the air quality analysis under this provision, the procedures established for conducting air quality analysis in conjunction with NSR permitting will be used. This rule excludes the installation of qualifying PCPs including add­ on control devices, raw material substitutions, work practices, process changes and other pollution prevention strategies from the definition of `` physical or operational change'' within the definition of major modification in our Federal regulations ( e. g., § 52.21). We are also requiring that States adopt the same exclusion in their NSR programs. The decision to make codifying changes to the existing WEPCO PCP Exclusion and the July 1, 1994 policy guidance draws largely from recommendations of the CAAAC Subcommittee on NSR Reform. The members of the Subcommittee included representatives of State and Federal regulatory agencies, Federal natural resource managers, industry, and environmental and public health interest groups. The Subcommittee's recommendations reflected the consensus of this balanced group of stakeholders. B. What We Proposed and How Today's Action Compares To It Our proposed PCP Exclusion provisions essentially restated the July 1, 1994 policy guidance, and incorporated a `` primary purpose'' test as an initial hurdle for candidate PCPs. The `` primary purpose'' test would have limited the exclusion to those projects whose primary function is to reduce air pollution. The proposal, like the previous PCP Exclusion rule and policy guidance, maintained that the exclusion was not applicable to air pollution controls and emissions associated with the construction of a new emissions unit, nor to the replacement or reconstruction of an entire existing emissions unit with a newer or different one. In addition, the fabrication, manufacture, or production of pollution control/ prevention equipment and inherently less polluting fuels or raw materials would not, in and of themselves, qualify as a PCP. We also incorporated two safeguards that were taken directly from the WEPCO PCP Exclusion and the July 1, 1994 policy VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80233 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations guidance. First, the reviewing authority would be required to determine that the PCP is `` environmentally beneficial.'' A second safeguard from our proposal would direct reviewing authorities to evaluate the air quality impacts of a proposed PCP and ensure that it does not cause or contribute to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. We proposed specific add­ on control technologies that would be considered presumptively `` environmentally beneficial'' based on their proven history of positive environmental impact. The proposal also allowed for fuel switches to less polluting fuels and substitutions to less potent ozone depleting substances ( ODS) to be presumptively environmentally beneficial projects. For other pollution prevention projects and new add­ on control technologies to qualify as a PCP, the proposal required the reviewing authority to determine that the project was environmentally beneficial and, additionally for new add­ on control devices, that they be `` demonstrated in practice.'' We received comments on every key aspect of the proposed PCP Exclusion. Although most parties support the PCP Exclusion, their suggestions regarding implementation of the exclusion vary considerably. Industry commenters generally desire maximum flexibility, and suggest extending the exclusion to cross­ media control projects, limiting the `` environmentally beneficial'' and `` primary purpose'' requirements, allowing for the generation of ERCs from PCPs, and broadening which pollution prevention projects qualified. Other commenters, including State agencies and environmental organizations, generally favor a more restrictive approach that involves more agency oversight and creates more enforceable mechanisms to ensure that the exclusion would not be abused. All comments are specifically addressed in the Technical Support Document. Today's rule revises the proposed PCP Exclusion in several ways, including the following. Eliminating the `` primary purpose'' requirement. Expanding the list of presumptively environmentally beneficial projects to include additional control technologies and strategies. Enabling projects that otherwise are PCPs and result in utilization increases to qualify for the exclusion. Using an actual­ to­ projected­ actual format for determining emissions changes for all source categories to demonstrate net environmental benefit supplemented by air quality analysis under certain circumstances, regardless of their projected emissions increases resulting from utilization. Clarifying that the replacement, reconstruction, or modification of an existing emissions control technology could qualify for the exclusion. Detailing the calculations for determining whether a switch to a different ODS is environmentally beneficial. Changing the visibility component of the air quality analysis to `` an air quality related value ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a FLM, and for which information is available to the general public''. Identifying which fuel switches are presumed `` inherently less polluting''. Enabling work practice standards to qualify for the exclusion. Clarifying that modeling for air quality impacts analyses may use projected actual emissions. Detailing proper noticing requirements for listed projects to use this exclusion. Describing in detail the process for granting the PCP Exclusion for nonlisted control technologies and pollution prevention strategies. Disqualifying projects that cannot secure acceptable offsetting emissions reductions or SIP measures for PCPs resulting in a significant net increase of a nonattainment pollutant. Disallowing generation of netting and offset credits from the initial application of PCPs that qualify for this exclusion. Clarifying that non­ air pollution impacts will not be considered in the `` environmentally beneficial'' determination. By today's action we are superseding the PCP regulatory exclusion that applied only to EUSGUs. Today's action covers all types of sources, including EUSGUs. The new, broader PCP Exclusion will ensure equitable treatment of all source categories and remove any disincentive for companies that wish to install pollution control and pollution prevention projects, to the extent allowed by the CAA. Thus, owners or operators of EUSGUs who want a PCP Exclusion may, like any other source category, use the expanded definition of `` pollution control project,'' which includes the lengthened list of environmentally acceptable control devices. Despite today's rule revisions addressing a broader array of pollution control and pollution prevention projects at a larger variety of sources, we feel that the rule's procedures are less complex than and are clearer than the WEPCO PCP Exclusion and the July 1, 1994 policy guidance. We are satisfied that the final PCP Exclusion best achieves the goals of minimizing regulatory burden and reducing procedural delays for projects that ensure net overall environmental protection. 1. Applicability a. What types of projects may qualify for the PCP Exclusion? In the WEPCO PCP Exclusion, we found that installation of add­ on emissions control projects, switches to less polluting fuels, and certain clean coal demonstration projects could be PCPs, `` unless the project renders the unit less environmentally beneficial.'' 57 FR 32319. Today's rule affirms that these types of projects are appropriate candidates for the exclusion, and it expands the types of projects that can qualify to include installation of other control devices that were not previously listed in the regulations, as well as work practice standards and switches to less potent quantities of ODS. Some of the control technologies ( for example, oxidation/ absorption catalyst and biofiltration) listed in today's revisions were either not well known or not demonstrated in practice as of the release of the WEPCO PCP Exclusion and the July 1, 1994 policy guidance exclusion; consequently, today's rule brings the list of approved PCPs up to date. We believe that the overall net impact of installing and operating the listed add­ on control systems is environmentally beneficial and that such projects are desirable from an environmental perspective. The add­ on controls in the approved list historically have been applied to many different kinds of sources to reduce emissions. They have been consistently used because it is generally understood that, from an overall environmental perspective, these controls are effective in reducing emissions when they are applied to existing plants in a manner consistent with standard and reasonable practices. Certain pollution prevention projects for example, fuel switches and low­ NOX burners are also presumed to be environmentally beneficial when properly applied. Consequently, as part of the exclusion for PCPs, we do not require a case­ by­ case `` environmentally beneficial'' demonstration for the `` listed'' PCPs, as long as they are properly applied and site­ specific factors do not indicate that their VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80234 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations application would be environmentally harmful. Thus, the `` environmentally beneficial'' presumption created by the list may be rebutted. For companies wishing to install and operate non­ listed PCPs, however, the process is more rigorous. In these cases, the reviewing authority first must consider casespecific factors to determine whether the non­ listed project results in a net environmental benefit and then must provide an opportunity for, and respond to, public notice and comment before approving the project as a PCP. b. Why does the PCP Exclusion not apply to greenfield sources? Today's rule restricts applicability of the PCP Exclusion to physical changes being made at existing sources. Installing or implementing a project on an existing source is more likely to improve the environment than is the construction of a new source, since one can reasonably expect a PCP to reduce overall emissions, barring a considerable utilization increase. New sources, however, introduce new emissions to the air without reducing existing emissions, and consequently should be as clean as possible. Furthermore, new emissions units are among the major capital investments in industrial equipment, which are the very types of projects that Congress intended to address in the NSR provisions when such projects result in an overall emissions increase from the major stationary source. Thus, when emissions from a new source exceed the significant level, they are subject to NSR, and all emissions that are generated from the new project should be addressed in the major NSR permit evaluation for the major stationary source. c. Does the PCP Exclusion apply to rebuilt or upgraded control devices? We are clarifying in today's rule that upgrading or replacing existing emissions control equipment with a more effective emissions control project can qualify for the PCP Exclusion. However, the new PCP would have to result in a level of control more stringent than the original control equipment, in terms of emissions rate or output­ based emissions rate, such as upgrading a scrubber to increase removal efficiency. Another example that would qualify is a control device that achieves an emissions reduction equivalent to that of the original device, but is more energy efficient. An example of this is the conversion of a thermal oxidizer to a catalytic oxidizer. As long as the catalytic oxidizer achieved emissions control equivalent to that of the thermal oxidizer, it would qualify for a PCP Exclusion since it reduces energy use. 2. Environmental Benefits a. What projects do we presume to be environmentally beneficial? Commenters recommend that we expand the list of presumptively environmentally beneficial projects to include other add­ on control technologies that are commonly used to reduce emissions at major stationary sources. We agree with this recommendation and have expanded the list of presumptively environmentally beneficial PCPs accordingly in today's rule. We presume the projects listed in Table 2 are environmentally beneficial. We based our decision to add certain projects to the list on two criteria: ( 1) The PCP is `` demonstrated in practice''; and ( 2) its overall effectiveness in reducing emissions of the primary pollutant( s) when balanced against its potential for emissions increases of collateral pollutant( s). TABLE 2. ENVIRONMENTALLY BENEFICIAL POLLUTION CONTROL PROJECTS Control device/ PCP Pollutant controlled Conventional & advanced flue gas desulfurization. SO2 Sorbent injection Electrostatic precipitators ............ Particulates and other pollutants Baghouses High efficiency multiclones Scrubbers Flue gas recirculation ................. NOX Low­ NOX burners or combustors Selective non­ catalytic reduction Selective catalytic reduction Low emission combustion ( for internal combustion engines) oxidation/ absorption catalyst ( e. g., SCONOX TM) Regenerative thermal oxidizers .. VOC and HAP. Catalytic oxidizers Thermal incinerators Hydrocarbon combustion flares 36 Condensers Absorbers & adsorbers Biofiltration TABLE 2. ENVIRONMENTALLY BENEFICIAL POLLUTION CONTROL PROJECTS Continued Control device/ PCP Pollutant controlled Floating roofs ( for storage vessels 36 For the purposes of these rules, `` Hydrocarbon combustion flare'' means either a flare used to comply with an applicable NSPS or MACT standard ( including use of flares during startup, shutdown, or malfunction permitted under such a standard), or a flare that serves to control emissions from waste streams comprised predominantly of hydrocarbons and containing no more than 230 mg/ dscm hydrogen sulfide. Other presumed environmentally beneficial PCPs include activities or projects undertaken to accommodate: ( 1) switching to different ODS with a less damaging ozone­ depleting effect ( factoring in its ozone depletion potential and projected usage); and ( 2) switching to an inherently less polluting fuel, to be limited to the following. Switching from a heavier grade of fuel oil to a lighter fuel oil, or any grade of oil to 0.05 percent sulfur diesel. ( that is, from a higher sulfur content # 2 fuel, or from # 6 fuel, to CA 0.05 percent sulfur # 2 diesel) Switching from coal, oil, or any solid fuel to natural gas, propane, or gasified coal. Switching from coal to wood, excluding construction or demolition waste, chemical or pesticide treated wood, and other forms of `` unclean'' wood Switching from coal to # 2 fuel oil ( 0.5 percent maximum sulfur content) Switching from high sulfur coal to low sulfur coal ( maximum 1.2 percent sulfur content) We are presuming that the application of a PCP listed above is environmentally beneficial and would be eligible for a PCP Exclusion. This presumption is premised on an understanding that you will design and operate the controls in a manner that is consistent with proper industry, engineering, and reasonable practices, and that you minimize increases in collateral pollutants within the physical configuration and operational standards usually associated with the emissions control device or strategy. You will be required to certify that this is true in the notification you send your reviewing authority. As stated before, the `` environmentally beneficial'' determination is a presumption, so it can be rebutted in cases in which a reviewing authority determines that a particular proposed PCP project would not be environmentally beneficial. Also, VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80235 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations this presumption does not apply when: ( 1) The PCP is not designed, operated, or maintained in a manner consistent with standard and reasonable practices; ( 2) the collateral pollutant emissions increases are not minimized within the physical configuration and operational standards usually associated with the emissions control device or strategy; or ( 3) the unit will be less environmentally beneficial. Also, when a reviewing authority determines that an otherwise listed project would not be constructed and operated consistent with standard practices, it may rebut the `` environmentally beneficial'' presumption for that application of the technology. Finally, it should be noted that commenters on the proposed rule list several examples of specific projects they believe we should add to the list of presumptively environmentally beneficial projects. However, some of these suggested PCP scenarios would never trigger NSR because there would not be a significant increase in emissions, from either the collateral or primary pollutant. For example, one commenter says we should consider the termination or decommissioning of an emissions unit an environmentally beneficial technology. We have never required a unit to undergo NSR before terminating operation; consequently, there is no need for a PCP Exclusion. Commenters raised other scenarios but provided few examples and insufficient detail from which we could draw any conclusions. We believe that the PCP Exclusion will benefit only a subset of all PCPs undertaken at existing sources, in part because most control projects will not cause an emissions increase of any criteria pollutant and, thus, will not trigger NSR. As always, major NSR only applies to your physical or operational changes that result in a significant net emissions increase at your source. b. What is Meant by `` Environmentally Beneficial''? The WEPCO PCP Exclusion defines a PCP as `` any activity or project undertaken . . . for purposes of reducing emissions.'' § 52.21( b)( 32). We have explained that `` EPA expects that most, if not all, pollution control projects will reduce net actual emissions.'' 57 FR 32319 ( 1992). The WEPCO PCP Exclusion therefore `` avoids the need to undertake a quantitative emissions increase calculation in every case'' that a facility prepares to undertake a PCP. Rather, in recognition that while a PCP `` could theoretically cause a small collateral increase in some emissions, it will substantially reduce emissions of other pollutants,'' the rule contemplates that sources proposing PCPs that are not listed will determine in the first instance whether they are entitled to the PCP Exclusion based on the `` project's net emissions and overall impact on the environment.'' Id. at 32321. Nevertheless, `` the reviewing authority can require additional modeling under certain circumstances to evaluate the air quality impact of a [ PCP].'' Id. As for the WEPCO PCP Exclusion, `` reducing emissions'' is the bedrock of the PCP Exclusion. For the list of PCPs in today's regulation, we are satisfied that the net impact on the environment from these projects is beneficial because of our broad experience with these technologies. Consequently, such projects are desirable from an environmental protection perspective, and we have no reason to doubt the validity of the `` environmentally beneficial'' presumption when such controls are applied to existing sources consistent with standard and reasonable practices. For those projects not listed in Table 2, there is no presumption as to whether or not the projects are environmentally beneficial, and therefore the PCP Exclusion is not self­ executing. On a case­ by­ case basis, your reviewing authority must consider the net environmental benefit of a non­ listed project and approve requests for the PCP Exclusion for a specific application of the project upon a showing that it is environmentally beneficial. You must receive this approval from your reviewing authority before beginning actual construction of the PCP. This approval must be conducted through a SIP­ approved permitting process that conforms to the requirements of § § 51.160 and 51.161, including a requirement for a public hearing and 30­ day public comment period on all aspects of the project. This includes an opportunity for the public and EPA to review and comment on the environmental benefits analysis and the air quality impacts assessment. The reviewing authority's evaluation of the project's net environmental benefits is limited to air quality considerations; specifically, the air quality benefits of emissions reductions of the primary pollutant must outweigh any detrimental effects from emissions increases in the collateral pollutant, when comparing the unit's post­ change emissions to its pre­ change baseline actual emissions. Also, the reviewing authority's decision on a case­ specific approval of a PCP Exclusion does not serve to proclaim that a given technology is environmentally beneficial for purposes of subsequent PCP Exclusion applications for the same technology. We may add non­ listed control devices, work practices, and pollution prevention projects to the approved list, such that a previously non­ listed project can be considered for a self­ executing PCP Exclusion. The technology must be reviewed by us to ensure that the project's overall net impact on the environment is indeed beneficial. Our evaluation would hinge on the same factors mentioned above for the reviewing authority's case­ by­ case reviews. Once `` listed,'' a subsequent project could be presumed environmentally beneficial unless casespecific factors or impacts would indicate otherwise. Today's rule also provides more guidance in this rule on what constitutes an environmentally beneficial fuel switch. In general, we lack sufficient information from which to categorically determine that a switch to solid fuel will be `` inherently less polluting.'' For instance, switching from oil to woodwaste may decrease sulfur emissions while increasing particulate emissions. Switching between solid fuels, such as coal, woodwaste, or tirederived fuels, must therefore be evaluated more closely before we can determine whether such a switch could qualify as an environmentally beneficial PCP. Accordingly, we specify which fuel switches are presumptively available for the PCP Exclusion. c. Why are not More Pollution Prevention Projects Presumed Environmentally Beneficial? Switching to a less polluting fuel or to a less potent quantity of ODS are prime examples of pollution prevention projects, and both are already listed as presumptively environmentally beneficial. However, some commenters point out that there are far more end­ ofpipe add­ on technologies that are listed as environmentally beneficial and recommend that we include more pollution prevention technologies. Although we fully support and encourage pollution prevention projects and strategies, special care must be taken in evaluating a pollution prevention project for the PCP Exclusion. Pollution prevention projects tend to be dependent on site­ specific factors and lack an historical record of performance, which proves problematic in deciding whether they are environmentally beneficial when applied universally. We believe that both add­ on control devices and pollution prevention projects have equal chances of being presumed environmentally beneficial, but we have VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80236 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations more data and history with the add­ on control equipment, and this is why the list includes more of those types of pollution strategies. Pollution prevention projects can still qualify as environmentally beneficial PCPs, but they must be evaluated by the reviewing authority to confirm their environmental benefits. d. How are Control Technologies and Pollution Prevention Strategies Added to the Presumptively `` Environmentally Beneficial'' List? The proposal would have allowed the reviewing authority to add to the list of presumptively environmentally beneficial technologies, as long as it determined that a project had been `` demonstrated in practice'' and was comparable in effectiveness to the listed technologies on a pollutant­ specific basis. We will continue to allow new control technologies that are demonstrated in practice to be added to the list of presumed environmentally beneficial technologies. However, unlike the proposed PCP Exclusion, we will not require that non­ listed technologies be comparable in effectiveness on a pollutant­ specific basis with the emissions reduction efficiency of currently listed technologies in order to qualify as environmentally beneficial, since this is difficult to compare when different pollutants must be considered. Also, today's rule vests the EPA Administrator with the sole authority to approve non­ listed pollution strategies as presumptively environmentally beneficial. The reviewing authority may perform a case­ specific approval of a PCP Exclusion in which it would determine that a non­ listed technology is environmentally beneficial, but that determination only pertains to the particular case under evaluation and would not serve to presume that the technology is environmentally beneficial for subsequent applications. Through notice and comment rulemaking, we will maintain and update the list as we deem additional technologies to be environmentally beneficial or to remove from the list any PCP that we erroneously listed. Several commenters on the proposal suggest that we create a clearinghouse for newly added environmentally beneficial PCPs. We agree that additions to the approved PCP list need to be readily available to the public; however, since rulemaking will be used to add new PCPs to the approved list, no additional public notice will be necessary. e. How do I Calculate Emissions Increases? In order to calculate emissions increases for primary and collateral pollutants for the purpose of determining the environmental impact of the PCP, you must use the actual­ toprojected actual applicability test method for calculating the emissions increase. This test is discussed in section II of today's preamble, and is consistent with the remainder of today's rule revisions. f. How do you Perform the Emissions Calculation for Switches to a Less Potent Amount of ODS? We have determined that activities or projects undertaken to accommodate switching to an ODS with less potential for stratospheric ozone damage are presumptively environmentally beneficial, as long as the productive capacity of the equipment does not increase as a result of the activity or project. For determining your emissions before and after the change, you must perform a weighted comparison of the switch based on ozone depleting potential ( ODP), taken from 40 CFR part 82, and the past and projected future usage of each ODS. In cases where we have expressed a chemical's ODP in 40 CFR part 82 as a range, the most conservative value ( that is, the upper bound value) should be used. The replaced ODP­ weighted amount is then calculated by multiplying the baseline actual usage ( using the annualized average of any 24 consecutive months of usage within the past 10 years) by the ODP of the replaced ODS. The projected ODP­ weighted amount is computed by multiplying the projected future annual usage of the new substance by its ODP. The following example illustrates how to make these calculations in determining whether a switch to a different ODS is environmentally beneficial. Example: Source plans to replace solvents in its batch process line. Its current solvent, CFC 12, a chlorofluorocarbon ( CFC) with an ODP of 1.0, is emitted at 200 tpy. It will be substituted with a less potent solvent, a hydrochlorofluorocarbon ( HCFC) with an ODP of 0.02. As a result of this change, the straight mass emissions coming from the solvent will increase twofold due to the new process solvent having a higher vapor pressure than the old solvent. However, this substitution most likely would be viewed as environmentally beneficial, since the ODPweighted emissions would reveal a decreased risk in environmental harm. Specifically, the CFC 12 would be multiplied by its ODP of 1.0, resulting in 200 tpy for pre­ change ODPweighted emissions. In contrast, the 400 tpy of HCFC emissions would be multiplied by 0.02, giving it a post­ change, ODP­ weighted emission level of 8 tpy. The net effect is an emissions decrease of 192 tpy on an ODPweighted basis. g. Should Cross­ Media Impacts be Considered in the `` Environmentally Beneficial'' Demonstration? By definition, a PCP reduces emissions of air pollutants subject to regulation under the Act. Therefore, while the primary environmental benefit of the PCP would be to reduce air emissions, a secondary benefit could be reducing pollution in other media. However, these cross­ media tradeoffs are difficult to compare, so it is difficult to weigh their importance in appraising the overall environmental benefit of a PCP. We solicited comments in the proposal on how to compare crossmedia pollution, but we received no suggestions on how to design such a system. As a result, we have determined that it is inappropriate to consider nonair impacts when considering whether projects, activities, or work practices qualify for the PCP Exclusion. 3. Air Quality Impacts a. What is the `` Cause­ or­ Contribute Test''? Another criterion for qualification for all PCPs is that the emissions from the PCP cannot cause or contribute to a violation of any NAAQS or PSD increment, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM, and for which information is available to the general public. This has been called the `` cause­ or­ contribute test.'' We continue to believe that the PCP Exclusion must include such safeguards to ensure protection of the environment and public health. In the WEPCO PCP Exclusion, we said that the reviewing authority `` under certain circumstances'' may evaluate the air quality impact of a PCP. 57 FR 32321. Generally, these circumstances would include large secondary emissions increases in areas that are nonattainment, or marginally in attainment, for the pollutant in question. We anticipate, however, that such analyses would not normally be required, since collateral emissions increases from most relevant projects will be so small that additional modeling should not be required. Commenters from industry complain that determining whether there would be an adverse impact on an AQRV is too difficult and believe that the proposal is ambiguous in defining roles of FLMs and reviewing authorities. The intention of the statutory structure for preconstruction permit review in section 165( d) of the Act unambiguously is to protect against any adverse impact on AQRVs in Class I lands. Therefore, we continue to believe that any air VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 17: 13 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80237 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations quality assessment for a PCP should consider all relevant AQRVs in any Class I area that are identified by the FLM at the time you submit your notice or permit application for the project. For purposes of those projects on the list of projects presumptively qualifying for the PCP Exclusion, we are limiting the consideration of AQRVs to those that have already been identified by an FLM for the Federal Class I area. You should check with the National Park Service website and other public information to determine if the FLM has already identified an AQRV for a nearby Class I area. If you are required to obtain both approval from your reviewing authority and a permit before beginning actual construction of your project, then additional AQRVs may be identified by an FLM consistent with the procedures provided for in that permitting process. b. What is Necessary for the Air Quality Impacts Analysis? Reviewing authorities can require you to analyze your air quality impacts whenever they have reason to believe that: ( 1) the project will result in a significant emissions increase of any criteria pollutant over levels in the most recent analysis; and ( 2) such an increase would cause or contribute to a violation of any NAAQS or PSD increment or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. The analysis must contain sufficient data to satisfy the reviewing authority that the new levels of emissions will not cause or contribute to a violation of the NAAQS or PSD increment, or adversely impact an AQRV ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by an FLM and for which information is available to the general public. If the air quality analysis shows that a resulting violation is foreseeable, your project cannot receive the PCP Exclusion. Many industry commenters complain that the proposed air quality analysis and Class I provisions for the exclusion were overly burdensome and needed to be either eliminated or streamlined. We agree in part with this point, even though we strongly contend that there need to be safeguards to protect against misuse of the exclusion with projects that will not provide positive environmental results. Although today's final rule contains the core safeguard to prevent an adverse air quality impact, a modeling exercise is not necessarily warranted in all cases. While you are not required to notify the FLM of any Federal Class I area located near your facility as a prerequisite for proceeding with a PCP, you must determine whether any AQRVs have been identified in these areas. FLMs have identified AQRVs for many of the Federal Class I areas and made this information available on a dedicated web site ( http:// www2. nature. nps. gov). If no AQRVs have been identified for a particular Class I area, your demonstration is simply a statement that no AQRVs exist in Class I areas that your source has the potential to affect. Similarly, if there are AQRVs in nearby Federal Class I areas, but the pollutants associated with these AQRVS either will not be emitted by your facility or will not increase by a significant amount as a result of the PCP, then your demonstration should simply indicate the lack of any association between your PCP project and the known AQRVs. On the other hand, you should be prepared to conduct modeling with respect to any regulated NSR pollutant that your PCP will cause to increase by a significant amount when that pollutant is associated with a known AQRV in a nearby Federal Class I area. Oftentimes, a screening model may be used to estimate the ambient impacts of the increase from your facility. Special concern should be given in cases where an FLM has already identified adverse impacts for such AQRV. In such cases, you are expected to record and consider any information that the FLM has made available concerning the adverse effects, to help determine whether the pollutant impacts from your facility have the potential to cause further adverse impacts. If a reviewing authority, upon receiving your notification of using the PCP Exclusion, believes that an air quality impacts analysis is reasonably necessary, it is entitled to request more information from you, including additional local or regional modeling. c. How does the PCP Exclusion Apply to Projects With Collateral Pollutant Increases of Nonattainment Pollutants? The PCP Exclusion is available, regardless of an area's attainment status or its severity of nonattainment. Nonetheless, because increases in a nonattainment pollutant contribute to the existing nonattainment problem, you or the reviewing authority must offset with acceptable emissions reductions any significant emissions increase in a nonattainment pollutant resulting from a PCP. We are promulgating the PCP Exclusion consistent with our proposal's approach of requiring mitigation of any significant emissions increase of a nonattainment pollutant resulting from a PCP. Since less than significant collateral emissions increases ( for example, less than 40 tpy of VOC in a moderate ozone nonattainment area) do not trigger major NSR, such mitigation requirements are not necessary for the PCP Exclusion when the increase of the nonattainment pollutant will be below the applicable significant level. Be aware, however, that a less than significant emissions increase may be subject to a State's minor NSR requirements. 4. Miscellaneous a. Can you Generate ERCs From Your PCP­ Excluded Project? The proposal would have allowed certain projects approved for the PCP Exclusion to use their primary pollutant( s) emissions reductions as NSR offsets or netting credits. We included in the proposed rule a specialized `` environmentally beneficial'' test that would apply to PCPs that generate ERCs. Some commenters support allowing ERCs and creating more flexibility to use them. However, other commenters recommend that EPA avoid complicating the PCP Exclusion by factoring emissions trading credits with the exclusion. These commenters claim that the parceling out of the appropriate reductions for emissions credits and for the newly installed PCP would take an enormous amount of time, and cause problems with tracking emissions reductions and using the credits. We no longer believe it would be prudent to allow PCPs to generate netting credits or offsets for the emissions reductions used to initially qualify the project for the PCP Exclusion, in light of the issues of increased complexity that the commenters raise. But perhaps more importantly, we feel that the emissions reductions initially achieved by the PCP are integral to the `` environmentally beneficial'' demonstration required in order for the PCP to qualify for the exclusion. The emissions reductions are traded, in effect, for the significant emissions increase of the collateral pollutants and for the benefits of being excluded from the major NSR permitting requirements. To then re­ use the reductions would weaken the PCP Exclusion and would not ensure appropriate environmental protection. Consequently, you cannot use emissions reductions that initially qualified a project for the PCP Exclusion as netting credits or offsets. However, you are allowed to continue to use these reductions to generate allowances for purposes of complying with the title IV Acid Rain program. In VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80238 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations 1992, the PCP Exclusion was originally designed for use by EUSGUs because we did not envision that Congress intended for the NSR program to apply to projects undertaken to comply with title IV. Nothing in today's proposal is intended to change that design. Moreover, once you qualify for the PCP Exclusion, you can apply for ERCs if you change your process conditions in such a way that further reduces emissions. For example, consider that you have an add­ on control technology which receives a PCP Exclusion that, at full operation, allows the source to increase its emissions of a specific collateral pollutant and emit 100 tpy of a pollutant ( either a targeted pollutant or a collateral pollutant). If you later decide to take an hours­ of­ operation limit for your process line and/ or control technology that reduces your emissions of that pollutant to 75 tpy, then this 25 tpy reduction in emissions can be used as ERCs if deemed acceptable in all other respects by your reviewing authority. b. Why Are We Deleting the `` Primary Purpose'' test? The `` primary purpose'' test was proposed as an initial screening mechanism for reviewing authorities to screen out inappropriate projects and to streamline the approval process. This was designed to help reviewing authorities avoid dedicating unnecessary resources to non­ qualifying projects. Furthermore, we recognized that all of the listed PCPs have a primary purpose of reducing air pollution, so it followed logically that any other PCP should have the same primary purpose. However, we received comments from both industry and a State trade association stating that many activities and projects have multiple purposes in addition to reducing emissions, and they encourage EPA not to focus on the primary purpose of a project, but rather on the project's net environmental benefit, in considering it for a PCP Exclusion. A `` primary purpose'' requirement would disqualify projects that may be environmentally beneficial but happen to not have pollution control as their primary purpose. Further, one commenter stated that by focusing on the intent of the project rather than its end result, administrative agencies will unnecessarily be forced to devote scarce resources to making these determinations. We concur with these comments and have determined that this test is potentially unnecessarily restrictive. Our primary objective in allowing for a PCP Exclusion is to offer NSR relief for those projects that create a net environmental benefit, and thus we should not concern ourselves with a source's motivation for undertaking its project. Therefore, by today's rule revisions, even if a project's primary purpose is not to reduce emissions, it can still qualify for the PCP Exclusion if it meets the `` environmentally beneficial'' and air quality tests set forth in today's regulations. c. How Do the Listed PCP Technologies Compare to BACT or LAER Determinations? The list of presumed environmentally beneficial technologies contains several control strategies that do not qualify as BACT or LAER. For example, installing low­ NOX burners on large­ sized turbines would rarely constitute an acceptable BACT level. However, these projects are presumed environmentally beneficial and are eligible for the PCP Exclusion from major NSR because these controls are cleaner than the existing equipment is without the controls. In addition, the PCP Exclusion only applies to sources that are installing PCPs, and not to the installation of new emissions units or changes that increase the capacity of the unit, both of which would be potentially subject to BACT or LAER. We reiterate, however, that merely because a control technology is listed as environmentally beneficial does not also imply that the technology is equivalent to BACT or LAER, and you should not rely on any such implication as a presumptive BACT or LAER determination. d. Is the Intent of the PCP Exclusion to Allow Collateral Pollutant Emissions to go Uncontrolled? To qualify for the PCP Exclusion, you must minimize emissions of collateral pollutants within the physical configuration and operational standards usually associated with the emissions control device or strategy. This typically occurs by inherent design of the control device that causes them. In most cases, no additional control requirements will be necessary. e. What Does `` Demonstrated in Practice'' Mean? Representatives from industry comment that we should ease restrictions that require new add­ on technologies to be demonstrated in practice. We are continuing to require that new technologies be demonstrated in practice before being added to the list, in part because this is an important element in a showing that the candidate technology is environmentally sound. However, we have expanded the meaning of `` demonstrated in practice'' to include technologies demonstrated outside of the United States. f. How Can the Public Participate in the PCP Exclusion Decision for Your Project? By these rule revisions, we are not requiring any review of your PCP by the public or your reviewing authority prior to enabling the use of the exclusion. Nonetheless, existing State regulations for minor NSR will continue to apply to projects that qualify for the PCP Exclusion and are not otherwise excluded under the State program. Minor NSR programs are designed to consider the impact these increases could have on air quality, including whether local conditions justify rebutting the presumption that a listed project is environmentally beneficial. Nothing in this rule voids or otherwise creates an exclusion from any otherwise applicable minor NSR preconstruction review requirement in any SIP that has been approved pursuant to section 110( a)( 2)( C) of the Act and 40 CFR 51.160 through 51.164. The minor NSR permits may afford the public an opportunity to review and comment on the use of the PCP Exclusion for a specific project. See § § 51.160 and 51.161. Furthermore, to undertake a PCP Exclusion, you could use the title V permit revision process to officially effect the PCP Exclusion. This would enable the public to review the PCP determination at that time. Thus, the process for implementing a PCP Exclusion would be similar to the other exemptions within NSR ( routine maintenance, change in ownership, etc.) whereby you are empowered to make the proper decision based on the facts of the case and the rule requirements. C. Legal Basis for PCP In 1992, we revised the NSR regulations to exclude PCPs at existing EUSGUs. See 57 FR 32314 ( July 21, 1992), amending § § 51.165( a)( 1)( v)( C)( 8), 51.166( b)( 2)( iii)( h), and 52.21( b)( 2)( iii)( h). There, we stated that we believed `` that Congress did not intend that PCPs be considered the type of activity that should trigger NSR.'' 57 FR 32319. Although the 1992 rulemaking applied only to EUSGUs, we believe that Congress's intention holds true for other industry sectors as well. Congress could not have intended to require that, and the Act should not be construed such that, physical or operational changes undertaken to reduce emissions undergo NSR. Therefore, in today's action, we are revising the PCP Exclusion and VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80239 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations removing the conditions limiting it to EUSGUs. In the event that a PCP results in a significant emissions increase of a different pollutant, the reviewing authority may require an analysis of air quality impacts which would serve the same function as an air quality impacts analysis conducted as part of NSR permitting. Providing an exclusion for PCPs enables facilities to reduce emissions without having to wait for a major NSR permit to be issued. We believe that this result is consistent with the objectives of the NSR provisions in the CAA. Thus, we are revising our rules to remove disincentives to pollution control and pollution prevention projects to the extent allowed under the CAA. D. Implementation 1. How Do You Apply For and Receive a PCP Exclusion? The process for obtaining a PCP Exclusion basically breaks down into two separate scenarios, depending on whether your proposed project is `` listed'' or `` non­ listed'' as environmentally beneficial. Both processes are presented below. a. What Is the Process You Must Follow for Projects Involving Listed PCPs? Before you begin actual construction on your PCP, you must submit a notice to your reviewing authority that includes the following information ( and depending on your reviewing authority's requirements, this information may be submitted with a part 70, part 71 or other SIP­ approved permit application such as a minor NSR permit application): ( 1) A description of project; ( 2) an analysis of the environmentally beneficial nature of the PCP, including a projection of emissions increases and decreases ( speciated, using an appropriate emissions test for the emissions unit); and ( 3) a demonstration that the project will not have an adverse air quality impact. You may begin construction on the PCP immediately upon submitting your notice to the reviewing authority. However, if your reviewing authority determines that the source does not qualify for a PCP Exclusion, you may be subject to a delay in the project or an order to not undertake the project. b. What Is the Process You Must Follow for Projects Involving Non­ Listed PCPs? For projects not listed in Table 2, on a case­ by­ case basis your reviewing authority must consider the net environmental benefit of a non­ listed project and, within a reasonable amount of time, act upon your request for the exclusion for a specific application. You must receive this approval from your reviewing authority before beginning actual construction of the PCP. Your reviewing authority will provide an opportunity for public review and comment prior to granting its approval for the PCP. Your application for case­ specific approval of a PCP Exclusion should have the same information as required above for a notice to use a listed technology. The only difference between the two processes is that the use of a listed technology allows you to commence construction on your PCP immediately after submitting your notice to the reviewing authority, whereas the use of a non­ listed technology requires you to first submit an application to your reviewing authority and obtain its approval prior to construction of your PCP. 2. What Process Will We Follow To Add New Projects to the List of Environmentally Beneficial PCPs? We will use notice and comment rulemaking procedures to add new projects to the list of PCPs that are presumed to be environmentally beneficial. We may take this action on our own initiative or you may petition us, if you believe there is a project that should be added to the list. If you submit a petition to us requesting that a non­ listed air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention or work practices) be determined environmentally beneficial and presumptively qualified for the PCP Exclusion, you should describe the anticipated emissions consequence of installing the PCP, both for primary and collateral pollutants. We will review your submittal within a reasonable amount of time. If we believe that the project should be added to the list, we will amend the list of approved PCPs through rulemaking. Once the rule has been amended, you may use a newly listed PCP if you proceed in accordance with the process for implementing the PCP Exclusion for listed PCPs. ( See section VI. D. 1. a.) 3. What Are Our Operational Expectations for an Excluded PCP? By this rule, we are creating a general duty for all sources approved to use a PCP Exclusion. This general duty clause requires you to operate the PCP in a manner consistent with reasonable engineering practices and with the basic applicability requirements for the exclusion ( i. e., being environmentally beneficial and having no adverse air quality impacts). This means that you have a legal responsibility to operate in a manner that is consistent with your analysis of the environmental benefits and air quality impacts analysis, and that you will minimize collateral pollutant increases within the physical configuration and operational standards usually associated with the emissions control device or strategy. 4. What Are the Implications of Not Complying With the PCP Exclusion Process? The PCP Exclusion is a mechanism for bypassing the major NSR permitting requirements. If you do not comply with the steps necessary to qualify for the PCP Exclusion under the terms of the PCP provisions, you can become subject to major NSR. VII. Listed Hazardous Air Pollutants The 1990 Amendments to the CAA at section 112( b)( 6) exempted HAP listed under section 112( b)( 1) from the PSD requirements in part C. In our 1996 Federal Register Notice, we proposed changes to the regulations at § § 51.166 and 52.21 to implement this exemption. Specifically, we proposed the following. The HAP listed in section 112( b)( 1), as well as any pollutant that may be added to the list, are excluded from the PSD provisions of part C. These HAP include arsenic, asbestos, benzene, beryllium, mercury, radionuclides, and vinyl chloride, all of which were previously regulated under the PSD rules. This exemption applies to the provisions for major stationary sources in § § 51.166( b)( 2) and 52.21( b)( 2), the significant levels in § § 51.166( b)( 23)( i) and 52.21( b)( 23)( i), and the significant monitoring concentrations in § § 51.166( i)( 8) and 52.21( i)( 8). Pollutants listed in regulations pursuant to section 112( r)( 1), Accidental Release, are not excluded from the PSD provisions of part C. Any HAP listed in section 112( b)( 1) that are regulated as constituents or precursors of a more general pollutant listed under section 108 are still subject to PSD, despite the exemption in section 112( b)( 6). If a pollutant is removed from the list under the provisions of section 112( b)( 3) of the Act, that pollutant would be subject to the applicable PSD requirements of part C if it is otherwise regulated under the Act. Pollutants regulated under the Act and not on the list of HAP, such as fluorides, TRS compounds, and sulfuric acid mist, continue to be regulated under PSD. Public commenters generally agree that our proposal reflects the statutory requirements. Therefore, today we are VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 17: 13 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80240 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations taking final action to promulgate these proposed provisions at § § 51.166( b)( 23)( i), 51.166( i)( 8), 52.21( b)( 23)( i), and 52.21( i)( 8). As today's regulations provide, the following pollutants currently regulated under the Act are subject to Federal PSD review and permitting requirements. CO NOX SO2 PM and particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter ( PM 10) Ozone ( VOC) Lead ( Pb) ( elemental) Fluorides ( excluding hydrogen fluoride) Sulfuric acid mist H2S TRS compounds ( including H2S) CFCs 11, 12, 112, 114, 115 Halons 1211, 1301, 2402 Municipal Waste Combustor ( MWC) acid gases, MWC metals, and MWC organics ODS regulated under title VI The PSD program applies automatically to newly regulated NSR pollutants, which would include final promulgation of an NSPS applicable to a previously unregulated pollutant. As we indicated in our proposal package, CAA section 112( b)( 7) states that elemental Pb ( the named chemical) may not be listed by the Administrator as a HAP under section 112( b)( 1). Therefore, because section 112( b)( 6) exempts only the pollutants listed in section 112, elemental Pb emissions are not exempt from the Federal PSD requirements. Elemental Pb continues to be a criteria pollutant subject to the Pb NAAQS and other requirements of the Act. As proposed, we are also continuing to maintain that the reference to Pb in the regulations regarding the significant levels and significant monitoring concentrations covers the Pb portion of Pb compounds. See § § 51.166( b)( 23), 51.166( i)( 8), 52.21( b)( 23), and 52.21( i)( 8). Otherwise, the word elemental might imply that only Pb that is not part of a Pb compound is covered. One commenter requests that we amend the regulations to include a definition of pollutants regulated under the Act. We agree with the commenter that such a provision would clarify which pollutants are covered under the PSD program. Moreover, the nonattainment NSR rules at § 51.165 would also benefit from this clarity. Therefore, today's final regulations include a definition for regulated NSR pollutant. This new definition replaces the terminology `` pollutants regulated under the Act.'' The term `` Regulated NSR pollutant'' includes the following pollutants. NOX or any VOC Any pollutant for which a NAAQS has been promulgated Any pollutant that is subject to any standard promulgated under section 111 of the Act Any Class I or II substance subject to a standard promulgated under or established by title VI of the Act. The new definition excludes HAPs listed in section 112 of the Act ( including any pollutants that may be added to the list pursuant to section 112( b)( 2) of the Act). However, when any pollutant listed under section 112 of the Act is also a constituent or precursor of a more general pollutant that is regulated under section 108 of the Act, that listed pollutant may be regulated under NSR but only as part of regulation of the general pollutant. As we indicated in our proposal, State and local agencies with an approved PSD program may continue to regulate the HAP now exempted from Federal PSD by section 112( b)( 6) if their PSD regulations provide an independent basis to do so. These State and local rules remain in effect unless they are revised to provide similar exemptions. Such provisions that are part of the SIP are federally enforceable. Section 112( q) retains existing NESHAP regulations by specifying that any standard under section 112 in effect before the enactment of the 1990 Amendments remains in force. Therefore, the requirements of § § 61.05 to 61.08, including preconstruction permitting requirements for new and modified sources subject to existing NESHAP regulations, are still applicable. Pollutants listed under section 112( r) are not included in the definition of regulated NSR pollutant. As we proposed, substances regulated under section 112( r) may still be subject to PSD if they are regulated under other provisions of the Act. For example, even though H2S is listed under section 112( r), it is still regulated under the Federal PSD provisions because it is regulated under the NSPS program in section 111. This means that the listing of a substance under section 112( r) does not exclude the substance from the Federal PSD provisions; the PSD provisions apply if the substance is otherwise regulated under the Act. We are not taking final action on ambient impact concentrations or maximum allowable increases in pollutant concentrations as proposed in § 51.166( b)( 23)( iv) and ( v) and § 52.21( b)( 23)( iv) and ( v). Although these provisions are included in the definition of significant, they do not relate to the new provisions for HAP. Instead, they concern Class I issues, which we have not taken final action on. VIII. Effective Date for Today's Requirements As discussed above, today we are changing the existing NSR requirements in five ways. Providing a new method for determining baseline actual emissions Adopting the actual­ to­ projectedactual methodology for determining whether a major modification has occurred Allowing major stationary sources to comply with PALs to avoid having a significant emissions increase that triggers the requirements of the major NSR program Providing new applicability provisions for emissions units that are designated Clean Units Excluding PCPs from the definition of `` physical change or change in the method of operation'' Today's rules codify our longstanding policy for calculating the baseline actual emissions for EUSGUs, which is any consecutive 2 years in the past 5 years, or another more representative period. In today's final rules we are also including a new section that outlines how a major modification is determined under the various major NSR applicability options and clarifies where you will find the provisions in our revised rules. All of these changes will take effect in the Federal PSD program ( codified at § 52.21) on March 3, 2003. This means that these rules will apply on March 3, 2003, in any area without an approved PSD program, for which we are the reviewing authority, or for which we have delegated our authority to issue permits to a State or local reviewing authority. To be approvable under the SIP, State and local agency programs implementing part C ( PSD permit program in § 51.166) or part D ( nonattainment NSR permit program in § 51.165) must include today's changes as minimum program elements. State and local agencies should assure that any program changes under § § 51.165 and 51.166 are consistently accounted for in other SIP planning measures. State and local agencies must adopt and submit revisions to their part 51 permitting programs implementing these minimum program elements no later than January 2, 2006. That is, for both nonattainment and attainment VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80241 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations areas, the SIP revisions must be adopted and submitted within 3 years from today. The Act does not specify a date for submission of SIPs when we revise the PSD and NSR rules. We believe it is appropriate to establish a date analogous to the date for submission of new SIPs when a NAAQS is promulgated or revised. Under section 110( a)( 1) of the Act, as amended in 1990, that date is 3 years from promulgation or revision of the NAAQS. Accordingly, we have established 3 years from today's revisions as the required date for submission of conforming SIP revisions. We have made conforming changes to the PSD regulations at § 51.166( a)( 6)( i) to indicate that State and local agencies must adopt and submit plan revisions within 3 years after new amendments are published in the Federal Register. In our 1996 proposed rule, we solicited comment on a new approach for implementing the applicabilityrelated NSR improvements ( i. e., PALs, the Clean Unit provision, the PCP Exclusion, and provisions related to measuring emissions increases). We noted that the Agency in the past `` has essentially required States to follow a single applicability methodology,'' but that `` States could, of course, have a more stringent approach.'' 61 FR 38253. Instead of following this normal course, we proposed to establish the new applicability provisions as a `` menu'' of options. Under this approach, we would have allowed States to adopt into their NSR programs all, some, or none of the new provisions. In today's final rule, we have decided not to implement the menu approach. We have opted instead to retain our longstanding approach of incorporating all of the new provisions into our `` base'' NSR program requirements, which are set forth in § § 51.165, 51.166, and 52.24. The same provisions will be included in § 52.21, our own PSD permitting program. Our decision is based primarily on our belief that the NSR program will work better as a practical matter and will produce better environmental results if all five of the new applicability provisions are adopted and implemented. We and our stakeholders invested unprecedented amounts of time, energy, and resources in deciding how best to improve the NSR program. After well over a decade of sustained effort, we believe that we have found effective solutions to many of the program's most intractable problems. We hope that making the new provisions part of our base programs will provide incentive for these provisions to be adopted on a widespread basis. Notably, even without the menu approach, State and local jurisdictions have significant freedom to customize their NSR programs. Ever since our current NSR regulations were adopted in 1980, we have taken the position that States may meet the requirements of part 51 `` with different but equivalent regulations.'' 45 FR 52676. Several States have, indeed, implemented programs that work every bit as well as our own base programs, yet depart substantially from the basic framework established in our rules. A good example is Oregon, where the SIPapproved program requires all major sources to obtain plantwide permits not unlike the PALs that we are finalizing today. Oregon's program plainly illustrates that we have not implemented our base programs with a one­ size­ fits­ all mentality and certainly do not have the goal of `` preempting'' State creativity or innovation. Perhaps the biggest potential disadvantages to implementing the new applicability provisions as part of our base programs are the time and effort required to revise existing State programs and to have the revised programs approved as part of the SIP. For States that choose to adopt all of the new applicability provisions, we expect that the SIP approval process will be expeditious. Of course, the review and approval process will be more complicated for States that choose to adopt a program that differs from our base programs. For example, if a State decides it does not want to implement any of the new applicability provisions, that State will need to show that its existing program is at least as stringent as our revised base program. It would be impossible for us to plan ahead for all of the possible variations that States might ultimately elect to pursue. We will, however, reach out to relevant stakeholders immediately after publication of these rules and try to develop streamlined methods for addressing common questions that may arise during the SIP approval process. IX. Administrative Requirements A. Executive Order 12866 Regulatory Planning and Review Under Executive Order 12866 ( 58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993), the Agency must determine whether the regulatory action is `` significant'' and therefore subject to OMB review and the requirements of the Executive Order. The Order defines `` significant regulatory action'' as one that is likely to result in a rule that may: ( 1) Have an annual effect on the economy of $ 100 million or more or adversely affect in a material way the economy, a sector of the economy, productivity, competition, jobs, the environment, public health or safety, or State, local, or tribal governments or communities; ( 2) Create a serious inconsistency or otherwise interfere with an action taken or planned by another agency; ( 3) Materially alter the budgetary impact of entitlements, grants, user fees, or loan programs, or the rights and obligations of recipients thereof; or ( 4) Raise novel legal or policy issues arising out of legal mandates, the President's priorities, or the principles set forth in the Executive Order. Pursuant to the terms of Executive Order 12866, OMB has notified us that it considers this rule a `` significant regulatory action.'' As such, this action was submitted to OMB for review. B. Executive Order 13132 Federalism Executive Order 13132, entitled `` Federalism'' ( 64 FR 43255, August 10, 1999), requires EPA to develop an accountable process to ensure `` meaningful and timely input by State and local officials in the development of regulatory policies that have federalism implications.'' `` Policies that have federalism implications'' is defined in the Executive Order to include regulations that have `` substantial direct effects on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.'' This final rule does not have federalism implications. It will not have substantial direct effects on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government, as specified in Executive Order 13132. While this final rule will result in some expenditures by the States, we expect those expenditures to be limited to $ 331,250 per year. This figure includes the small increase in the burden imposed upon reviewing authorities in order for them to revise the State's SIP. However, these revisions provide greater operational flexibility to sources permitted by the States, which will in turn reduce the overall burden of the program on State and local authorities by reducing the number of required permit modifications. Thus, Executive Order 13132 does not apply to this rule. Nevertheless, in the spirit of Executive Order 13132, and consistent with EPA policy to promote communications between EPA and State and local governments, we specifically VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80242 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations solicited comment on the proposed rule from State and local officials. C. Executive Order 13175 Consultation and Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments Executive Order 13175, entitled `` Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments'' ( 65 FR 67249, November 9, 2000), requires EPA to develop an accountable process to ensure `` meaningful and timely input by tribal officials in the development of regulatory policies that have tribal implications.'' We believe that this final rule does not have tribal implications as specified in Executive Order 13175. Thus, Executive Order 13175 does not apply to this rule. EPA began considering potential revisions to the NSR rules in the early 1990' s and proposed changes in 1996. The purpose of today's final rule is to add greater flexibility to the existing major NSR regulations. These changes will benefit both reviewing authorities and the regulated community by providing increased certainty as to when the requirements apply, and by providing alternative ways to comply with the requirements. Taken as a whole, today's final rule should result in no added burden or compliance costs and should not substantially change the level of environmental performance achieved under the previous rules. We anticipate that initially these changes will result in a small increase in the burden imposed upon reviewing authorities in order for them to be included in the State's SIP, as well as other small increases in burden discussed under `` Paperwork Reduction Act.'' Nevertheless, these revisions will ultimately provide greater operational flexibility to sources permitted by the States, which will in turn reduce the overall burden of the program on State and local authorities by reducing the number of required permit modifications. In comparison, no tribal government currently has an approved tribal implementation plan ( TIP) under the CAA to implement the NSR program. The Federal government is currently the NSR reviewing authority in Indian country, thus tribal governments should not experience added burden, nor should their laws be affected with respect to implementation of this rule. Additionally, although major stationary sources affected by today's final rule could be located in or near Indian country and/ or be owned or operated by tribal governments, such sources would not incur additional costs or compliance burdens as a result of this rule. Instead, the only effect on such sources should be the benefit of the added certainty and flexibility provided by the rule. We recognize the importance of including tribal consultation as part of the rulemaking process. Although we did not include specific consultation with tribal officials as part of our outreach process on this final rule, which was developed largely prior to issuance of Executive Order 13175 and which does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 13175, we will continue to consult with tribes on future rulemakings to assess and address tribal implications, and will work with tribes interested in seeking TIP approval to implement the NSR program to ensure consistency of tribal plans with this rule. D. Executive Order 13045 Protection of Children From Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks Executive Order 13045, entitled `` Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks'' ( 62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997), applies to any rule that: ( 1) Is determined to be `` economically significant'' as defined under Executive Order 12866; and ( 2) concerns an environmental health or safety risk that EPA has reason to believe may have a disproportionate effect on children. If the regulatory action meets both criteria, the Agency must evaluate the environmental health or safety effects of the planned rule on children, and explain why the planned regulation is preferable to other potentially effective and reasonably feasible alternatives considered by the Agency. This final rule is not subject to the Executive Order because it is not economically significant as defined in Executive Order 12866, and because the Agency does not have reason to believe the environmental health or safety risks addressed by this action present a disproportionate risk to children because we believe that this package as a whole will result in equal or better environmental protection than currently provided by the existing regulations, and do so in a more streamlined and effective manner. E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 ( UMRA), Pub. L. 104 4, establishes requirements for Federal agencies to assess the effects of their regulatory actions on State, local, and tribal governments and the private sector. Under section 202 of the UMRA, EPA generally must prepare a written statement, including a cost­ benefit analysis, for proposed and final rules with `` Federal mandates'' that may result in expenditures to State, local, and tribal governments, in the aggregate, or to the private sector, of $ 100 million or more in any 1 year. Before promulgating an EPA rule for which a written statement is needed, section 205 of the UMRA generally requires EPA to identify and consider a reasonable number of regulatory alternatives and adopt the least costly, most cost effective or least burdensome alternative that achieves the objectives of the rule. The provisions of section 205 do not apply when they are inconsistent with applicable law. Moreover, section 205 allows EPA to adopt an alternative other than the least costly, most cost effective or least burdensome alternative if the Administrator publishes with the final rule an explanation as to why that alternative was not adopted. Before EPA establishes any regulatory requirements that may significantly or uniquely affect small governments, including tribal governments, it must have developed under section 203 of the UMRA a small government agency plan. The plan must provide for notifying potentially affected small governments, enabling officials of affected small governments to have meaningful and timely input in the development of EPA regulatory proposals with significant Federal intergovernmental mandates, and informing, educating, and advising small governments on compliance with the regulatory requirements. We have determined that this rule does not contain a Federal mandate that may result in expenditures of $ 100 million or more for State, local, and tribal governments, in the aggregate, or the private sector in any 1 year. Although initially these changes are expected to result in a small increase in the burden imposed upon reviewing authorities in order for them to be included in the State's SIP, as well as other small increases in burden discussed under `` Paperwork Reduction Act,'' these revisions will ultimately provide greater operational flexibility to sources permitted by the States, which will in turn reduce the overall burden of the program on State and local authorities by reducing the number of required permit modifications. In addition, we believe the rule changes will actually reduce the regulatory burden associated with the major NSR program by improving the operational flexibility of owners and operators, improving the clarity of requirements, and providing alternatives that sources may take advantage of to further improve their operational flexibility. Thus, today's rule is not subject to the requirements of sections 202 and 205 of the UMRA. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80243 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations For the same reasons stated above, we have determined that this rule contains no regulatory requirements that might significantly or uniquely affect small governments. Thus, today's rule is not subject to the requirements of section 203 of the UMRA. F. Regulatory Flexibility Analysis EPA has determined that it is not necessary to prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis in connection with this final rule. EPA has also determined that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. For purposes of assessing the impacts of today's rule on small entities, small entity is defined as: ( 1) Any small business employing fewer than 500 employees; ( 2) a small governmental jurisdiction that is a government of a city, county, town, school district, or special district with a population of less than 50,000; or ( 3) a small organization that is any not­ forprofit enterprise that is independently owned and operated and is not dominant in its field. After considering the economic impacts of today's final rule on small entities, we have concluded that this action will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. In determining whether a rule has a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, the impact of concern is any significant adverse economic impact on small entities, since the primary purpose of the regulatory flexibility analyses is to identify and address regulatory alternatives `` which minimize any significant economic impact of the proposed rule on small entities.'' 5 U. S. C. 603 and 604. Thus, an agency may conclude that a rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities if the rule relieves regulatory burden, or otherwise has a positive economic effect, on all of the small entities subject to the rule. A Regulatory Flexibility Act Screening Analysis ( RFASA), developed as part of a 1994 draft Regulatory Impact Analysis ( RIA) and incorporated into the September 1995 ICR renewal analysis, showed that the changes to the NSR program due to the 1990 CAA Amendments would not have an adverse impact on small entities. This analysis encompassed the entire universe of applicable major sources that were likely to also be small businesses ( approximately 50 `` small business'' major sources). Because the administrative burden of the NSR program is the primary source of the NSR program's regulatory costs, the analysis estimated a negligible `` cost to sales'' ( regulatory cost divided by the business category mean revenue) ratio for this source group. Currently, and as reported in the current ICR, there is no economic basis for a different conclusion. We believe these rule changes will reduce the regulatory burden associated with the major NSR program for all sources, including all small businesses, by improving the operational flexibility of owners and operators, improving the clarity of requirements, and providing alternatives that sources may take advantage of to further improve their operational flexibility. As a result, the program changes provided in the final rule are not expected to result in any increases in expenditure by any small entity. We have therefore concluded that today's final rule will relieve regulatory burden for all small entities. G. Paperwork Reduction Act The information collection requirements in this rule will be contained in two different Information Collection Requests ( ICRs). The Office of Management and Budget ( OMB) has approved the information collection requirements contained under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, 44 U. S. C. 3501 et seq. and has assigned OMB control number 2060 0003 ( ICR 1230.10). The EPA prepared an ICR document ( ICR No. 1230.10) extending the approval of the ICR for the promulgated NSR regulations on March 30, 2001. On October 29, 2001, OMB approved EPA's request for extension for 3 years until October 31, 2004. The OMB number for this approval is 2060 0003. In addition to the existing ICR, the information collection requirements in this final rule have been submitted for approval to OMB under the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act, 44 U. S. C. 3501 et seq. An ICR document has been prepared by EPA ( ICR No. 2074.01), and a copy may be obtained from Susan Auby, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Environmental Information, Collection Strategies Division ( 2822T), 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20460 0001, by e­ mail at auby. susan@ epa. gov, or by calling ( 202) 566 1672. A copy may also be downloaded off the Internet at http:// www. epa. gov/ icr. The information requirements included in ICR No. 2074.01 are not effective until OMB approves them. The information that ICR No. 2074.01 covers is required for the submittal of a complete permit application for the construction or modification of all major new stationary sources of pollutants in attainment and nonattainment areas, as well as for applicable minor stationary sources of pollutants. This information collection is necessary for the proper performance of EPA's functions, has practical utility, and is not unnecessarily duplicative of information we otherwise can reasonably access. We have reduced, to the extent practicable and appropriate, the burden on persons providing the information to or for EPA. According to ICR No. 2074.01, as a result of the rule changes, the total 3­ year burden change of the revised collection is estimated at about 219,741 hours at a total cost of $ 7.7 million. The annual burden change to industry is about 64,287 hours at a cost of $ 2.2 million. The annual burden change to reviewing agencies is about 8,960 hours at a cost of $ 331,520. The total annual respondent change is 73,247 hours for a total respondent change in cost of $ 2.6 million. These costs changes are based upon 62 PSD and 123 NSR non­ utility sources ( 185 total); and 85 PSD and 169 NSR ( 254 total) sources, including utilities. For the number of respondent reviewing authorities, the analysis uses the 112 reviewing authorities count used by other permitting ICRs for the one­ time tasks ( for example, SIP revisions) and the appropriate source count for individual permit­ related items ( for example, attending preapplication meetings with the source). There is only one Federal source listed in the ICR. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, install, and utilize technology and systems for the purpose of responding to the information collection; adjust existing ways to comply with any previously applicable instructions and requirements; train personnel to respond to a collection of information; search existing data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and transmit or otherwise disclose the information. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's regulations are listed in 40 CFR part 9 and 48 CFR chapter 15. We will continue to present OMB control numbers in a consolidated table format to be codified in 40 CFR part 9 VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80244 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations of the Agency's regulations, and in each CFR volume containing EPA regulations. The table lists the section numbers with reporting and recordkeeping requirements, and the current OMB control numbers. This listing of the OMB control numbers and their subsequent codification in the CFR satisfy the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act ( 44 U. S. C. 3501 et seq.) and OMB's implementing regulations at 5 CFR part 1320. H. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act Section 12( d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 ( NTTAA), Pub. L. 104 113, 12( d) ( 15 U. S. C. 272 note) directs EPA to use voluntary consensus standards in its regulatory activities unless to do so would be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical standards ( for example, materials specifications, test methods, sampling procedures, and business practices) that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies. The NTTAA directs EPA to provide Congress, through OMB, explanations when the Agency decides not to use available and applicable voluntary consensus standards. This action does not involve technical standards. This final rule does not create new requirements but, rather, revises an existing permitting program by providing a series of program options that affected facilities may choose to adopt. These options will reduce the regulatory burden associated with the major NSR program by improving the operational flexibility of owners and operators, improving the clarity of requirements, and providing alternatives that sources may take advantage of to further improve their operational flexibility. Therefore, EPA did not consider the use of any voluntary consensus standards. I. Congressional Review Act The Congressional Review Act, 5 U. S. C. 801 et seq., as added by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, generally provides that before a rule may take effect, the agency promulgating the rule must submit a rule report, which includes a copy of the rule, to each House of the Congress and to the Comptroller General of the United States. EPA submitted a report containing this rule and other required information to the U. S. Senate, the U. S. House of Representatives, and the Comptroller General of the United States prior to publication of the rule in the Federal Register. A major rule cannot take effect until 60 days after it is published in the Federal Register. This action is not a `` major rule'' as defined by 5 U. S. C. 804( 2). Nonetheless, the Agency has decided to provide an effective date that is 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. This rule will be effective March 3, 2003. J. Executive Order 13211 Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use This rule is not a `` significant energy action'' as defined in Executive Order 13211, `` Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use'' ( 66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001) because it is not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy. Today's rule improves the ability of sources to undertake pollution prevention or energy efficiency projects, switch to less polluting fuels or raw materials, maintain the reliability of production facilities, and effectively utilize and improve existing capacity. The rule also includes a number of provisions to streamline administrative and permitting processes so that facilities can quickly accommodate changes in supply and demand. The regulations provide several alternatives that are specifically designed to reduce administrative burden for sources that use pollution prevention or energy efficient projects. X. Statutory Authority The statutory authority for this action is provided by sections 101, 112, 114, 116, and 301 of the Act as amended ( 42 U. S. C. 7401, 7412, 7414, 7416, and 7601). This rulemaking is also subject to section 307( d) of the Act ( 42 U. S. C. 7407( d)). XI. Judicial Review Under section 307( b)( 1) of the Act, judicial review of this final rule is available only by the filing of a petition for review in the U. S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit by March 3, 2003. Any such judicial review is limited to only those objections that are raised with reasonable specificity in timely comments. Under section 307( b)( 2) of the Act, the requirements that are the subject of this final rule may not be challenged later in civil or criminal proceedings brought by us to enforce these requirements. List of Subjects 40 CFR Part 51 Environmental protection, Administrative practices and procedures, Air pollution control, BACT, Baseline emissions, Carbon monoxide, Clean Units, Hydrocarbons, Intergovernmental relations, LAER, Lead, Major modifications, Nitrogen oxides, Ozone, Particular matter, Plantwide applicability limitations, Pollution control projects, Sulfur oxides. 40 CFR Part 52 Environmental protection, Administrative practices and procedures, Air pollution control, BACT, Baseline emissions, Carbon monoxide, Clean Units, Hydrocarbons, Intergovernmental relations, LAER, Lead, Major modifications, Nitrogen oxides, Ozone, Particulate matter, Plantwide applicability limitations, Pollution control projects, Sulfur oxides. Dated: November 22, 2002. Christine Todd Whitman, Administrator. For the reasons set out in the preamble, title 40, chapter I of the Code of Federal Regulations is amended as follows: PART 51 [ Amended] 1. The authority citation for part 51 continues to read as follows: Authority: 23 U. S. C. 101; 42 U. S. C. 7401 7671 q. Subpart I [ Amended] 2. In 40 CFR 51.165( a)( 1)( i), remove the words `` any air pollutant subject to regulation under the Act,'' and add, in their place, the words `` a regulated NSR pollutant.'' 3. In addition to the amendments set forth above, in 40 CFR 51.165 ( a)( 1)( iv)( A)( 1), remove the words `` pollutant subject to regulation under the Act'' and add, in their place, the words `` regulated NSR pollutant.'' 4. In addition to the amendments set forth above, § 51.165 is amended: a. By revising the introductory text in paragraph ( a). b. By revising paragraphs ( a)( 1)( v)( A) and ( B). c. By revising paragraph ( a)( 1)( v)( C)( 8). d. By adding paragraph ( a)( 1)( v)( D). e. By revising paragraph ( a)( 1)( vi)( A). f. By revising paragraph ( a)( 1)( vi)( C). g. By revising paragraph ( a)( 1)( vi)( E)( 2). h. By revising paragraph ( a)( 1)( vi)( E)( 4). i. By adding paragraph ( a)( 1)( vi)( E)( 5). j. By adding paragraph ( a)( 1)( vi)( G). k. By revising paragraph ( a)( 1)( vii). VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80245 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations l. By revising paragraph ( a)( 1)( xii). m. By revising the introductory text in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xiii). n. By revising paragraph ( a)( 1)( xviii). o. By reserving paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxi). p. By revising paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxv). q. By adding paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxvi) through ( xlii). r. By revising paragraph ( a)( 2). s. By adding paragraphs ( a)( 3)( ii)( H) through ( J). t. By adding paragraphs ( a)( 6) through ( 7). u. By adding paragraphs ( c) through ( g). The revisions and additions read as follows: § 51.165 Permit requirements. ( a) State Implementation Plan and Tribal Implementation Plan provisions satisfying sections 172( c)( 5) and 173 of the Act shall meet the following conditions: ( 1) * * * ( v) * * * ( A) Major modification means any physical change in or change in the method of operation of a major stationary source that would result in: ( 1) A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxxvii) of this section); and ( 2) A significant net emissions increase of that pollutant from the major stationary source. ( B) Any significant emissions increase ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxvii) of this section) from any emissions units or net emissions increase ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( vi) of this section) at a major stationary source that is significant for volatile organic compounds shall be considered significant for ozone. ( C) * * * ( 8) The addition, replacement, or use of a PCP, as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxv) of this section, at an existing emissions unit meeting the requirements of paragraph ( e) of this section. A replacement control technology must provide more effective emissions control than that of the replaced control technology to qualify for this exclusion. * * * * * ( D) This definition shall not apply with respect to a particular regulated NSR pollutant when the major stationary source is complying with the requirements under paragraph ( f) of this section for a PAL for that pollutant. Instead, the definition at paragraph ( f)( 2)( viii) of this section shall apply. ( vi)( A) Net emissions increase means, with respect to any regulated NSR pollutant emitted by a major stationary source, the amount by which the sum of the following exceeds zero: ( 1) The increase in emissions from a particular physical change or change in the method of operation at a stationary source as calculated pursuant to paragraph ( a)( 2)( ii) of this section; and ( 2) Any other increases and decreases in actual emissions at the major stationary source that are contemporaneous with the particular change and are otherwise creditable. Baseline actual emissions for calculating increases and decreases under this paragraph ( a)( 1)( vi)( A)( 2) shall be determined as provided in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxxv) of this section, except that paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxxv)( A)( 3) and ( a)( 1)( xxxv)( B)( 4) of this section shall not apply. * * * * * ( C) An increase or decrease in actual emissions is creditable only if: ( 1) It occurs within a reasonable period to be specified by the reviewing authority; and ( 2) The reviewing authority has not relied on it in issuing a permit for the source under regulations approved pursuant to this section, which permit is in effect when the increase in actual emissions from the particular change occurs; and ( 3) The increase or decrease in emissions did not occur at a Clean Unit, except as provided in paragraphs ( c)( 8) and ( d)( 10) of this section. * * * * * ( E) * * * ( 2) It is enforceable as a practical matter at and after the time that actual construction on the particular change begins; and * * * * * ( 4) It has approximately the same qualitative significance for public health and welfare as that attributed to the increase from the particular change; and ( 5) The decrease in actual emissions did not result from the installation of add­ on control technology or application of pollution prevention practices that were relied on in designating an emissions unit as a Clean Unit under 40 CFR 52.21( y) or under regulations approved pursuant to paragraph ( d) of this section or § 51.166( u). That is, once an emissions unit has been designated as a Clean Unit, the owner or operator cannot later use the emissions reduction from the air pollution control measures that the Clean Unit designation is based on in calculating the net emissions increase for another emissions unit ( i. e., must not use that reduction in a `` netting analysis'' for another emissions unit). However, any new emissions reductions that were not relied upon in a PCP excluded pursuant to paragraph ( e) of this section or for a Clean Unit designation are creditable to the extent they meet the requirements in paragraphs ( e)( 6)( iv) of this section for the PCP and paragraphs ( c)( 8) or ( d)( 10) of this section for a Clean Unit. * * * * * ( G) Paragraph ( a)( 1)( xii)( B) of this section shall not apply for determining creditable increases and decreases or after a change. * * * * * ( vii) Emissions unit means any part of a stationary source that emits or would have the potential to emit any regulated NSR pollutant and includes an electric steam generating unit as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xx) of this section. For purposes of this section, there are two types of emissions units as described in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( vii)( A) and ( B) of this section. ( A) A new emissions unit is any emissions unit which is ( or will be) newly constructed and which has existed for less than 2 years from the date such emissions unit first operated. ( B) An existing emissions unit is any emissions unit that does not meet the requirements in paragraph ( a)( 1)( vii)( A) of this section. * * * * * ( xii)( A) Actual emissions means the actual rate of emissions of a regulated NSR pollutant from an emissions unit, as determined in accordance with paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xii)( B) through ( D) of this section, except that this definition shall not apply for calculating whether a significant emissions increase has occurred, or for establishing a PAL under paragraph ( f) of this section. Instead, paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxviii) and ( xxxv) of this section shall apply for those purposes. ( B) In general, actual emissions as of a particular date shall equal the average rate, in tons per year, at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during a consecutive 24­ month period which precedes the particular date and which is representative of normal source operation. The reviewing authority shall allow the use of a different time period upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source operation. Actual emissions shall be calculated using the unit's actual operating hours, production rates, and types of materials processed, stored, or combusted during the selected time period. ( C) The reviewing authority may presume that source­ specific allowable VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 17: 13 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80246 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations emissions for the unit are equivalent to the actual emissions of the unit. ( D) For any emissions unit that has not begun normal operations on the particular date, actual emissions shall equal the potential to emit of the unit on that date. ( xiii) Lowest achievable emission rate ( LAER) means, for any source, the more stringent rate of emissions based on the following: * * * * * * * * ( xviii) Construction means any physical change or change in the method of operation ( including fabrication, erection, installation, demolition, or modification of an emissions unit) that would result in a change in emissions. * * * * * ( xxi) [ Reserved] * * * * * ( xxv) Pollution control project ( PCP) means any activity, set of work practices or project ( including pollution prevention as defined under paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxvi) of this section) undertaken at an existing emissions unit that reduces emissions of air pollutants from such unit. Such qualifying activities or projects can include the replacement or upgrade of an existing emissions control technology with a more effective unit. Other changes that may occur at the source are not considered part of the PCP if they are not necessary to reduce emissions through the PCP. Projects listed in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxv)( A) through ( F) of this section are presumed to be environmentally beneficial pursuant to paragraph ( e)( 2)( i) of this section. Projects not listed in these paragraphs may qualify for a casespecific PCP exclusion pursuant to the requirements of paragraphs ( e)( 2) and ( e)( 5) of this section. ( A) Conventional or advanced flue gas desulfurization or sorbent injection for control of SO2. ( B) Electrostatic precipitators, baghouses, high efficiency multiclones, or scrubbers for control of particulate matter or other pollutants. ( C) Flue gas recirculation, low­ NOX burners or combustors, selective noncatalytic reduction, selective catalytic reduction, low emission combustion ( for IC engines), and oxidation/ absorption catalyst for control of NOX. ( D) Regenerative thermal oxidizers, catalytic oxidizers, condensers, thermal incinerators, hydrocarbon combustion flares, biofiltration, absorbers and adsorbers, and floating roofs for storage vessels for control of volatile organic compounds or hazardous air pollutants. For the purpose of this section, `` hydrocarbon combustion flare'' means either a flare used to comply with an applicable NSPS or MACT standard ( including uses of flares during startup, shutdown, or malfunction permitted under such a standard), or a flare that serves to control emissions of waste streams comprised predominately of hydrocarbons and containing no more than 230 mg/ dscm hydrogen sulfide. ( E) Activities or projects undertaken to accommodate switching ( or partially switching) to an inherently less polluting fuel, to be limited to the following fuel switches: ( 1) Switching from a heavier grade of fuel oil to a lighter fuel oil, or any grade of oil to 0.05 percent sulfur diesel ( i. e., from a higher sulfur content # 2 fuel or from # 6 fuel, to CA 0.05 percent sulfur # 2 diesel); ( 2) Switching from coal, oil, or any solid fuel to natural gas, propane, or gasified coal; ( 3) Switching from coal to wood, excluding construction or demolition waste, chemical or pesticide treated wood, and other forms of `` unclean'' wood; ( 4) Switching from coal to # 2 fuel oil ( 0.5 percent maximum sulfur content); and ( 5) Switching from high sulfur coal to low sulfur coal ( maximum 1.2 percent sulfur content). ( F) Activities or projects undertaken to accommodate switching from the use of one ozone depleting substance ( ODS) to the use of a substance with a lower or zero ozone depletion potential ( ODP), including changes to equipment needed to accommodate the activity or project, that meet the requirements of paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxv)( F)( 1) and ( 2) of this section. ( 1) The productive capacity of the equipment is not increased as a result of the activity or project. ( 2) The projected usage of the new substance is lower, on an ODP­ weighted basis, than the baseline usage of the replaced ODS. To make this determination, follow the procedure in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxv)( F)( 2)( i) through ( iv) of this section. ( i) Determine the ODP of the substances by consulting 40 CFR part 82, subpart A, appendices A and B. ( ii) Calculate the replaced ODPweighted amount by multiplying the baseline actual usage ( using the annualized average of any 24 consecutive months of usage within the past 10 years) by the ODP of the replaced ODS. ( iii) Calculate the projected ODPweighted amount by multiplying the projected future annual usage of the new substance by its ODP. ( iv) If the value calculated in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxv)( F)( 2)( ii) of this section is more than the value calculated in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxv)( F)( 2)( iii) of this section, then the projected use of the new substance is lower, on an ODP­ weighted basis, than the baseline usage of the replaced ODS. ( xxvi) Pollution prevention means any activity that through process changes, product reformulation or redesign, or substitution of less polluting raw materials, eliminates or reduces the release of air pollutants ( including fugitive emissions) and other pollutants to the environment prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal; it does not mean recycling ( other than certain `` in­ process recycling'' practices), energy recovery, treatment, or disposal. ( xxvii) Significant emissions increase means, for a regulated NSR pollutant, an increase in emissions that is significant ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( x) of this section) for that pollutant. ( xxviii)( A) Projected actual emissions means, the maximum annual rate, in tons per year, at which an existing emissions unit is projected to emit a regulated NSR pollutant in any one of the 5 years ( 12­ month period) following the date the unit resumes regular operation after the project, or in any one of the 10 years following that date, if the project involves increasing the emissions unit's design capacity or its potential to emit of that regulated NSR pollutant and full utilization of the unit would result in a significant emissions increase or a significant net emissions increase at the major stationary source. ( B) In determining the projected actual emissions under paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxviii)( A) of this section before beginning actual construction, the owner or operator of the major stationary source: ( 1) Shall consider all relevant information, including but not limited to, historical operational data, the company's own representations, the company's expected business activity and the company's highest projections of business activity, the company's filings with the State or Federal regulatory authorities, and compliance plans under the approved plan; and ( 2) Shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions associated with startups, shutdowns, and malfunctions; and ( 3) Shall exclude, in calculating any increase in emissions that results from the particular project, that portion of the unit's emissions following the project that an existing unit could have accommodated during the consecutive 24­ month period used to establish the VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80247 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations baseline actual emissions under paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxxv) of this section and that are also unrelated to the particular project, including any increased utilization due to product demand growth; or, ( 4) In lieu of using the method set out in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxviii)( B)( 1) through ( 3) of this section, may elect to use the emissions unit's potential to emit, in tons per year, as defined under paragraph ( a)( 1)( iii) of this section. ( xxix) Clean Unit means any emissions unit that has been issued a major NSR permit that requires compliance with BACT or LAER, that is complying with such BACT/ LAER requirements, and qualifies as a Clean Unit pursuant to regulations approved by the Administrator in accordance with paragraph ( c) of this section; or any emissions unit that has been designated by a reviewing authority as a Clean Unit, based on the criteria in paragraphs ( d)( 3)( i) through ( iv) of this section, using a plan­ approved permitting process; or any emissions unit that has been designated as a Clean Unit by the Administrator in accordance with § 52.21( y)( 3)( i) through ( iv) of this chapter. ( xxx) Nonattainment major new source review ( NSR) program means a major source preconstruction permit program that has been approved by the Administrator and incorporated into the plan to implement the requirements of this section, or a program that implements part 51, appendix S, Sections I through VI of this chapter. Any permit issued under such a program is a major NSR permit. ( xxxi) Continuous emissions monitoring system ( CEMS) means all of the equipment that may be required to meet the data acquisition and availability requirements of this section, to sample, condition ( if applicable), analyze, and provide a record of emissions on a continuous basis. ( xxxii) Predictive emissions monitoring system ( PEMS) means all of the equipment necessary to monitor process and control device operational parameters ( for example, control device secondary voltages and electric currents) and other information ( for example, gas flow rate, O2 or CO2 concentrations), and calculate and record the mass emissions rate ( for example, lb/ hr) on a continuous basis. ( xxxiii) Continuous parameter monitoring system ( CPMS) means all of the equipment necessary to meet the data acquisition and availability requirements of this section, to monitor process and control device operational parameters ( for example, control device secondary voltages and electric currents) and other information ( for example, gas flow rate, O2 or CO2 concentrations), and to record average operational parameter value( s) on a continuous basis. ( xxxiv) Continuous emissions rate monitoring system ( CERMS) means the total equipment required for the determination and recording of the pollutant mass emissions rate ( in terms of mass per unit of time). ( xxxv) Baseline actual emissions means the rate of emissions, in tons per year, of a regulated NSR pollutant, as determined in accordance with paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxxv)( A) through ( D) of this section. ( A) For any existing electric utility steam generating unit, baseline actual emissions means the average rate, in tons per year, at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during any consecutive 24­ month period selected by the owner or operator within the 5­ year period immediately preceding when the owner or operator begins actual construction of the project. The reviewing authority shall allow the use of a different time period upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source operation. ( 1) The average rate shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions associated with startups, shutdowns, and malfunctions. ( 2) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any noncompliant emissions that occurred while the source was operating above any emission limitation that was legally enforceable during the consecutive 24­ month period. ( 3) For a regulated NSR pollutant, when a project involves multiple emissions units, only one consecutive 24­ month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for the emissions units being changed. A different consecutive 24­ month period can be used for each regulated NSR pollutant. ( 4) The average rate shall not be based on any consecutive 24­ month period for which there is inadequate information for determining annual emissions, in tons per year, and for adjusting this amount if required by paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxxv)( A)( 2) of this section. ( B) For an existing emissions unit ( other than an electric utility steam generating unit), baseline actual emissions means the average rate, in tons per year, at which the emissions unit actually emitted the pollutant during any consecutive 24­ month period selected by the owner or operator within the 10­ year period immediately preceding either the date the owner or operator begins actual construction of the project, or the date a complete permit application is received by the reviewing authority for a permit required either under this section or under a plan approved by the Administrator, whichever is earlier, except that the 10­ year period shall not include any period earlier than November 15, 1990. ( 1) The average rate shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions associated with startups, shutdowns, and malfunctions. ( 2) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any noncompliant emissions that occurred while the source was operating above an emission limitation that was legally enforceable during the consecutive 24­ month period. ( 3) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any emissions that would have exceeded an emission limitation with which the major stationary source must currently comply, had such major stationary source been required to comply with such limitations during the consecutive 24­ month period. However, if an emission limitation is part of a maximum achievable control technology standard that the Administrator proposed or promulgated under part 63 of this chapter, the baseline actual emissions need only be adjusted if the State has taken credit for such emissions reductions in an attainment demonstration or maintenance plan consistent with the requirements of paragraph ( a)( 3)( ii)( G) of this section. ( 4) For a regulated NSR pollutant, when a project involves multiple emissions units, only one consecutive 24­ month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for the emissions units being changed. A different consecutive 24­ month period can be used For each regulated NSR pollutant. ( 5) The average rate shall not be based on any consecutive 24­ month period for which there is inadequate information for determining annual emissions, in tons per year, and for adjusting this amount if required by paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxxv)( B)( 2) and ( 3) of this section. ( C) For a new emissions unit, the baseline actual emissions for purposes of determining the emissions increase that will result from the initial construction and operation of such unit shall equal zero; and thereafter, for all other purposes, shall equal the unit's potential to emit. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80248 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations ( D) For a PAL for a major stationary source, the baseline actual emissions shall be calculated for existing electric utility steam generating units in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxxv)( A) of this section, for other existing emissions units in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxxv)( B) of this section, and for a new emissions unit in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxxv)( C) of this section. ( xxxvi) [ Reserved] ( xxxvii) Regulated NSR pollutant, for purposes of this section, means the following: ( A) Nitrogen oxides or any volatile organic compounds; ( B) Any pollutant for which a national ambient air quality standard has been promulgated; or ( C) Any pollutant that is a constituent or precursor of a general pollutant listed under paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxxvii)( A) or ( B) of this section, provided that a constituent or precursor pollutant may only be regulated under NSR as part of regulation of the general pollutant. ( xxxviii) Reviewing authority means the State air pollution control agency, local agency, other State agency, Indian tribe, or other agency authorized by the Administrator to carry out a permit program under this section and § 51.166, or the Administrator in the case of EPA­ implemented permit programs under § 52.21. ( xxxix) Project means a physical change in, or change in the method of operation of, an existing major stationary source. ( XL) Best available control technology ( BACT) means an emissions limitation ( including a visible emissions standard) based on the maximum degree of reduction for each regulated NSR pollutant which would be emitted from any proposed major stationary source or major modification which the reviewing authority, on a case­ by­ case basis, taking into account energy, environmental, and economic impacts and other costs, determines is achievable for such source or modification through application of production processes or available methods, systems, and techniques, including fuel cleaning or treatment or innovative fuel combustion techniques for control of such pollutant. In no event shall application of best available control technology result in emissions of any pollutant which would exceed the emissions allowed by any applicable standard under 40 CFR part 60 or 61. If the reviewing authority determines that technological or economic limitations on the application of measurement methodology to a particular emissions unit would make the imposition of an emissions standard infeasible, a design, equipment, work practice, operational standard, or combination thereof, may be prescribed instead to satisfy the requirement for the application of BACT. Such standard shall, to the degree possible, set forth the emissions reduction achievable by implementation of such design, equipment, work practice or operation, and shall provide for compliance by means which achieve equivalent results. ( XLi) Prevention of Significant Deterioration ( PSD) permit means any permit that is issued under a major source preconstruction permit program that has been approved by the Administrator and incorporated into the plan to implement the requirements of § 51.166 of this chapter, or under the program in § 52.21 of this chapter. ( XLii) Federal Land Manager means, with respect to any lands in the United States, the Secretary of the department with authority over such lands. ( 2) Applicability procedures. ( i) Each plan shall adopt a preconstruction review program to satisfy the requirements of sections 172( c)( 5) and 173 of the Act for any area designated nonattainment for any national ambient air quality standard under subpart C of 40 CFR part 81. Such a program shall apply to any new major stationary source or major modification that is major for the pollutant for which the area is designated nonattainment under section 107( d)( 1)( A)( i) of the Act, if the stationary source or modification would locate anywhere in the designated nonattainment area. ( ii) Each plan shall use the specific provisions of paragraphs ( a)( 2)( ii)( A) through ( F) of this section. Deviations from these provisions will be approved only if the State specifically demonstrates that the submitted provisions are more stringent than or at least as stringent in all respects as the corresponding provisions in paragraphs ( a)( 2)( ii)( A) through ( F) of this section. ( A) Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs ( a)( 2)( iii) and ( iv) of this section, and consistent with the definition of major modification contained in paragraph ( a)( 1)( v)( A) of this section, a project is a major modification for a regulated NSR pollutant if it causes two types of emissions increases a significant emissions increase ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxvii) of this section), and a significant net emissions increase ( as defined in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( vi) and ( x) of this section). The project is not a major modification if it does not cause a significant emissions increase. If the project causes a significant emissions increase, then the project is a major modification only if it also results in a significant net emissions increase. ( B) The procedure for calculating ( before beginning actual construction) whether a significant emissions increase ( i. e., the first step of the process) will occur depends upon the type of emissions units being modified, according to paragraphs ( a)( 2)( ii)( C) through ( F) of this section. The procedure for calculating ( before beginning actual construction) whether a significant net emissions increase will occur at the major stationary source ( i. e., the second step of the process) is contained in the definition in paragraph ( a)( 1)( vi) of this section. Regardless of any such preconstruction projections, a major modification results if the project causes a significant emissions increase and a significant net emissions increase. ( C) Actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test for projects that only involve existing emissions units. A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the difference between the projected actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxviii) of this section) and the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxxv)( A) and ( B) of this section, as applicable), for each existing emissions unit, equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( x) of this section). ( D) Actual­ to­ potential test for projects that only involve construction of a new emissions unit( s). A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the difference between the potential to emit ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( iii) of this section) from each new emissions unit following completion of the project and the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxxv)( C) of this section) of these units before the project equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( x) of this section). ( E) Emission test for projects that involve Clean Units. For a project that will be constructed and operated at a Clean Unit without causing the emissions unit to lose its Clean Unit designation, no emissions increase is deemed to occur. ( F) Hybrid test for projects that involve multiple types of emissions units. A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the emissions increases for each emissions unit, using the method specified in paragraphs ( a)( 2)( ii)( C) through ( E) of this section as applicable with respect to each VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80249 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations emissions unit, for each type of emissions unit equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( x) of this section). For example, if a project involves both an existing emissions unit and a Clean Unit, the projected increase is determined by summing the values determined using the method specified in paragraph ( a)( 2)( ii)( C) of this section for the existing unit and using the method specified in paragraph ( a)( 2)( ii)( E) of this section for the Clean Unit. ( iii) The plan shall require that for any major stationary source for a PAL for a regulated NSR pollutant, the major stationary source shall comply with requirements under paragraph ( f) of this section. ( iv) The plan shall require that an owner or operator undertaking a PCP ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxv) of this section) shall comply with the requirements under paragraph ( e) of this section. ( 3) * * * ( ii) * * * ( H) Decreases in actual emissions resulting from the installation of add­ on control technology or application of pollution prevention measures that were relied upon in designating an emissions unit as a Clean Unit or a project as a PCP cannot be used as offsets. ( I) Decreases in actual emissions occurring at a Clean Unit cannot be used as offsets, except as provided in paragraphs ( c)( 8) and ( d)( 10) of this section. Similarly, decreases in actual emissions occurring at a PCP cannot be used as offsets, except as provided in paragraph ( e)( 6)( iv) of this section. ( J) The total tonnage of increased emissions, in tons per year, resulting from a major modification that must be offset in accordance with section 173 of the Act shall be determined by summing the difference between the allowable emissions after the modification ( as defined by paragraph ( a)( 1)( xi) of this section) and the actual emissions before the modification ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xii) of this section) for each emissions unit. * * * * * ( 6) Each plan shall provide that the following specific provisions apply to projects at existing emissions units at a major stationary source ( other than projects at a Clean Unit or at a source with a PAL) in circumstances where there is a reasonable possibility that a project that is not a part of a major modification may result in a significant emissions increase and the owner or operator elects to use the method specified in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxviii)( B)( 1) through ( 3) of this section for calculating projected actual emissions. Deviations from these provisions will be approved only if the State specifically demonstrates that the submitted provisions are more stringent than or at least as stringent in all respects as the corresponding provisions in paragraphs ( a)( 6)( i) through ( v) of this section. ( i) Before beginning actual construction of the project, the owner or operator shall document and maintain a record of the following information: ( A) A description of the project; ( B) Identification of the emissions unit( s) whose emissions of a regulated NSR pollutant could be affected by the project; and ( C) A description of the applicability test used to determine that the project is not a major modification for any regulated NSR pollutant, including the baseline actual emissions, the projected actual emissions, the amount of emissions excluded under paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxviii)( B)( 3) of this section and an explanation for why such amount was excluded, and any netting calculations, if applicable. ( ii) If the emissions unit is an existing electric utility steam generating unit, before beginning actual construction, the owner or operator shall provide a copy of the information set out in paragraph ( a)( 6)( i) of this section to the reviewing authority. Nothing in this paragraph ( a)( 6)( ii) shall be construed to require the owner or operator of such a unit to obtain any determination from the reviewing authority before beginning actual construction. ( iii) The owner or operator shall monitor the emissions of any regulated NSR pollutant that could increase as a result of the project and that is emitted by any emissions units identified in paragraph ( a)( 6)( i)( B) of this section; and calculate and maintain a record of the annual emissions, in tons per year on a calendar year basis, for a period of 5 years following resumption of regular operations after the change, or for a period of 10 years following resumption of regular operations after the change if the project increases the design capacity or potential to emit of that regulated NSR pollutant at such emissions unit. ( iv) If the unit is an existing electric utility steam generating unit, the owner or operator shall submit a report to the reviewing authority within 60 days after the end of each year during which records must be generated under paragraph ( a)( 6)( iii) of this section setting out the unit's annual emissions during the year that preceded submission of the report. ( v) If the unit is an existing unit other than an electric utility steam generating unit, the owner or operator shall submit a report to the reviewing authority if the annual emissions, in tons per year, from the project identified in paragraph ( a)( 6)( i) of this section, exceed the baseline actual emissions ( as documented and maintained pursuant to paragraph ( a)( 6)( i)( C) of this section, by a significant amount ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( x) of this section) for that regulated NSR pollutant, and if such emissions differ from the preconstruction projection as documented and maintained pursuant to paragraph ( a)( 6)( i)( C) of this section. Such report shall be submitted to the reviewing authority within 60 days after the end of such year. The report shall contain the following: ( A) The name, address and telephone number of the major stationary source; ( B) The annual emissions as calculated pursuant to paragraph ( a)( 6)( iii) of this section; and ( C) Any other information that the owner or operator wishes to include in the report ( e. g., an explanation as to why the emissions differ from the preconstruction projection). ( 7) Each plan shall provide that the owner or operator of the source shall make the information required to be documented and maintained pursuant to paragraph ( a)( 6) of this section available for review upon a request for inspection by the reviewing authority or the general public pursuant to the requirements contained in § 70.4( b)( 3)( viii) of this chapter. * * * * * ( c) Clean Unit Test for emissions units that are subject to LAER. The plan shall provide an owner or operator of a major stationary source the option of using the Clean Unit Test to determine whether emissions increases at a Clean Unit are part of a project that is a major modification according to the provisions in paragraphs ( c)( 1) through ( 9) of this section. ( 1) Applicability. The provisions of this paragraph ( c) apply to any emissions unit for which the reviewing authority has issued a major NSR permit within the past 10 years. ( 2) General provisions for Clean Units. The provisions in paragraphs ( c)( 2)( i) through ( v) of this section apply to a Clean Unit. ( i) Any project for which the owner or operator begins actual construction after the effective date of the Clean Unit designation ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( c)( 4) of this section) and before the expiration date ( as determined in accordance with VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80250 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations paragraph ( c)( 5) of this section) will be considered to have occurred while the emissions unit was a Clean Unit. ( ii) If a project at a Clean Unit does not cause the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that were adopted in conjunction with LAER and the project would not alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the LAER determination as specified in paragraph ( c)( 6)( iv) of this section, the emissions unit remains a Clean Unit. ( iii) If a project causes the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that were adopted in conjunction with LAER or the project would alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the LAER determination as specified in paragraph ( c)( 6)( iv) of this section, then the emissions unit loses its designation as a Clean Unit upon issuance of the necessary permit revisions ( unless the unit requalifies as a Clean Unit pursuant to paragraph ( c)( 3)( iii) of this section). If the owner or operator begins actual construction on the project without first applying to revise the emissions unit's permit, the Clean Unit designation ends immediately prior to the time when actual construction begins. ( iv) A project that causes an emissions unit to lose its designation as a Clean Unit is subject to the applicability requirements of paragraphs ( a)( 2)( ii)( A) through ( D) and paragraph ( a)( 2)( ii)( F) of this section as if the emissions unit is not a Clean Unit. ( v) Certain Emissions Units with PSD permits. For emissions units that meet the requirements of paragraphs ( c)( 2)( v)( A) and ( B) of this section, the BACT level of emissions reductions and/ or work practice requirements shall satisfy the requirement for LAER in meeting the requirements for Clean Units under paragraphs ( c)( 3) through ( 8) of this section. For these emissions units, all requirements for the LAER determination under paragraphs ( c)( 2)( ii) and ( iii) of this section shall also apply to the BACT permit terms and conditions. In addition, the requirements of paragraph ( c)( 7)( i)( B) of this section do not apply to emissions units that qualify for Clean Unit status under this paragraph ( c)( 2)( v). ( A) The emissions unit must have received a PSD permit within the last 10 years and such permit must require the emissions unit to comply with BACT. ( B) The emissions unit must be located in an area that was redesignated as nonattainment for the relevant pollutant( s) after issuance of the PSD permit and before the effective date of the Clean Unit Test provisions in the area. ( 3) Qualifying or re­ qualifying to use the Clean Unit applicability test. An emissions unit automatically qualifies as a Clean Unit when the unit meets the criteria in paragraphs ( c)( 3)( i) and ( ii) of this section. After the original Clean Unit designation expires in accordance with paragraph ( c)( 5) of this section or is lost pursuant to paragraph ( c)( 2)( iii) of this section, such emissions unit may re­ qualify as a Clean Unit under either paragraph ( c)( 3)( iii) of this section, or under the Clean Unit provisions in paragraph ( d) of this section. To requalify as a Clean Unit under paragraph ( c)( 3)( iii) of this section, the emissions unit must obtain a new major NSR permit issued through the applicable nonattainment major NSR program and meet all the criteria in paragraph ( c)( 3)( iii) of this section. Clean Unit designation applies individually for each pollutant emitted by the emissions unit. ( i) Permitting requirement. The emissions unit must have received a major NSR permit within the past 10 years. The owner or operator must maintain and be able to provide information that would demonstrate that this permitting requirement is met. ( ii) Qualifying air pollution control technologies. Air pollutant emissions from the emissions unit must be reduced through the use of an air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention as defined under paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxvi) of this section or work practices) that meets both the following requirements in paragraphs ( c)( 3)( ii)( A) and ( B) of this section. ( A) The control technology achieves the LAER level of emissions reductions as determined through issuance of a major NSR permit within the past 10 years. However, the emissions unit is not eligible for Clean Unit designation if the LAER determination resulted in no requirement to reduce emissions below the level of a standard, uncontrolled, new emissions unit of the same type. ( B) The owner or operator made an investment to install the control technology. For the purpose of this determination, an investment includes expenses to research the application of a pollution prevention technique to the emissions unit or expenses to apply a pollution prevention technique to an emissions unit. ( iii) Re­ qualifying for the Clean Unit designation. The emissions unit must obtain a new major NSR permit that requires compliance with the currentday LAER, and the emissions unit must meet the requirements in paragraphs ( c)( 3)( i) and ( c)( 3)( ii) of this section. ( 4) Effective date of the Clean Unit designation. The effective date of an emissions unit's Clean Unit designation ( that is, the date on which the owner or operator may begin to use the Clean Unit Test to determine whether a project at the emissions unit is a major modification) is determined according to the applicable paragraph ( c)( 4)( i) or ( c)( 4)( ii) of this section. ( i) Original Clean Unit designation, and emissions units that re­ qualify as Clean Units by implementing a new control technology to meet current­ day LAER. The effective date is the date the emissions unit's air pollution control technology is placed into service, or 3 years after the issuance date of the major NSR permit, whichever is earlier, but no sooner than the date that provisions for the Clean Unit applicability test are approved by the Administrator for incorporation into the plan and become effective for the State in which the unit is located. ( ii) Emissions units that re­ qualify for the Clean Unit designation using an existing control technology. The effective date is the date the new, major NSR permit is issued. ( 5) Clean Unit expiration. An emissions unit's Clean Unit designation expires ( that is, the date on which the owner or operator may no longer use the Clean Unit Test to determine whether a project affecting the emissions unit is, or is part of, a major modification) according to the applicable paragraph ( c)( 5)( i) or ( ii) of this section. ( i) Original Clean Unit designation, and emissions units that re­ qualify by implementing new control technology to meet current­ day LAER. For any emissions unit that automatically qualifies as a Clean Unit under paragraphs ( c)( 3)( i) and ( ii) of this section, the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years after the effective date, or the date the equipment went into service, whichever is earlier; or, it expires at any time the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining Clean Unit designation in paragraph ( c)( 7) of this section. ( ii) Emissions units that re­ qualify for the Clean Unit designation using an existing control technology. For any emissions unit that re­ qualifies as a Clean Unit under paragraph ( c)( 3)( iii) of this section, the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years after the effective date; or, it expires any time the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining the Clean Unit Designation in paragraph ( c)( 7) of this section. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80251 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations ( 6) Required title V permit content for a Clean Unit. After the effective date of the Clean Unit designation, and in accordance with the provisions of the applicable title V permit program under part 70 or part 71 of this chapter, but no later than when the title V permit is renewed, the title V permit for the major stationary source must include the following terms and conditions in paragraphs ( c)( 6)( i) through ( vi) of this section related to the Clean Unit. ( i) A statement indicating that the emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit and identifying the pollutant( s) for which this Clean Unit designation applies. ( ii) The effective date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the Clean Unit designation is initially recorded in the title V permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), the permit must describe the event that will determine the effective date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the effective date is determined, the owner or operator must notify the reviewing authority of the exact date. This specific effective date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iii) The expiration date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the Clean Unit designation is initially recorded into the title V permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), then the permit must describe the event that will determine the expiration date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the expiration date is determined, the owner or operator must notify the reviewing authority of the exact date. The expiration date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iv) All emission limitations and work practice requirements adopted in conjunction with the LAER, and any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the LAER determination ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( v) Monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements as necessary to demonstrate that the emissions unit continues to meet the criteria for maintaining the Clean Unit designation. ( See paragraph ( c)( 7) of this section.) ( vi) Terms reflecting the owner or operator's duties to maintain the Clean Unit designation and the consequences of failing to do so, as presented in paragraph ( c)( 7) of this section. ( 7) Maintaining the Clean Unit designation. To maintain the Clean Unit designation, the owner or operator must conform to all the restrictions listed in paragraphs ( c)( 7)( i) through ( iii) of this section. This paragraph ( c)( 7) applies independently to each pollutant for which the emissions unit has the Clean Unit designation. That is, failing to conform to the restrictions for one pollutant affects Clean Unit designation only for that pollutant. ( i) The Clean Unit must comply with the emission limitation( s) and/ or work practice requirements adopted in conjunction with the LAER that is recorded in the major NSR permit, and subsequently reflected in the title V permit. ( A) The owner or operator may not make a physical change in or change in the method of operation of the Clean Unit that causes the emissions unit to function in a manner that is inconsistent with the physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the LAER determination ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( B) The Clean Unit may not emit above a level that has been offset. ( ii) The Clean Unit must comply with any terms and conditions in the title V permit related to the unit's Clean Unit designation. ( iii) The Clean Unit must continue to control emissions using the specific air pollution control technology that was the basis for its Clean Unit designation. If the emissions unit or control technology is replaced, then the Clean Unit designation ends. ( 8) Offsets and netting at Clean Units. Emissions changes that occur at a Clean Unit must not be included in calculating a significant net emissions increase ( that is, must not be used in a `` netting analysis''), or be used for generating offsets unless such use occurs before the effective date of the Clean Unit designation, or after the Clean Unit designation expires; or, unless the emissions unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit. However, if the Clean Unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit, then, the owner or operator may generate a credit for the difference between the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit and the new emission limitation if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, and permanent. For purposes of generating offsets, the reductions must also be federally enforceable. For purposes of determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases, the reductions must also be enforceable as a practical matter. ( 9) Effect of redesignation on the Clean Unit designation. The Clean Unit designation of an emissions unit is not affected by redesignation of the attainment status of the area in which it is located. That is, if a Clean Unit is located in an attainment area and the area is redesignated to nonattainment, its Clean Unit designation is not affected. Similarly, redesignation from nonattainment to attainment does not affect the Clean Unit designation. However, if an existing Clean Unit designation expires, it must re­ qualify under the requirements that are currently applicable in the area. ( d) Clean Unit provisions for emissions units that achieve an emission limitation comparable to LAER. The plan shall provide an owner or operator of a major stationary source the option of using the Clean Unit Test to determine whether emissions increases at a Clean Unit are part of a project that is a major modification according to the provisions in paragraphs ( d)( 1) through ( 11) of this section. ( 1) Applicability. The provisions of this paragraph ( d) apply to emissions units which do not qualify as Clean Units under paragraph ( c) of this section, but which are achieving a level of emissions control comparable to LAER, as determined by the reviewing authority in accordance with this paragraph ( d). ( 2) General provisions for Clean Units. The provisions in paragraphs ( d)( 2)( i) through ( iv) of this section apply to a Clean Unit ( designated under this paragraph ( d)). ( i) Any project for which the owner or operator begins actual construction after the effective date of the Clean Unit designation ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( d)( 5) of this section) and before the expiration date ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( d)( 6) of this section) will be considered to have occurred while the emissions unit was a Clean Unit. ( ii) If a project at a Clean Unit does not cause the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that have been determined ( pursuant to paragraph ( d)( 4) of this section) to be comparable to LAER, and the project would not alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80252 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations the basis for determining that the emissions unit's control technology achieves a level of emissions control comparable to LAER as specified in paragraph ( d)( 8)( iv) of this section, the emissions unit remains a Clean Unit. ( iii) If a project causes the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that have been determined ( pursuant to paragraph ( d)( 4) of this section) to be comparable to LAER, or the project would alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for determining that the emissions unit's control technology achieves a level of emissions control comparable to LAER as specified in paragraph ( d)( 8)( iv) of this section, then the emissions unit loses its designation as a Clean Unit upon issuance of the necessary permit revisions ( unless the unit re­ qualifies as a Clean Unit pursuant to paragraph ( d)( 3)( iv) of this section). If the owner or operator begins actual construction on the project without first applying to revise the emissions unit's permit, the Clean Unit designation ends immediately prior to the time when actual construction begins. ( iv) A project that causes an emissions unit to lose its designation as a Clean Unit is subject to the applicability requirements of paragraphs ( a)( 2)( ii)( A) through ( D) and paragraph ( a)( 2)( ii)( F) of this section as if the emissions unit were never a Clean Unit. ( 3) Qualifying or re­ qualifying to use the Clean Unit applicability test. An emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit when the unit meets the criteria in paragraphs ( d)( 3)( i) through ( iii) of this section. After the original Clean Unit designation expires in accordance with paragraph ( d)( 6) of this section or is lost pursuant to paragraph ( d)( 2)( iii) of this section, such emissions unit may requalify as a Clean Unit under either paragraph ( d)( 3)( iv) of this section, or under the Clean Unit provisions in paragraph ( c) of this section. To requalify as a Clean Unit under paragraph ( d)( 3)( iv) of this section, the emissions unit must obtain a new permit issued pursuant to the requirements in paragraphs ( d)( 7) and ( 8) of this section and meet all the criteria in paragraph ( d)( 3)( iv) of this section. The reviewing authority will make a separate Clean Unit designation for each pollutant emitted by the emissions unit for which the emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit. ( i) Qualifying air pollution control technologies. Air pollutant emissions from the emissions unit must be reduced through the use of air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention as defined under paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxvi) of this section or work practices) that meets both the following requirements in paragraphs ( d)( 3)( i)( A) and ( B) of this section. ( A) The owner or operator has demonstrated that the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to LAER according to the requirements of paragraph ( d)( 4) of this section. However, the emissions unit is not eligible for the Clean Unit designation if its emissions are not reduced below the level of a standard, uncontrolled emissions unit of the same type ( e. g., if the LAER determinations to which it is compared have resulted in a determination that no control measures are required). ( B) The owner or operator made an investment to install the control technology. For the purpose of this determination, an investment includes expenses to research the application of a pollution prevention technique to the emissions unit or to retool the unit to apply a pollution prevention technique. ( ii) Impact of emissions from the unit. The reviewing authority must determine that the allowable emissions from the emissions unit will not cause or contribute to a violation of any national ambient air quality standard or PSD increment, or adversely impact an air quality related value ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which information is available to the general public. ( iii) Date of installation. An emissions unit may qualify as a Clean Unit even if the control technology, on which the Clean Unit designation is based, was installed before the effective date of plan requirements to implement the requirements of this paragraph ( d)( 3)( iii). However, for such emissions units, the owner or operator must apply for the Clean Unit designation within 2 years after the plan requirements become effective. For technologies installed after the plan requirements become effective, the owner or operator must apply for the Clean Unit designation at the time the control technology is installed. ( iv) Re­ qualifying as a Clean Unit. The emissions unit must obtain a new permit ( pursuant to requirements in paragraphs ( d)( 7) and ( 8) of this section) that demonstrates that the emissions unit's control technology is achieving a level of emission control comparable to current­ day LAER, and the emissions unit must meet the requirements in paragraphs ( d)( 3)( i)( A) and ( d)( 3)( ii) of this section. ( 4) Demonstrating control effectiveness comparable to LAER. The owner or operator may demonstrate that the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to LAER for purposes of paragraph ( d)( 3)( i) of this section according to either paragraph ( d)( 4)( i) or ( ii) of this section. Paragraph ( d)( 4)( iii) of this section specifies the time for making this comparison. ( i) Comparison to previous LAER determinations. The administrator maintains an on­ line data base of previous determinations of RACT, BACT, and LAER in the RACT/ BACT/ LAER Clearinghouse ( RBLC). The emissions unit's control technology is presumed to be comparable to LAER if it achieves an emission limitation that is at least as stringent as any one of the five best­ performing similar sources for which a LAER determination has been made within the preceding 5 years, and for which information has been entered into the RBLC. The reviewing authority shall also compare this presumption to any additional LAER determinations of which it is aware, and shall consider any information on achieved­ in­ practice pollution control technologies provided during the public comment period, to determine whether any presumptive determination that the control technology is comparable to LAER is correct. ( ii) The substantially­ as­ effective test. The owner or operator may demonstrate that the emissions unit's control technology is substantially as effective as LAER. In addition, any other person may present evidence related to whether the control technology is substantially as effective as LAER during the public participation process required under paragraph ( d)( 7) of this section. The reviewing authority shall consider such evidence on a case­ by­ case basis and determine whether the emissions unit's air pollution control technology is substantially as effective as LAER. ( iii) Time of comparison. ( A) Emissions units with control technologies that are installed before the effective date of plan requirements implementing this paragraph. The owner or operator of an emissions unit whose control technology is installed before the effective date of plan requirements implementing this paragraph ( d) may, at its option, either demonstrate that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to the LAER requirements that applied at the time the control technology was installed, or demonstrate that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to current­ day LAER requirements. The expiration date of the Clean Unit designation will depend on which option the owner or VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80253 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations operator uses, as specified in paragraph ( d)( 6) of this section. ( B) Emissions units with control technologies that are installed after the effective date of plan requirements implementing this paragraph. The owner or operator must demonstrate that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to current­ day LAER requirements. ( 5) Effective date of the Clean Unit designation. The effective date of an emissions unit's Clean Unit designation ( that is, the date on which the owner or operator may begin to use the Clean Unit Test to determine whether a project involving the emissions unit is a major modification) is the date that the permit required by paragraph ( d)( 7) of this section is issued or the date that the emissions unit's air pollution control technology is placed into service, whichever is later. ( 6) Clean Unit expiration. If the owner or operator demonstrates that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to the LAER requirements that applied at the time the control technology was installed, then the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years from the date that the control technology was installed. For all other emissions units, the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years from the effective date of the Clean Unit designation, as determined according to paragraph ( d)( 5) of this section. In addition, for all emissions units, the Clean Unit designation expires any time the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining the Clean Unit designation in paragraph ( d)( 9) of this section. ( 7) Procedures for designating emissions units as Clean Units. The reviewing authority shall designate an emissions unit a Clean Unit only by issuing a permit through a permitting program that has been approved by the Administrator and that conforms with the requirements of § § 51.160 through 51.164 of this chapter including requirements for public notice of the proposed Clean Unit designation and opportunity for public comment. Such permit must also meet the requirements in paragraph ( d)( 8). ( 8) Required permit content. The permit required by paragraph ( d)( 7) of this section shall include the terms and conditions set forth in paragraphs ( d)( 8)( i) through ( vi) of this section. Such terms and conditions shall be incorporated into the major stationary source's title V permit in accordance with the provisions of the applicable title V permit program under part 70 or part 71 of this chapter, but no later than when the title V permit is renewed. ( i) A statement indicating that the emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit and identifying the pollutant( s) for which this designation applies. ( ii) The effective date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the reviewing authority issues the permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), then the permit must describe the event that will determine the effective date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the effective date is known, then the owner or operator must notify the reviewing authority of the exact date. This specific effective date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iii) The expiration date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the reviewing authority issues the permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), then the permit must describe the event that will determine the expiration date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the expiration date is known, then the owner or operator must notify the reviewing authority of the exact date. The expiration date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iv) All emission limitations and work practice requirements adopted in conjunction with emission limitations necessary to assure that the control technology continues to achieve an emission limitation comparable to LAER, and any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for determining that the emissions unit's control technology achieves a level of emissions control comparable to LAER ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( v) Monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements as necessary to demonstrate that the emissions unit continues to meet the criteria for maintaining its Clean Unit designation. ( See paragraph ( d)( 9) of this section.) ( vi) Terms reflecting the owner or operator's duties to maintain the Clean Unit designation and the consequences of failing to do so, as presented in paragraph ( d)( 9) of this section. ( 9) Maintaining Clean Unit designation. To maintain Clean Unit designation, the owner or operator must conform to all the restrictions listed in paragraphs ( d)( 9)( i) through ( v) of this section. This paragraph ( d)( 9) applies independently to each pollutant for which the reviewing authority has designated the emissions unit a Clean Unit. That is, failing to conform to the restrictions for one pollutant affects the Clean Unit designation only for that pollutant. ( i) The Clean Unit must comply with the emission limitation( s) and/ or work practice requirements adopted to ensure that the control technology continues to achieve emission control comparable to LAER. ( ii) The owner or operator may not make a physical change in or change in the method of operation of the Clean Unit that causes the emissions unit to function in a manner that is inconsistent with the physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the determination that the control technology is achieving a level of emission control that is comparable to LAER ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( iii) The Clean Unit may not emit above a level that has been offset. ( iv) The Clean Unit must comply with any terms and conditions in the title V permit related to the unit's Clean Unit designation. ( v) The Clean Unit must continue to control emissions using the specific air pollution control technology that was the basis for its Clean Unit designation. If the emissions unit or control technology is replaced, then the Clean Unit designation ends. ( 10) Offsets and Netting at Clean Units. Emissions changes that occur at a Clean Unit must not be included in calculating a significant net emissions increase ( that is, must not be used in a `` netting analysis''), or be used for generating offsets unless such use occurs before the effective date of plan requirements adopted to implement this paragraph ( d) or after the Clean Unit designation expires; or, unless the emissions unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit. However, if the Clean Unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit, then the owner or operator may generate a credit for the difference between the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit and the emissions unit's new emission limitation if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, and permanent. For purposes of generating offsets, the reductions must also be federally enforceable. For purposes of VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80254 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases, the reductions must also be enforceable as a practical matter. ( 11) Effect of redesignation on the Clean Unit designation. The Clean Unit designation of an emissions unit is not affected by redesignation of the attainment status of the area in which it is located. That is, if a Clean Unit is located in an attainment area and the area is redesignated to nonattainment, its Clean Unit designation is not affected. Similarly, redesignation from nonattainment to attainment does not affect the Clean Unit designation. However, if a Clean Unit's designation expires or is lost pursuant to paragraphs ( c)( 2)( iii) and ( d)( 2)( iii) of this section, it must re­ qualify under the requirements that are currently applicable. ( e) PCP exclusion procedural requirements. Each plan shall include provisions for PCPs equivalent to those contained in paragraphs ( e)( 1) through ( 6) of this section. ( 1) Before an owner or operator begins actual construction of a PCP, the owner or operator must either submit a notice to the reviewing authority if the project is listed in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxv)( A) through ( F) of this section, or if the project is not listed in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxv)( A) through ( F) of this section, then the owner or operator must submit a permit application and obtain approval to use the PCP exclusion from the reviewing authority consistent with the requirements in paragraph ( e)( 5) of this section. Regardless of whether the owner or operator submits a notice or a permit application, the project must meet the requirements in paragraph ( e)( 2) of this section, and the notice or permit application must contain the information required in paragraph ( e)( 3) of this section. ( 2) Any project that relies on the PCP exclusion must meet the requirements in paragraphs ( e)( 2)( i) and ( ii) of this section. ( i) Environmentally beneficial analysis. The environmental benefit from the emission reductions of pollutants regulated under the Act must outweigh the environmental detriment of emissions increases in pollutants regulated under the Act. A statement that a technology from paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxv)( A) through ( F) of this section is being used shall be presumed to satisfy this requirement. ( ii) Air quality analysis. The emissions increases from the project will not cause or contribute to a violation of any national ambient air quality standard or PSD increment, or adversely impact an air quality related value ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which information is available to the general public. ( 3) Content of notice or permit application. In the notice or permit application sent to the reviewing authority, the owner or operator must include, at a minimum, the information listed in paragraphs ( e)( 3)( i) through ( v) of this section. ( i) A description of the project. ( ii) The potential emissions increases and decreases of any pollutant regulated under the Act and the projected emissions increases and decreases using the methodology in paragraph ( a)( 2)( ii) of this section, that will result from the project, and a copy of the environmentally beneficial analysis required by paragraph ( e)( 2)( i) of this section. ( iii) A description of monitoring and recordkeeping, and all other methods, to be used on an ongoing basis to demonstrate that the project is environmentally beneficial. Methods should be sufficient to meet the requirements in part 70 and part 71. ( iv) A certification that the project will be designed and operated in a manner that is consistent with proper industry and engineering practices, in a manner that is consistent with the environmentally beneficial analysis and air quality analysis required by paragraphs ( e)( 2)( i) and ( ii) of this section, with information submitted in the notice or permit application, and in such a way as to minimize, within the physical configuration and operational standards usually associated with the emissions control device or strategy, emissions of collateral pollutants. ( v) Demonstration that the PCP will not have an adverse air quality impact ( e. g., modeling, screening level modeling results, or a statement that the collateral emissions increase is included within the parameters used in the most recent modeling exercise) as required by paragraph ( e)( 2)( ii) of this section. An air quality impact analysis is not required for any pollutant which will not experience a significant emissions increase as a result of the project. ( 4) Notice process for listed projects. For projects listed in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxv)( A) through ( F) of this section, the owner or operator may begin actual construction of the project immediately after notice is sent to the reviewing authority ( unless otherwise prohibited under requirements of the applicable plan). The owner or operator shall respond to any requests by its reviewing authority for additional information that the reviewing authority determines is necessary to evaluate the suitability of the project for the PCP exclusion. ( 5) Permit process for unlisted projects. Before an owner or operator may begin actual construction of a PCP project that is not listed in paragraphs ( a)( 1)( xxv)( A) through ( F) of this section, the project must be approved by the reviewing authority and recorded in a plan­ approved permit or title V permit using procedures that are consistent with § § 51.160 and 51.161 of this chapter. This includes the requirement that the reviewing authority provide the public with notice of the proposed approval, with access to the environmentally beneficial analysis and the air quality analysis, and provide at least a 30­ day period for the public and the Administrator to submit comments. The reviewing authority must address all material comments received by the end of the comment period before taking final action on the permit. ( 6) Operational requirements. Upon installation of the PCP, the owner or operator must comply with the requirements of paragraphs ( e)( 6)( i) through ( iii) of this section. ( i) General duty. The owner or operator must operate the PCP in a manner consistent with proper industry and engineering practices, in a manner that is consistent with the environmentally beneficial analysis and air quality analysis required by paragraphs ( e)( 2)( i) and ( ii) of this section, with information submitted in the notice or permit application required by paragraph ( e)( 3) of this section, and in such a way as to minimize, within the physical configuration and operational standards usually associated with the emissions control device or strategy, emissions of collateral pollutants. ( ii) Recordkeeping. The owner or operator must maintain copies on site of the environmentally beneficial analysis, the air quality impacts analysis, and monitoring and other emission records to prove that the PCP operated consistent with the general duty requirements in paragraph ( e)( 6)( i) of this section. ( iii) Permit requirements. The owner or operator must comply with any provisions in the plan­ approved permit or title V permit related to use and approval of the PCP exclusion. ( iv) Generation of emission reduction credits. Emission reductions created by a PCP shall not be included in calculating a significant net emissions increase, or be used for generating offsets, unless the emissions unit further reduces emissions after qualifying for the PCP exclusion ( e. g., taking an operational restriction on the hours of VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80255 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations operation). The owner or operator may generate a credit for the difference between the level of reduction which was used to qualify for the PCP exclusion and the new emission limitation if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, and permanent. For purposes of generating offsets, the reductions must also be federally enforceable. For purposes of determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases, the reductions must also be enforceable as a practical matter. ( f) Actuals PALs. The plan shall provide for PALs according to the provisions in paragraphs ( f)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. ( 1) Applicability. ( i) The reviewing authority may approve the use of an actuals PAL for any existing major stationary source ( except as provided in paragraph ( f)( 1)( ii) of this section) if the PAL meets the requirements in paragraphs ( f)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. The term `` PAL'' shall mean `` actuals PAL'' throughout paragraph ( f) of this section. ( ii) The reviewing authority shall not allow an actuals PAL for VOC or NOX for any major stationary source located in an extreme ozone nonattainment area. ( iii) Any physical change in or change in the method of operation of a major stationary source that maintains its total source­ wide emissions below the PAL level, meets the requirements in paragraphs ( f)( 1) through ( 15) of this section, and complies with the PAL permit: ( A) Is not a major modification for the PAL pollutant; ( B) Does not have to be approved through the plan's nonattainment major NSR program; and ( C) Is not subject to the provisions in paragraph ( a)( 5)( ii) of this section ( restrictions on relaxing enforceable emission limitations that the major stationary source used to avoid applicability of the nonattainment major NSR program). ( iv) Except as provided under paragraph ( f)( 1)( iii)( C) of this section, a major stationary source shall continue to comply with all applicable Federal or State requirements, emission limitations, and work practice requirements that were established prior to the effective date of the PAL. ( 2) Definitions. The plan shall use the definitions in paragraphs ( f)( 2)( i) through ( xi) of this section for the purpose of developing and implementing regulations that authorize the use of actuals PALs consistent with paragraphs ( f)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. When a term is not defined in these paragraphs, it shall have the meaning given in paragraph ( a)( 1) of this section or in the Act. ( i) Actuals PAL for a major stationary source means a PAL based on the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxxv) of this section) of all emissions units ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( vii) of this section) at the source, that emit or have the potential to emit the PAL pollutant. ( ii) Allowable emissions means `` allowable emissions'' as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xi) of this section, except as this definition is modified according to paragraphs ( f)( 2)( ii)( A) through ( B) of this section. ( A) The allowable emissions for any emissions unit shall be calculated considering any emission limitations that are enforceable as a practical matter on the emissions unit's potential to emit. ( B) An emissions unit's potential to emit shall be determined using the definition in paragraph ( a)( 1)( iii) of this section, except that the words `` or enforceable as a practical matter'' should be added after `` federally enforceable.'' ( iii) Small emissions unit means an emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit the PAL pollutant in an amount less than the significant level for that PAL pollutant, as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( x) of this section or in the Act, whichever is lower. ( iv) Major emissions unit means: ( A) Any emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit 100 tons per year or more of the PAL pollutant in an attainment area; or ( B) Any emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit the PAL pollutant in an amount that is equal to or greater than the major source threshold for the PAL pollutant as defined by the Act for nonattainment areas. For example, in accordance with the definition of major stationary source in section 182( c) of the Act, an emissions unit would be a major emissions unit for VOC if the emissions unit is located in a serious ozone nonattainment area and it emits or has the potential to emit 50 or more tons of VOC per year. ( v) Plantwide applicability limitation ( PAL) means an emission limitation expressed in tons per year, for a pollutant at a major stationary source, that is enforceable as a practical matter and established source­ wide in accordance with paragraphs ( f)( 1) through ( f)( 15) of this section. ( vi) PAL effective date generally means the date of issuance of the PAL permit. However, the PAL effective date for an increased PAL is the date any emissions unit which is part of the PAL major modification becomes operational and begins to emit the PAL pollutant. ( vii) PAL effective period means the period beginning with the PAL effective date and ending 10 years later. ( viii) PAL major modification means, notwithstanding paragraphs ( a)( 1)( v) and ( vi) of this section ( the definitions for major modification and net emissions increase), any physical change in or change in the method of operation of the PAL source that causes it to emit the PAL pollutant at a level equal to or greater than the PAL. ( ix) PAL permit means the major NSR permit, the minor NSR permit, or the State operating permit under a program that is approved into the plan, or the title V permit issued by the reviewing authority that establishes a PAL for a major stationary source. ( x) PAL pollutant means the pollutant for which a PAL is established at a major stationary source. ( xi) Significant emissions unit means an emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit a PAL pollutant in an amount that is equal to or greater than the significant level ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( x) of this section or in the Act, whichever is lower) for that PAL pollutant, but less than the amount that would qualify the unit as a major emissions unit as defined in paragraph ( f)( 2)( iv) of this section. ( 3) Permit application requirements. As part of a permit application requesting a PAL, the owner or operator of a major stationary source shall submit the following information to the reviewing authority for approval: ( i) A list of all emissions units at the source designated as small, significant or major based on their potential to emit. In addition, the owner or operator of the source shall indicate which, if any, Federal or State applicable requirements, emission limitations or work practices apply to each unit. ( ii) Calculations of the baseline actual emissions ( with supporting documentation). Baseline actual emissions are to include emissions associated not only with operation of the unit, but also emissions associated with startup, shutdown and malfunction. ( iii) The calculation procedures that the major stationary source owner or operator proposes to use to convert the monitoring system data to monthly emissions and annual emissions based on a 12­ month rolling total for each month as required by paragraph ( f)( 13)( i) of this section. ( 4) General requirements for establishing PALs. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80256 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations ( i) The plan allows the reviewing authority to establish a PAL at a major stationary source, provided that at a minimum, the requirements in paragraphs ( f)( 4)( i)( A) through ( G) of this section are met. ( A) The PAL shall impose an annual emission limitation in tons per year, that is enforceable as a practical matter, for the entire major stationary source. For each month during the PAL effective period after the first 12 months of establishing a PAL, the major stationary source owner or operator shall show that the sum of the monthly emissions from each emissions unit under the PAL for the previous 12 consecutive months is less than the PAL ( a 12­ month average, rolled monthly). For each month during the first 11 months from the PAL effective date, the major stationary source owner or operator shall show that the sum of the preceding monthly emissions from the PAL effective date for each emissions unit under the PAL is less than the PAL. ( B) The PAL shall be established in a PAL permit that meets the public participation requirements in paragraph ( f)( 5) of this section. ( C) The PAL permit shall contain all the requirements of paragraph ( f)( 7) of this section. ( D) The PAL shall include fugitive emissions, to the extent quantifiable, from all emissions units that emit or have the potential to emit the PAL pollutant at the major stationary source. ( E) Each PAL shall regulate emissions of only one pollutant. ( F) Each PAL shall have a PAL effective period of 10 years. ( G) The owner or operator of the major stationary source with a PAL shall comply with the monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements provided in paragraphs ( f)( 12) through ( 14) of this section for each emissions unit under the PAL through the PAL effective period. ( ii) At no time ( during or after the PAL effective period) are emissions reductions of a PAL pollutant, which occur during the PAL effective period, creditable as decreases for purposes of offsets under paragraph ( a)( 3)( ii) of this section unless the level of the PAL is reduced by the amount of such emissions reductions and such reductions would be creditable in the absence of the PAL. ( 5) Public participation requirement for PALs. PALs for existing major stationary sources shall be established, renewed, or increased through a procedure that is consistent with § § 51.160 and 51.161 of this chapter. This includes the requirement that the reviewing authority provide the public with notice of the proposed approval of a PAL permit and at least a 30­ day period for submittal of public comment. The reviewing authority must address all material comments before taking final action on the permit. ( 6) Setting the 10­ year actuals PAL level. The plan shall provide that the actuals PAL level for a major stationary source shall be established as the sum of the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( a)( 1)( xxxv) of this section) of the PAL pollutant for each emissions unit at the source; plus an amount equal to the applicable significant level for the PAL pollutant under paragraph ( a)( 1)( x) of this section or under the Act, whichever is lower. When establishing the actuals PAL level, for a PAL pollutant, only one consecutive 24­ month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for all existing emissions units. However, a different consecutive 24­ month period may be used for each different PAL pollutant. Emissions associated with units that were permanently shutdown after this 24­ month period must be subtracted from the PAL level. Emissions from units on which actual construction began after the 24­ month period must be added to the PAL level in an amount equal to the potential to emit of the units. The reviewing authority shall specify a reduced PAL level( s) ( in tons/ yr) in the PAL permit to become effective on the future compliance date( s) of any applicable Federal or State regulatory requirement( s) that the reviewing authority is aware of prior to issuance of the PAL permit. For instance, if the source owner or operator will be required to reduce emissions from industrial boilers in half from baseline emissions of 60 ppm NOX to a new rule limit of 30 ppm, then the permit shall contain a future effective PAL level that is equal to the current PAL level reduced by half of the original baseline emissions of such unit( s). ( 7) Contents of the PAL permit. The plan shall require that the PAL permit contain, at a minimum, the information in paragraphs ( f)( 7)( i) through ( x) of this section. ( i) The PAL pollutant and the applicable source­ wide emission limitation in tons per year. ( ii) The PAL permit effective date and the expiration date of the PAL ( PAL effective period). ( iii) Specification in the PAL permit that if a major stationary source owner or operator applies to renew a PAL in accordance with paragraph ( f)( 10) of this section before the end of the PAL effective period, then the PAL shall not expire at the end of the PAL effective period. It shall remain in effect until a revised PAL permit is issued by the reviewing authority. ( iv) A requirement that emission calculations for compliance purposes include emissions from startups, shutdowns and malfunctions. ( v) A requirement that, once the PAL expires, the major stationary source is subject to the requirements of paragraph ( f)( 9) of this section. ( vi) The calculation procedures that the major stationary source owner or operator shall use to convert the monitoring system data to monthly emissions and annual emissions based on a 12­ month rolling total for each month as required by paragraph ( f)( 13)( i) of this section. ( vii) A requirement that the major stationary source owner or operator monitor all emissions units in accordance with the provisions under paragraph ( f)( 12) of this section. ( viii) A requirement to retain the records required under paragraph ( f)( 13) of this section on site. Such records may be retained in an electronic format. ( ix) A requirement to submit the reports required under paragraph ( f)( 14) of this section by the required deadlines. ( x) Any other requirements that the reviewing authority deems necessary to implement and enforce the PAL. ( 8) PAL effective period and reopening of the PAL permit. The plan shall require the information in paragraphs ( f)( 8)( i) and ( ii) of this section. ( i) PAL effective period. The reviewing authority shall specify a PAL effective period of 10 years. ( ii) Reopening of the PAL permit. ( A) During the PAL effective period, the plan shall require the reviewing authority to reopen the PAL permit to: ( 1) Correct typographical/ calculation errors made in setting the PAL or reflect a more accurate determination of emissions used to establish the PAL. ( 2) Reduce the PAL if the owner or operator of the major stationary source creates creditable emissions reductions for use as offsets under paragraph ( a)( 3)( ii) of this section. ( 3) Revise the PAL to reflect an increase in the PAL as provided under paragraph ( f)( 11) of this section. ( B) The plan shall provide the reviewing authority discretion to reopen the PAL permit for the following: ( 1) Reduce the PAL to reflect newly applicable Federal requirements ( for example, NSPS) with compliance dates after the PAL effective date. ( 2) Reduce the PAL consistent with any other requirement, that is enforceable as a practical matter, and VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80257 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations that the State may impose on the major stationary source under the plan. ( 3) Reduce the PAL if the reviewing authority determines that a reduction is necessary to avoid causing or contributing to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or to an adverse impact on an air quality related value that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which information is available to the general public. ( C) Except for the permit reopening in paragraph ( f)( 8)( ii)( A)( 1) of this section for the correction of typographical/ calculation errors that do not increase the PAL level, all other reopenings shall be carried out in accordance with the public participation requirements of paragraph ( f)( 5) of this section. ( 9) Expiration of a PAL. Any PAL which is not renewed in accordance with the procedures in paragraph ( f)( 10) of this section shall expire at the end of the PAL effective period, and the requirements in paragraphs ( f)( 9)( i) through ( v) of this section shall apply. ( i) Each emissions unit ( or each group of emissions units) that existed under the PAL shall comply with an allowable emission limitation under a revised permit established according to the procedures in paragraphs ( f)( 9)( i)( A) through ( B) of this section. ( A) Within the time frame specified for PAL renewals in paragraph ( f)( 10)( ii) of this section, the major stationary source shall submit a proposed allowable emission limitation for each emissions unit ( or each group of emissions units, if such a distribution is more appropriate as decided by the reviewing authority) by distributing the PAL allowable emissions for the major stationary source among each of the emissions units that existed under the PAL. If the PAL had not yet been adjusted for an applicable requirement that became effective during the PAL effective period, as required under paragraph ( f)( 10)( v) of this section, such distribution shall be made as if the PAL had been adjusted. ( B) The reviewing authority shall decide whether and how the PAL allowable emissions will be distributed and issue a revised permit incorporating allowable limits for each emissions unit, or each group of emissions units, as the reviewing authority determines is appropriate. ( ii) Each emissions unit( s) shall comply with the allowable emission limitation on a 12­ month rolling basis. The reviewing authority may approve the use of monitoring systems ( source testing, emission factors, etc.) other than CEMS, CERMS, PEMS or CPMS to demonstrate compliance with the allowable emission limitation. ( iii) Until the reviewing authority issues the revised permit incorporating allowable limits for each emissions unit, or each group of emissions units, as required under paragraph ( f)( 9)( i)( A) of this section, the source shall continue to comply with a source­ wide, multi­ unit emissions cap equivalent to the level of the PAL emission limitation. ( iv) Any physical change or change in the method of operation at the major stationary source will be subject to the nonattainment major NSR requirements if such change meets the definition of major modification in paragraph ( a)( 1)( v) of this section. ( v) The major stationary source owner or operator shall continue to comply with any State or Federal applicable requirements ( BACT, RACT, NSPS, etc.) that may have applied either during the PAL effective period or prior to the PAL effective period except for those emission limitations that had been established pursuant to paragraph ( a)( 5)( ii) of this section, but were eliminated by the PAL in accordance with the provisions in paragraph ( f)( 1)( iii)( C) of this section. ( 10) Renewal of a PAL. ( i) The reviewing authority shall follow the procedures specified in paragraph ( f)( 5) of this section in approving any request to renew a PAL for a major stationary source, and shall provide both the proposed PAL level and a written rationale for the proposed PAL level to the public for review and comment. During such public review, any person may propose a PAL level for the source for consideration by the reviewing authority. ( ii) Application deadline. The plan shall require that a major stationary source owner or operator shall submit a timely application to the reviewing authority to request renewal of a PAL. A timely application is one that is submitted at least 6 months prior to, but not earlier than 18 months from, the date of permit expiration. This deadline for application submittal is to ensure that the permit will not expire before the permit is renewed. If the owner or operator of a major stationary source submits a complete application to renew the PAL within this time period, then the PAL shall continue to be effective until the revised permit with the renewed PAL is issued. ( iii) Application requirements. The application to renew a PAL permit shall contain the information required in paragraphs ( f)( 10)( iii)( A) through ( D) of this section. ( A) The information required in paragraphs ( f)( 3)( i) through ( iii) of this section. ( B) A proposed PAL level. ( C) The sum of the potential to emit of all emissions units under the PAL ( with supporting documentation). ( D) Any other information the owner or operator wishes the reviewing authority to consider in determining the appropriate level for renewing the PAL. ( iv) PAL adjustment. In determining whether and how to adjust the PAL, the reviewing authority shall consider the options outlined in paragraphs ( f)( 10)( iv)( A) and ( B) of this section. However, in no case may any such adjustment fail to comply with paragraph ( f)( 10)( iv)( C) of this section. ( A) If the emissions level calculated in accordance with paragraph ( f)( 6) of this section is equal to or greater than 80 percent of the PAL level, the reviewing authority may renew the PAL at the same level without considering the factors set forth in paragraph ( f)( 10)( iv)( B) of this section; or ( B) The reviewing authority may set the PAL at a level that it determines to be more representative of the source's baseline actual emissions, or that it determines to be appropriate considering air quality needs, advances in control technology, anticipated economic growth in the area, desire to reward or encourage the source's voluntary emissions reductions, or other factors as specifically identified by the reviewing authority in its written rationale. ( C) Notwithstanding paragraphs ( f)( 10)( iv)( A) and ( B) of this section, ( 1) If the potential to emit of the major stationary source is less than the PAL, the reviewing authority shall adjust the PAL to a level no greater than the potential to emit of the source; and ( 2) The reviewing authority shall not approve a renewed PAL level higher than the current PAL, unless the major stationary source has complied with the provisions of paragraph ( f)( 11) of this section ( increasing a PAL). ( v) If the compliance date for a State or Federal requirement that applies to the PAL source occurs during the PAL effective period, and if the reviewing authority has not already adjusted for such requirement, the PAL shall be adjusted at the time of PAL permit renewal or title V permit renewal, whichever occurs first. ( 11) Increasing a PAL during the PAL effective period. ( i) The plan shall require that the reviewing authority may increase a PAL emission limitation only if the major stationary source complies with the VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00073 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80258 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations provisions in paragraphs ( f)( 11)( i)( A) through ( D) of this section. ( A) The owner or operator of the major stationary source shall submit a complete application to request an increase in the PAL limit for a PAL major modification. Such application shall identify the emissions unit( s) contributing to the increase in emissions so as to cause the major stationary source's emissions to equal or exceed its PAL. ( B) As part of this application, the major stationary source owner or operator shall demonstrate that the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the small emissions units, plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the significant and major emissions units assuming application of BACT equivalent controls, plus the sum of the allowable emissions of the new or modified emissions unit( s) exceeds the PAL. The level of control that would result from BACT equivalent controls on each significant or major emissions unit shall be determined by conducting a new BACT analysis at the time the application is submitted, unless the emissions unit is currently required to comply with a BACT or LAER requirement that was established within the preceding 10 years. In such a case, the assumed control level for that emissions unit shall be equal to the level of BACT or LAER with which that emissions unit must currently comply. ( C) The owner or operator obtains a major NSR permit for all emissions unit( s) identified in paragraph ( f)( 11)( i)( A) of this section, regardless of the magnitude of the emissions increase resulting from them ( that is, no significant levels apply). These emissions unit( s) shall comply with any emissions requirements resulting from the nonattainment major NSR program process ( for example, LAER), even though they have also become subject to the PAL or continue to be subject to the PAL. ( D) The PAL permit shall require that the increased PAL level shall be effective on the day any emissions unit that is part of the PAL major modification becomes operational and begins to emit the PAL pollutant. ( ii) The reviewing authority shall calculate the new PAL as the sum of the allowable emissions for each modified or new emissions unit, plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the significant and major emissions units ( assuming application of BACT equivalent controls as determined in accordance with paragraph ( f)( 11)( i)( B)), plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the small emissions units. ( iii) The PAL permit shall be revised to reflect the increased PAL level pursuant to the public notice requirements of paragraph ( f)( 5) of this section. ( 12) Monitoring requirements for PALs. ( i) General Requirements. ( A) Each PAL permit must contain enforceable requirements for the monitoring system that accurately determines plantwide emissions of the PAL pollutant in terms of mass per unit of time. Any monitoring system authorized for use in the PAL permit must be based on sound science and meet generally acceptable scientific procedures for data quality and manipulation. Additionally, the information generated by such system must meet minimum legal requirements for admissibility in a judicial proceeding to enforce the PAL permit. ( B) The PAL monitoring system must employ one or more of the four general monitoring approaches meeting the minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs ( f)( 12)( ii)( A) through ( D) of this section and must be approved by the reviewing authority. ( C) Notwithstanding paragraph ( f)( 12)( i)( B) of this section, you may also employ an alternative monitoring approach that meets paragraph ( f)( 12)( i)( A) of this section if approved by the reviewing authority. ( D) Failure to use a monitoring system that meets the requirements of this section renders the PAL invalid. ( ii) Minimum Performance Requirements for Approved Monitoring Approaches. The following are acceptable general monitoring approaches when conducted in accordance with the minimum requirements in paragraphs ( f)( 12)( iii) through ( ix) of this section: ( A) Mass balance calculations for activities using coatings or solvents; ( B) CEMS; ( C) CPMS or PEMS; and ( D) Emission Factors. ( iii) Mass Balance Calculations. An owner or operator using mass balance calculations to monitor PAL pollutant emissions from activities using coating or solvents shall meet the following requirements: ( A) Provide a demonstrated means of validating the published content of the PAL pollutant that is contained in or created by all materials used in or at the emissions unit; ( B) Assume that the emissions unit emits all of the PAL pollutant that is contained in or created by any raw material or fuel used in or at the emissions unit, if it cannot otherwise be accounted for in the process; and ( C) Where the vendor of a material or fuel, which is used in or at the emissions unit, publishes a range of pollutant content from such material, the owner or operator must use the highest value of the range to calculate the PAL pollutant emissions unless the reviewing authority determines there is site­ specific data or a site­ specific monitoring program to support another content within the range. ( iv) CEMS. An owner or operator using CEMS to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the following requirements: ( A) CEMS must comply with applicable Performance Specifications found in 40 CFR part 60, appendix B; and ( B) CEMS must sample, analyze and record data at least every 15 minutes while the emissions unit is operating. ( v) CPMS or PEMS. An owner or operator using CPMS or PEMS to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the following requirements: ( A) The CPMS or the PEMS must be based on current site­ specific data demonstrating a correlation between the monitored parameter( s) and the PAL pollutant emissions across the range of operation of the emissions unit; and ( B) Each CPMS or PEMS must sample, analyze, and record data at least every 15 minutes, or at another less frequent interval approved by the reviewing authority, while the emissions unit is operating. ( vi) Emission factors. An owner or operator using emission factors to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the following requirements: ( A) All emission factors shall be adjusted, if appropriate, to account for the degree of uncertainty or limitations in the factors' development; ( B) The emissions unit shall operate within the designated range of use for the emission factor, if applicable; and ( C) If technically practicable, the owner or operator of a significant emissions unit that relies on an emission factor to calculate PAL pollutant emissions shall conduct validation testing to determine a sitespecific emission factor within 6 months of PAL permit issuance, unless the reviewing authority determines that testing is not required. ( vii) A source owner or operator must record and report maximum potential emissions without considering enforceable emission limitations or operational restrictions for an emissions unit during any period of time that there is no monitoring data, unless another method for determining emissions during such periods is specified in the PAL permit. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00074 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80259 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations ( viii) Notwithstanding the requirements in paragraphs ( f)( 12)( iii) through ( vii) of this section, where an owner or operator of an emissions unit cannot demonstrate a correlation between the monitored parameter( s) and the PAL pollutant emissions rate at all operating points of the emissions unit, the reviewing authority shall, at the time of permit issuance: ( A) Establish default value( s) for determining compliance with the PAL based on the highest potential emissions reasonably estimated at such operating point( s); or ( B) Determine that operation of the emissions unit during operating conditions when there is no correlation between monitored parameter( s) and the PAL pollutant emissions is a violation of the PAL. ( ix) Re­ validation. All data used to establish the PAL pollutant must be revalidated through performance testing or other scientifically valid means approved by the reviewing authority. Such testing must occur at least once every 5 years after issuance of the PAL. ( 13) Recordkeeping requirements. ( i) The PAL permit shall require an owner or operator to retain a copy of all records necessary to determine compliance with any requirement of paragraph ( f) of this section and of the PAL, including a determination of each emissions unit's 12­ month rolling total emissions, for 5 years from the date of such record. ( ii) The PAL permit shall require an owner or operator to retain a copy of the following records for the duration of the PAL effective period plus 5 years: ( A) A copy of the PAL permit application and any applications for revisions to the PAL; and ( B) Each annual certification of compliance pursuant to title V and the data relied on in certifying the compliance. ( 14) Reporting and notification requirements. The owner or operator shall submit semi­ annual monitoring reports and prompt deviation reports to the reviewing authority in accordance with the applicable title V operating permit program. The reports shall meet the requirements in paragraphs ( f)( 14)( i) through ( iii). ( i) Semi­ Annual Report. The semiannual report shall be submitted to the reviewing authority within 30 days of the end of each reporting period. This report shall contain the information required in paragraphs ( f)( 14)( i)( A) through ( G) of this section. ( A) The identification of owner and operator and the permit number. ( B) Total annual emissions ( tons/ year) based on a 12­ month rolling total for each month in the reporting period recorded pursuant to paragraph ( f)( 13)( i) of this section. ( C) All data relied upon, including, but not limited to, any Quality Assurance or Quality Control data, in calculating the monthly and annual PAL pollutant emissions. ( D) A list of any emissions units modified or added to the major stationary source during the preceding 6­ month period. ( E) The number, duration, and cause of any deviations or monitoring malfunctions ( other than the time associated with zero and span calibration checks), and any corrective action taken. ( F) A notification of a shutdown of any monitoring system, whether the shutdown was permanent or temporary, the reason for the shutdown, the anticipated date that the monitoring system will be fully operational or replaced with another monitoring system, and whether the emissions unit monitored by the monitoring system continued to operate, and the calculation of the emissions of the pollutant or the number determined by method included in the permit, as provided by paragraph ( f)( 12)( vii) of this section. ( G) A signed statement by the responsible official ( as defined by the applicable title V operating permit program) certifying the truth, accuracy, and completeness of the information provided in the report. ( ii) Deviation report. The major stationary source owner or operator shall promptly submit reports of any deviations or exceedance of the PAL requirements, including periods where no monitoring is available. A report submitted pursuant to § 70.6( a)( 3)( iii)( B) of this chapter shall satisfy this reporting requirement. The deviation reports shall be submitted within the time limits prescribed by the applicable program implementing § 70.6( a)( 3)( iii)( B) of this chapter. The reports shall contain the following information: ( A) The identification of owner and operator and the permit number; ( B) The PAL requirement that experienced the deviation or that was exceeded; ( C) Emissions resulting from the deviation or the exceedance; and ( D) A signed statement by the responsible official ( as defined by the applicable title V operating permit program) certifying the truth, accuracy, and completeness of the information provided in the report. ( iii) Re­ validation results. The owner or operator shall submit to the reviewing authority the results of any re­ validation test or method within 3 months after completion of such test or method. ( 15) Transition requirements. ( i) No reviewing authority may issue a PAL that does not comply with the requirements in paragraphs ( f)( 1) through ( 15) of this section after the Administrator has approved regulations incorporating these requirements into a plan. ( ii) The reviewing authority may supersede any PAL which was established prior to the date of approval of the plan by the Administrator with a PAL that complies with the requirements of paragraphs ( f)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. ( g) If any provision of this section, or the application of such provision to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the remainder of this section, or the application of such provision to persons or circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid, shall not be affected thereby. 5. In 40 CFR 51.166( b)( 1)( i)( b) and ( b)( 5), remove the words `` any air pollutant subject to regulation under the Act,'' and add, in their place, the words `` a regulated NSR pollutant.'' 6. In addition to the amendments set forth above, section 51.166 is amended: a. By revising paragraph ( a)( 1). b. By revising paragraph ( a)( 6)( i). c. By adding paragraph ( a)( 7). d. By revising paragraphs ( b)( 2)( i) and ( ii). e. By revising paragraph ( b)( 2)( iii)( h). f. By adding paragraph ( b)( 2)( iv). g. By revising paragraph ( b)( 3)( i). h. By revising paragraphs ( b)( 3)( iii) and ( iv). i. By revising paragraphs ( b)( 3)( vi)( b) and ( c). j. By adding paragraph ( b)( 3)( vi)( d). k. By adding paragraph ( b)( 3)( viii). l. By revising paragraphs ( b)( 7) and ( 8). m. By revising paragraph ( b)( 13). n. By revising paragraph ( b)( 21). o. By removing the following from paragraph ( b)( 23)( i): Asbestos: 0.007 tpy; Beryllium: 0.0004 tpy; Mercury: 0.1 tpy; and Vinyl Chloride: 1 tpy. p. By revising paragraph ( b)( 31). q. By reserving paragraph ( b)( 32). r. By adding paragraphs ( b)( 38) through ( 52). s. By revising the introductory text of paragraph ( i). t. By removing paragraphs ( i)( 1) through ( 3). u. By re­ designating paragraphs ( i)( 4) through ( 12) as paragraphs ( i)( 1) through ( 9). v. By revising newly redesignated paragraphs ( i)( 5)( i)( g) through ( j). VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00075 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80260 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations w. By removing newly redesignated paragraphs ( i)( 5)( i)( k) through ( m). x. By adding paragraphs ( r)( 3) through ( 7). y. By adding paragraphs ( t) through ( x). 7. In addition to the amendments set forth above, in 40 CFR 51.166, remove the words `` pollutant subject to regulation under the Act'' and add, in their place, the words `` a regulated NSR pollutant'' in the following places: a. ( b)( 1)( i)( a); c. ( b)( 12); d. ( b)( 23)( ii); e. newly redesignated ( i)( 4); and f. ( j)( 2) and ( 3). The revisions and additions read as follows: § 51.166 Prevention of significant deterioration of air quality. ( a)( 1) Plan requirements. In accordance with the policy of section 101( b)( 1) of the Act and the purposes of section 160 of the Act, each applicable State Implementation Plan and each applicable Tribal Implementation Plan shall contain emission limitations and such other measures as may be necessary to prevent significant deterioration of air quality. * * * * * ( 6) * * * ( i) Any State required to revise its implementation plan by reason of an amendment to this section, including any amendment adopted simultaneously with this paragraph ( a)( 6)( i), shall adopt and submit such plan revision to the Administrator for approval no later than three years after such amendment is published in the Federal Register. * * * * * ( 7) Applicability. Each plan shall contain procedures that incorporate the requirements in paragraphs ( a)( 7)( i) through ( vi) of this section. ( i) The requirements of this section apply to the construction of any new major stationary source ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 1) of this section) or any project at an existing major stationary source in an area designated as attainment or unclassifiable under sections 107( d)( 1)( A)( ii) or ( iii) of the Act. ( ii) The requirements of paragraphs ( j) through ( r) of this section apply to the construction of any new major stationary source or the major modification of any existing major stationary source, except as this section otherwise provides. ( iii) No new major stationary source or major modification to which the requirements of paragraphs ( j) through ( r)( 5) of this section apply shall begin actual construction without a permit that states that the major stationary source or major modification will meet those requirements. ( iv) Each plan shall use the specific provisions of paragraphs ( a)( 7)( iv)( a) through ( f) of this section. Deviations from these provisions will be approved only if the State specifically demonstrates that the submitted provisions are more stringent than or at least as stringent in all respects as the corresponding provisions in paragraphs ( a)( 7)( iv)( a) through ( f) of this section. ( a) Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs ( a)( 7)( v) and ( vi) of this section, and consistent with the definition of major modification contained in paragraph ( b)( 2) of this section, a project is a major modification for a regulated NSR pollutant if it causes two types of emissions increases a significant emissions increase ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 39) of this section), and a significant net emissions increase ( as defined in paragraphs ( b)( 3) and ( b)( 23) of this section). The project is not a major modification if it does not cause a significant emissions increase. If the project causes a significant emissions increase, then the project is a major modification only if it also results in a significant net emissions increase. ( b) The procedure for calculating ( before beginning actual construction) whether a significant emissions increase ( i. e., the first step of the process) will occur depends upon the type of emissions units being modified, according to paragraphs ( a)( 7)( iv)( c) through ( f) of this section. The procedure for calculating ( before beginning actual construction) whether a significant net emissions increase will occur at the major stationary source ( i. e., the second step of the process) is contained in the definition in paragraph ( b)( 3) of this section. Regardless of any such preconstruction projections, a major modification results if the project causes a significant emissions increase and a significant net emissions increase. ( c) Actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test for projects that only involve existing emissions units. A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the difference between the projected actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 40) of this section) and the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraphs ( b)( 47)( i) and ( ii) of this section) for each existing emissions unit, equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section). ( d) Actual­ to­ potential test for projects that only involve construction of a new emissions unit( s). A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the difference between the potential to emit ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 4) of this section) from each new emissions unit following completion of the project and the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 47)( iii) of this section) of these units before the project equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section). ( e) Emission test for projects that involve Clean Units. For a project that will be constructed and operated at a Clean Unit without causing the emissions unit to lose its Clean Unit designation, no emissions increase is deemed to occur. ( f) Hybrid test for projects that involve multiple types of emissions units. A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the emissions increases for each emissions unit, using the method specified in paragraphs ( a)( 7)( iv)( c) through ( e) of this section as applicable with respect to each emissions unit, for each type of emissions unit equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section). For example, if a project involves both an existing emissions unit and a Clean Unit, the projected increase is determined by summing the values determined using the method specified in paragraph ( a)( 7)( iv)( c) of this section for the existing unit and determined using the method specified in paragraph ( a)( 7)( iv)( e) of this section for the Clean Unit. ( v) The plan shall require that for any major stationary source for a PAL for a regulated NSR pollutant, the major stationary source shall comply with requirements under paragraph ( w) of this section. ( vi) The plan shall require that an owner or operator undertaking a PCP ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 31) of this section) shall comply with the requirements under paragraph ( v) of this section. * * * * * ( b) * * * ( 2)( i) Major modification means any physical change in or change in the method of operation of a major stationary source that would result in: a significant emissions increase ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 39) of this section) of a regulated NSR pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 49) of this VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00076 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80261 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations section); and a significant net emissions increase of that pollutant from the major stationary source. ( ii) Any significant emissions increase ( as defined at paragraph ( b)( 39) of this section) from any emissions units or net emissions increase ( as defined at paragraph ( b)( 3) of this section) at a major stationary source that is significant for volatile organic compounds shall be considered significant for ozone. ( iii) * * * ( h) The addition, replacement, or use of a PCP, as defined in paragraph ( b)( 31) of this section, at an existing emissions unit meeting the requirements of paragraph ( v) of this section. A replacement control technology must provide more effective emission control than that of the replaced control technology to qualify for this exclusion. * * * * * ( iv) This definition shall not apply with respect to a particular regulated NSR pollutant when the major stationary source is complying with the requirements under paragraph ( w) of this section for a PAL for that pollutant. Instead, the definition at paragraph ( w)( 2)( viii) of this section shall apply. ( 3)( i) Net emissions increase means, with respect to any regulated NSR pollutant emitted by a major stationary source, the amount by which the sum of the following exceeds zero: ( a) The increase in emissions from a particular physical change or change in the method of operation at a stationary source as calculated pursuant to paragraph ( a)( 7)( iv) of this section; and ( b) Any other increases and decreases in actual emissions at the major stationary source that are contemporaneous with the particular change and are otherwise creditable. Baseline actual emissions for calculating increases and decreases under this paragraph ( b)( 3)( i)( b) shall be determined as provided in paragraph ( b)( 47), except that paragraphs ( b)( 47)( i)( c) and ( b)( 47)( ii)( d) of this section shall not apply. * * * * * ( iii) An increase or decrease in actual emissions is creditable only if: ( a) It occurs within a reasonable period ( to be specified by the reviewing authority); and ( b) The reviewing authority has not relied on it in issuing a permit for the source under regulations approved pursuant to this section, which permit is in effect when the increase in actual emissions from the particular change occurs; and ( c) The increase or decrease in emissions did not occur at a Clean Unit, except as provided in paragraphs ( t)( 8) and ( u)( 10) of this section. ( iv) An increase or decrease in actual emissions of sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, or nitrogen oxides that occurs before the applicable minor source baseline date is creditable only if it is required to be considered in calculating the amount of maximum allowable increases remaining available. * * * * * ( vi) * * * ( b) It is enforceable as a practical matter at and after the time that actual construction on the particular change begins; ( c) It has approximately the same qualitative significance for public health and welfare as that attributed to the increase from the particular change; and ( d) The decrease in actual emissions did not result from the installation of add­ on control technology or application of pollution prevention practices that were relied on in designating an emissions unit as a Clean Unit under § 52.21( y) or under regulations approved pursuant to paragraph ( u) of this section or § 51.165( d). That is, once an emissions unit has been designated as a Clean Unit, the owner or operator cannot later use the emissions reduction from the air pollution control measures that the Clean Unit designation is based on in calculating the net emissions increase for another emissions unit ( i. e., must not use that reduction in a `` netting analysis'' for another emissions unit). However, any new emissions reductions that were not relied upon in a PCP excluded pursuant to paragraph ( v) of this section or for the Clean Unit designation are creditable to the extent they meet the requirements in paragraph ( v)( 6)( iv) of this section for the PCP and paragraph ( t)( 8) or ( u)( 10) of this section for a Clean Unit. * * * * * ( viii) Paragraph ( b)( 21)( ii) of this section shall not apply for determining creditable increases and decreases. * * * * * ( 7) Emissions unit means any part of a stationary source that emits or would have the potential to emit any regulated NSR pollutant and includes an electric utility steam generating unit as defined in paragraph ( b)( 30) of this section. For purposes of this section, there are two types of emissions units as described in paragraphs ( b)( 7)( i) and ( ii) of this section. ( i) A new emissions unit is any emissions unit that is ( or will be) newly constructed and that has existed for less than 2 years from the date such emissions unit first operated. ( ii) An existing emissions unit is any emissions unit that does not meet the requirements in paragraph ( b)( 7)( i) of this section. ( 8) Construction means any physical change or change in the method of operation ( including fabrication, erection, installation, demolition, or modification of an emissions unit) that would result in a change in emissions. * * * * * ( 13)( i) Baseline concentration means that ambient concentration level that exists in the baseline area at the time of the applicable minor source baseline date. A baseline concentration is determined for each pollutant for which a minor source baseline date is established and shall include: ( a) The actual emissions, as defined in paragraph ( b)( 21) of this section, representative of sources in existence on the applicable minor source baseline date, except as provided in paragraph ( b)( 13)( ii) of this section; ( b) The allowable emissions of major stationary sources that commenced construction before the major source baseline date, but were not in operation by the applicable minor source baseline date. ( ii) The following will not be included in the baseline concentration and will affect the applicable maximum allowable increase( s): ( a) Actual emissions, as defined in paragraph ( b)( 21) of this section, from any major stationary source on which construction commenced after the major source baseline date; and ( b) Actual emissions increases and decreases, as defined in paragraph ( b)( 21) of this section, at any stationary source occurring after the minor source baseline date. * * * * * ( 21)( i) Actual emissions means the actual rate of emissions of a regulated NSR pollutant from an emissions unit, as determined in accordance with paragraphs ( b)( 21)( ii) through ( iv) of this section, except that this definition shall not apply for calculating whether a significant emissions increase has occurred, or for establishing a PAL under paragraph ( w) of this section. Instead, paragraphs ( b)( 40) and ( b)( 47) of this section shall apply for those purposes. ( ii) In general, actual emissions as of a particular date shall equal the average rate, in tons per year, at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during a consecutive 24­ month period which precedes the particular date and which is representative of normal source operation. The reviewing authority shall allow the use of a different time period VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00077 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80262 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source operation. Actual emissions shall be calculated using the unit's actual operating hours, production rates, and types of materials processed, stored, or combusted during the selected time period. ( iii) The reviewing authority may presume that source­ specific allowable emissions for the unit are equivalent to the actual emissions of the unit. ( iv) For any emissions unit that has not begun normal operations on the particular date, actual emissions shall equal the potential to emit of the unit on that date. * * * * * ( 31) Pollution control project ( PCP) means any activity, set of work practices or project ( including pollution prevention as defined under paragraph ( b)( 38) of this section) undertaken at an existing emissions unit that reduces emissions of air pollutants from such unit. Such qualifying activities or projects can include the replacement or upgrade of an existing emissions control technology with a more effective unit. Other changes that may occur at the source are not considered part of the PCP if they are not necessary to reduce emissions through the PCP. Projects listed in paragraphs ( b)( 31)( i) through ( vi) of this section are presumed to be environmentally beneficial pursuant to paragraph ( v)( 2)( i) of this section. Projects not listed in these paragraphs may qualify for a case­ specific PCP exclusion pursuant to the requirements of paragraphs ( v)( 2) and ( v)( 5) of this section. ( i) Conventional or advanced flue gas desulfurization or sorbent injection for control of SO2. ( ii) Electrostatic precipitators, baghouses, high efficiency multiclones, or scrubbers for control of particulate matter or other pollutants. ( iii) Flue gas recirculation, low­ NOX burners or combustors, selective noncatalytic reduction, selective catalytic reduction, low emission combustion ( for IC engines), and oxidation/ absorption catalyst for control of NOX. ( iv) Regenerative thermal oxidizers, catalytic oxidizers, condensers, thermal incinerators, hydrocarbon combustion flares, biofiltration, absorbers and adsorbers, and floating roofs for storage vessels for control of volatile organic compounds or hazardous air pollutants. For the purpose of this section, `` hydrocarbon combustion flare'' means either a flare used to comply with an applicable NSPS or MACT standard ( including uses of flares during startup, shutdown, or malfunction permitted under such a standard), or a flare that serves to control emissions of waste streams comprised predominately of hydrocarbons and containing no more than 230 mg/ dscm hydrogen sulfide. ( v) Activities or projects undertaken to accommodate switching ( or partially switching) to an inherently less polluting fuel, to be limited to the following fuel switches: ( a) Switching from a heavier grade of fuel oil to a lighter fuel oil, or any grade of oil to 0.05 percent sulfur diesel ( i. e., from a higher sulfur content # 2 fuel or from # 6 fuel, to CA 0.05 percent sulfur # 2 diesel); ( b) Switching from coal, oil, or any solid fuel to natural gas, propane, or gasified coal; ( c) Switching from coal to wood, excluding construction or demolition waste, chemical or pesticide treated wood, and other forms of `` unclean'' wood; ( d) Switching from coal to # 2 fuel oil ( 0.5 percent maximum sulfur content); and ( e) Switching from high sulfur coal to low sulfur coal ( maximum 1.2 percent sulfur content). ( vi) Activities or projects undertaken to accommodate switching from the use of one ozone depleting substance ( ODS) to the use of a substance with a lower or zero ozone depletion potential ( ODP), including changes to equipment needed to accommodate the activity or project, that meet the requirements of paragraphs ( b)( 31)( vi)( a) and ( b) of this section. ( a) The productive capacity of the equipment is not increased as a result of the activity or project. ( b) The projected usage of the new substance is lower, on an ODP­ weighted basis, than the baseline usage of the replaced ODS. To make this determination, follow the procedure in paragraphs ( b)( 31)( vi)( b)( 1) through ( 4) of this section. ( 1) Determine the ODP of the substances by consulting 40 CFR part 82, subpart A, appendices A and B. ( 2) Calculate the replaced ODPweighted amount by multiplying the baseline actual usage ( using the annualized average of any 24 consecutive months of usage within the past 10 years) by the ODP of the replaced ODS. ( 3) Calculate the projected ODPweighted amount by multiplying the projected annual usage of the new substance by its ODP. ( 4) If the value calculated in paragraph ( b)( 31)( vi)( b)( 2) of this section is more than the value calculated in paragraph ( b)( 31)( vi)( b)( 3) of this section, then the projected use of the new substance is lower, on an ODPweighted basis, than the baseline usage of the replaced ODS. ( 32) [ Reserved] * * * * * ( 38) Pollution prevention means any activity that through process changes, product reformulation or redesign, or substitution of less polluting raw materials, eliminates or reduces the release of air pollutants ( including fugitive emissions) and other pollutants to the environment prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal; it does not mean recycling ( other than certain `` in­ process recycling'' practices), energy recovery, treatment, or disposal. ( 39) Significant emissions increase means, for a regulated NSR pollutant, an increase in emissions that is significant ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section) for that pollutant. ( 40)( i) Projected actual emissions means the maximum annual rate, in tons per year, at which an existing emissions unit is projected to emit a regulated NSR pollutant in any one of the 5 years ( 12­ month period) following the date the unit resumes regular operation after the project, or in any one of the 10 years following that date, if the project involves increasing the emissions unit's design capacity or its potential to emit that regulated NSR pollutant, and full utilization of the unit would result in a significant emissions increase, or a significant net emissions increase at the major stationary source. ( ii) In determining the projected actual emissions under paragraph ( b)( 40)( i) of this section ( before beginning actual construction), the owner or operator of the major stationary source: ( a) Shall consider all relevant information, including but not limited to, historical operational data, the company's own representations, the company's expected business activity and the company's highest projections of business activity, the company's filings with the State or Federal regulatory authorities, and compliance plans under the approved plan; and ( b) Shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable and emissions associated with startups, shutdowns, and malfunctions; and ( c) Shall exclude, in calculating any increase in emissions that results from the particular project, that portion of the unit's emissions following the project that an existing unit could have accommodated during the consecutive 24­ month period used to establish the baseline actual emissions under paragraph ( b)( 47) of this section and that are also unrelated to the particular VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00078 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80263 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations project, including any increased utilization due to product demand growth; or, ( d) In lieu of using the method set out in paragraphs ( b)( 40)( ii)( a) through ( c) of this section, may elect to use the emissions unit's potential to emit, in tons per year, as defined under paragraph ( b)( 4) of this section. ( 41) Clean Unit means any emissions unit that has been issued a major NSR permit that requires compliance with BACT or LAER, is complying with such BACT/ LAER requirements, and qualifies as a Clean Unit pursuant to regulations approved by the Administrator in accordance with paragraph ( t) of this section; or any emissions unit that has been designated by a reviewing authority as a Clean Unit, based on the criteria in paragraphs ( u)( 3)( i) through ( iv) of this section, using a planapproved permitting process; or any emissions unit that has been designated as a Clean Unit by the Administrator in accordance with 52.21 ( y)( 3)( i) through ( iv) of this chapter. ( 42) Prevention of Significant Deterioration Program ( PSD) program means a major source preconstruction permit program that has been approved by the Administrator and incorporated into the plan to implement the requirements of this section, or the program in § 52.21 of this chapter. Any permit issued under such a program is a major NSR permit. ( 43) Continuous emissions monitoring system ( CEMS) means all of the equipment that may be required to meet the data acquisition and availability requirements of this section, to sample, condition ( if applicable), analyze, and provide a record of emissions on a continuous basis. ( 44) Predictive emissions monitoring system ( PEMS) means all of the equipment necessary to monitor process and control device operational parameters ( for example, control device secondary voltages and electric currents) and other information ( for example, gas flow rate, O2 or CO2 concentrations), and calculate and record the mass emissions rate ( for example, lb/ hr) on a continuous basis. ( 45) Continuous parameter monitoring system ( CPMS) means all of the equipment necessary to meet the data acquisition and availability requirements of this section, to monitor process and control device operational parameters ( for example, control device secondary voltages and electric currents) and other information ( for example, gas flow rate, O2 or CO2 concentrations), and to record average operational parameter value( s) on a continuous basis. ( 46) Continuous emissions rate monitoring system ( CERMS) means the total equipment required for the determination and recording of the pollutant mass emissions rate ( in terms of mass per unit of time). ( 47) Baseline actual emissions means the rate of emissions, in tons per year, of a regulated NSR pollutant, as determined in accordance with paragraphs ( b)( 47)( i) through ( iv) of this section. ( i) For any existing electric utility steam generating unit, baseline actual emissions means the average rate, in tons per year, at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during any consecutive 24­ month period selected by the owner or operator within the 5­ year period immediately preceding when the owner or operator begins actual construction of the project. The reviewing authority shall allow the use of a different time period upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source operation. ( a) The average rate shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions associated with startups, shutdowns, and malfunctions. ( b) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any noncompliant emissions that occurred while the source was operating above an emission limitation that was legally enforceable during the consecutive 24­ month period. ( c) For a regulated NSR pollutant, when a project involves multiple emissions units, only one consecutive 24­ month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for the emissions units being changed. A different consecutive 24­ month period can be used For each regulated NSR pollutant. ( d) The average rate shall not be based on any consecutive 24­ month period for which there is inadequate information for determining annual emissions, in tons per year, and for adjusting this amount if required by paragraph ( b)( 47)( i)( b) of this section. ( ii) For an existing emissions unit ( other than an electric utility steam generating unit), baseline actual emissions means the average rate, in tons per year, at which the emissions unit actually emitted the pollutant during any consecutive 24­ month period selected by the owner or operator within the 10­ year period immediately preceding either the date the owner or operator begins actual construction of the project, or the date a complete permit application is received by the reviewing authority for a permit required either under this section or under a plan approved by the Administrator, whichever is earlier, except that the 10­ year period shall not include any period earlier than November 15, 1990. ( a) The average rate shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions associated with startups, shutdowns, and malfunctions. ( b) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any noncompliant emissions that occurred while the source was operating above an emission limitation that was legally enforceable during the consecutive 24­ month period. ( c) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any emissions that would have exceeded an emission limitation with which the major stationary source must currently comply, had such major stationary source been required to comply with such limitations during the consecutive 24­ month period. However, if an emission limitation is part of a maximum achievable control technology standard that the Administrator proposed or promulgated under part 63 of this chapter, the baseline actual emissions need only be adjusted if the State has taken credit for such emissions reductions in an attainment demonstration or maintenance plan consistent with the requirements of § 51.165( a)( 3)( ii)( G). ( d) For a regulated NSR pollutant, when a project involves multiple emissions units, only one consecutive 24­ month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for the emissions units being changed. A different consecutive 24­ month period can be used For each regulated NSR pollutant. ( e) The average rate shall not be based on any consecutive 24­ month period for which there is inadequate information for determining annual emissions, in tons per year, and for adjusting this amount if required by paragraphs ( b)( 47)( ii)( b) and ( c) of this section. ( iii) For a new emissions unit, the baseline actual emissions for purposes of determining the emissions increase that will result from the initial construction and operation of such unit shall equal zero; and thereafter, for all other purposes, shall equal the unit's potential to emit. ( iv) For a PAL for a stationary source, the baseline actual emissions shall be calculated for existing electric utility steam generating units in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph ( b)( 47)( i) of this section, for other existing emissions units in VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00079 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80264 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph ( b)( 47)( ii) of this section, and for a new emissions unit in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph ( b)( 47)( iii) of this section. ( 48) [ Reserved] ( 49) Regulated NSR pollutant, for purposes of this section, means the following: ( i) Any pollutant for which a national ambient air quality standard has been promulgated and any constituents or precursors for such pollutants identified by the Administrator ( e. g., volatile organic compounds are precursors for ozone); ( ii) Any pollutant that is subject to any standard promulgated under section 111 of the Act; ( iii) Any Class I or II substance subject to a standard promulgated under or established by title VI of the Act; or ( iv) Any pollutant that otherwise is subject to regulation under the Act; except that any or all hazardous air pollutants either listed in section 112 of the Act or added to the list pursuant to section 112( b)( 2) of the Act, which have not been delisted pursuant to section 112( b)( 3) of the Act, are not regulated NSR pollutants unless the listed hazardous air pollutant is also regulated as a constituent or precursor of a general pollutant listed under section 108 of the Act. ( 50) Reviewing authority means the State air pollution control agency, local agency, other State agency, Indian tribe, or other agency authorized by the Administrator to carry out a permit program under § 51.165 and this section, or the Administrator in the case of EPA­ implemented permit programs under § 52.21 of this chapter. ( 51) Project means a physical change in, or change in method of operation of, an existing major stationary source. ( 52) Lowest achievable emission rate ( LAER) is as defined in § 51.165( a)( 1)( xiii). * * * * * ( i) Exemptions. * * * * * ( 5) * * * ( i) * * * ( g) Fluorides 0.25 µ g/ m3, 24­ hour average; ( h) Total reduced sulfur 10 µ g/ m3, 1­ hour average ( i) Hydrogen sulfide 0.2 µ g/ m3, 1­ hour average; ( j) Reduced sulfur compounds 10 µ g/ m3, 1­ hour average; or * * * * * ( r) * * * ( 3) [ Reserved] ( 4) [ Reserved] ( 5) [ Reserved] ( 6) Each plan shall provide that the following specific provisions apply to projects at existing emissions units at a major stationary source ( other than projects at a Clean Unit or at a source with a PAL) in circumstances where there is a reasonable possibility that a project that is not a part of a major modification may result in a significant emissions increase and the owner or operator elects to use the method specified in paragraphs ( b)( 40)( ii)( a) through ( c) of this section for calculating projected actual emissions. Deviations from these provisions will be approved only if the State specifically demonstrates that the submitted provisions are more stringent than or at least as stringent in all respects as the corresponding provisions in paragraphs ( r)( 6)( i) through ( v) of this section. ( i) Before beginning actual construction of the project, the owner or operator shall document and maintain a record of the following information: ( a) A description of the project; ( b) Identification of the emissions unit( s) whose emissions of a regulated NSR pollutant could be affected by the project; and ( c) A description of the applicability test used to determine that the project is not a major modification for any regulated NSR pollutant, including the baseline actual emissions, the projected actual emissions, the amount of emissions excluded under paragraph ( b)( 40)( ii)( c) of this section and an explanation for why such amount was excluded, and any netting calculations, if applicable. ( ii) If the emissions unit is an existing electric utility steam generating unit, before beginning actual construction, the owner or operator shall provide a copy of the information set out in paragraph ( r)( 6)( i) of this section to the reviewing authority. Nothing in this paragraph ( r)( 6)( ii) shall be construed to require the owner or operator of such a unit to obtain any determination from the reviewing authority before beginning actual construction. ( iii) The owner or operator shall monitor the emissions of any regulated NSR pollutant that could increase as a result of the project and that is emitted by any emissions unit identified in paragraph ( r)( 6)( i)( b) of this section; and calculate and maintain a record of the annual emissions, in tons per year on a calendar year basis, for a period of 5 years following resumption of regular operations after the change, or for a period of 10 years following resumption of regular operations after the change if the project increases the design capacity or potential to emit of that regulated NSR pollutant at such emissions unit. ( iv) If the unit is an existing electric utility steam generating unit, the owner or operator shall submit a report to the reviewing authority within 60 days after the end of each year during which records must be generated under paragraph ( r)( 6)( iii) of this section setting out the unit's annual emissions during the calendar year that preceded submission of the report. ( v) If the unit is an existing unit other than an electric utility steam generating unit, the owner or operator shall submit a report to the reviewing authority if the annual emissions, in tons per year, from the project identified in paragraph ( r)( 6)( i) of this section, exceed the baseline actual emissions ( as documented and maintained pursuant to paragraph ( r)( 6)( i)( c) of this section) by a significant amount ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section) for that regulated NSR pollutant, and if such emissions differ from the preconstruction projection as documented and maintained pursuant to paragraph ( r)( 6)( i)( c) of this section. Such report shall be submitted to the reviewing authority within 60 days after the end of such year. The report shall contain the following: ( a) The name, address and telephone number of the major stationary source; ( b) The annual emissions as calculated pursuant to paragraph ( r)( 6)( iii) of this section; and ( c) Any other information that the owner or operator wishes to include in the report ( e. g., an explanation as to why the emissions differ from the preconstruction projection). ( 7) Each plan shall provide that the owner or operator of the source shall make the information required to be documented and maintained pursuant to paragraph ( r)( 6) of this section available for review upon request for inspection by the reviewing authority or the general public pursuant to the requirements contained in § 70.4( b)( 3)( viii) of this chapter. * * * * * ( t) Clean Unit Test for emissions units that are subject to BACT or LAER. The plan shall provide an owner or operator of a major stationary source the option of using the Clean Unit Test to determine whether emissions increases at a Clean Unit are part of a project that is a major modification according to the provisions in paragraphs ( t)( 1) through ( 9) of this section. ( 1) Applicability. The provisions of this paragraph ( t) apply to any emissions unit for which the reviewing authority has issued a major NSR permit within the past 10 years. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00080 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80265 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations ( 2) General provisions for Clean Units. The provisions in paragraphs ( t)( 2)( i) through ( iv) of this section apply to a Clean Unit. ( i) Any project for which the owner or operator begins actual construction after the effective date of the Clean Unit designation ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( t)( 4) of this section) and before the expiration date ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( t)( 5) of this section) will be considered to have occurred while the emissions unit was a Clean Unit. ( ii) If a project at a Clean Unit does not cause the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that were adopted in conjunction with BACT and the project would not alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT determination as specified in paragraph ( t)( 6)( iv) of this section, the emissions unit remains a Clean Unit. ( iii) If a project causes the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that were adopted in conjunction with BACT or the project would alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT determination as specified in paragraph ( t)( 6)( iv) of this section, then the emissions unit loses its designation as a Clean Unit upon issuance of the necessary permit revisions ( unless the unit re­ qualifies as a Clean Unit pursuant to paragraph ( t)( 3)( iii) of this section). If the owner or operator begins actual construction on the project without first applying to revise the emissions unit's permit, the Clean Unit designation ends immediately prior to the time when actual construction begins. ( iv) A project that causes an emissions unit to lose its designation as a Clean Unit is subject to the applicability requirements of paragraphs ( a)( 7)( iv)( a) through ( d) and paragraph ( a)( 7)( iv)( f) of this section as if the emissions unit is not a Clean Unit. ( 3) Qualifying or re­ qualifying to use the Clean Unit Applicability Test. An emissions unit automatically qualifies as a Clean Unit when the unit meets the criteria in paragraphs ( t)( 3)( i) and ( ii) of this section. After the original Clean Unit designation expires in accordance with paragraph ( t)( 5) of this section or is lost pursuant to paragraph ( t)( 2)( iii) of this section, such emissions unit may re­ qualify as a Clean Unit under either paragraph ( t)( 3)( iii) of this section, or under the Clean Unit provisions in paragraph ( u) of this section. To requalify as a Clean Unit under paragraph ( t)( 3)( iii) of this section, the emissions unit must obtain a new major NSR permit issued through the applicable PSD program and meet all the criteria in paragraph ( t)( 3)( iii) of this section. The Clean Unit designation applies individually for each pollutant emitted by the emissions unit. ( i) Permitting requirement. The emissions unit must have received a major NSR permit within the past 10 years. The owner or operator must maintain and be able to provide information that would demonstrate that this permitting requirement is met. ( ii) Qualifying air pollution control technologies. Air pollutant emissions from the emissions unit must be reduced through the use of air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention as defined under paragraph ( b)( 38) of this section or work practices) that meets both the following requirements in paragraphs ( t)( 3)( ii)( a) and ( b) of this section. ( a) The control technology achieves the BACT or LAER level of emissions reductions as determined through issuance of a major NSR permit within the past 10 years. However, the emissions unit is not eligible for the Clean Unit designation if the BACT determination resulted in no requirement to reduce emissions below the level of a standard, uncontrolled, new emissions unit of the same type. ( b) The owner or operator made an investment to install the control technology. For the purpose of this determination, an investment includes expenses to research the application of a pollution prevention technique to the emissions unit or expenses to apply a pollution prevention technique to an emissions unit. ( iii) Re­ qualifying for the Clean Unit designation. The emissions unit must obtain a new major NSR permit that requires compliance with the currentday BACT ( or LAER), and the emissions unit must meet the requirements in paragraphs ( t)( 3)( i) and ( t)( 3)( ii) of this section. ( 4) Effective date of the Clean Unit designation. The effective date of an emissions unit's Clean Unit designation ( that is, the date on which the owner or operator may begin to use the Clean Unit Test to determine whether a project at the emissions unit is a major modification) is determined according to the applicable paragraph ( t)( 4)( i) or ( t)( 4)( ii) of this section. ( i) Original Clean Unit designation, and emissions units that re­ qualify as Clean Units by implementing a new control technology to meet current­ day BACT. The effective date is the date the emissions unit's air pollution control technology is placed into service, or 3 years after the issuance date of the major NSR permit, whichever is earlier, but no sooner than the date that provisions for the Clean Unit applicability test are approved by the Administrator for incorporation into the plan and become effective for the State in which the unit is located. ( ii) Emissions Units that re­ qualify for the Clean Unit designation using an existing control technology. The effective date is the date the new, major NSR permit is issued. ( 5) Clean Unit expiration. An emissions unit's Clean Unit designation expires ( that is, the date on which the owner or operator may no longer use the Clean Unit Test to determine whether a project affecting the emissions unit is, or is part of, a major modification) according to the applicable paragraph ( t)( 5)( i) or ( ii) of this section. ( i) Original Clean Unit designation, and emissions units that re­ qualify by implementing new control technology to meet current­ day BACT. For any emissions unit that automatically qualifies as a Clean Unit under paragraphs ( t)( 3)( i) and ( ii) of this section or re­ qualifies by implementing new control technology to meet currentday BACT under paragraph ( t)( 3)( iii) of this section, the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years after the effective date, or the date the equipment went into service, whichever is earlier; or, it expires at any time the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining the Clean Unit designation in paragraph ( t)( 7) of this section. ( ii) Emissions units that re­ qualify for the Clean Unit designation using an existing control technology. For any emissions unit that re­ qualifies as a Clean Unit under paragraph ( t)( 3)( iii) of this section using an existing control technology, the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years after the effective date; or, it expires any time the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining the Clean Unit designation in paragraph ( t)( 7) of this section. ( 6) Required title V permit content for a Clean Unit. After the effective date of the Clean Unit designation, and in accordance with the provisions of the applicable title V permit program under part 70 or part 71 of this chapter, but no later than when the title V permit is renewed, the title V permit for the major stationary source must include the following terms and conditions related to the Clean Unit in paragraphs ( t)( 6)( i) through ( vi) of this section. ( i) A statement indicating that the emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit and identifying the pollutant( s) for VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00081 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80266 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations which this Clean Unit designation applies. ( ii) The effective date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the Clean Unit designation is initially recorded in the title V permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), the permit must describe the event that will determine the effective date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the effective date is determined, the owner or operator must notify the reviewing authority of the exact date. This specific effective date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iii) The expiration date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the Clean Unit designation is initially recorded into the title V permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), then the permit must describe the event that will determine the expiration date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the expiration date is determined, the owner or operator must notify the reviewing authority of the exact date. The expiration date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iv) All emission limitations and work practice requirements adopted in conjunction with BACT, and any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT determination ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( v) Monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements as necessary to demonstrate that the emissions unit continues to meet the criteria for maintaining the Clean Unit designation. ( See paragraph ( t)( 7) of this section.) ( vi) Terms reflecting the owner or operator's duties to maintain the Clean Unit designation and the consequences of failing to do so, as presented in paragraph ( t)( 7) of this section. ( 7) Maintaining the Clean Unit designation. To maintain the Clean Unit designation, the owner or operator must conform to all the restrictions listed in paragraphs ( t)( 7)( i) through ( iii) of this section. This paragraph ( t)( 7) applies independently to each pollutant for which the emissions unit has the Clean Unit designation. That is, failing to conform to the restrictions for one pollutant affects the Clean Unit designation only for that pollutant. ( i) The Clean Unit must comply with the emission limitation( s) and/ or work practice requirements adopted in conjunction with the BACT that is recorded in the major NSR permit, and subsequently reflected in the title V permit. The owner or operator may not make a physical change in or change in the method of operation of the Clean Unit that causes the emissions unit to function in a manner that is inconsistent with the physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT determination ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( ii) The Clean Unit must comply with any terms and conditions in the title V permit related to the unit's Clean Unit designation. ( iii) The Clean Unit must continue to control emissions using the specific air pollution control technology that was the basis for its Clean Unit designation. If the emissions unit or control technology is replaced, then the Clean Unit designation ends. ( 8) Netting at Clean Units. Emissions changes that occur at a Clean Unit must not be included in calculating a significant net emissions increase ( that is, must not be used in a `` netting analysis''), unless such use occurs before the effective date of the Clean Unit designation, or after the Clean Unit designation expires; or, unless the emissions unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit. However, if the Clean Unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit, then the owner or operator may generate a credit for the difference between the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit and the new emission limitation if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, and permanent. For purposes of generating offsets, the reductions must also be federally enforceable. For purposes of determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases, the reductions must also be enforceable as a practical matter. ( 9) Effect of redesignation on the Clean Unit designation. The Clean Unit designation of an emissions unit is not affected by redesignation of the attainment status of the area in which it is located. That is, if a Clean Unit is located in an attainment area and the area is redesignated to nonattainment, its Clean Unit designation is not affected. Similarly, redesignation from nonattainment to attainment does not affect the Clean Unit designation. However, if an existing Clean Unit designation expires, it must re­ qualify under the requirements that are currently applicable in the area. ( u) Clean Unit provisions for emissions units that achieve an emission limitation comparable to BACT. The plan shall provide an owner or operator of a major stationary source the option of using the Clean Unit Test to determine whether emissions increases at a Clean Unit are part of a project that is a major modification according to the provisions in paragraphs ( u)( 1) through ( 11) of this section. ( 1) Applicability. The provisions of this paragraph ( u) apply to emissions units which do not qualify as Clean Units under paragraph ( t) of this section, but which are achieving a level of emissions control comparable to BACT, as determined by the reviewing authority in accordance with this paragraph ( u). ( 2) General provisions for Clean Units. The provisions in paragraphs ( u)( 2)( i) through ( iv) of this section apply to a Clean Unit. ( i) Any project for which the owner or operator begins actual construction after the effective date of the Clean Unit designation ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( u)( 5) of this section) and before the expiration date ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( u)( 6) of this section) will be considered to have occurred while the emissions unit was a Clean Unit. ( ii) If a project at a Clean Unit does not cause the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that have been determined ( pursuant to paragraph ( u)( 4) of this section) to be comparable to BACT, and the project would not alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for determining that the emissions unit's control technology achieves a level of emissions control comparable to BACT as specified in paragraph ( u)( 8)( iv) of this section, the emissions unit remains a Clean Unit. ( iii) If a project causes the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that have been determined ( pursuant to paragraph ( u)( 4) of this section) to be comparable to BACT, or the project would alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for determining that the emissions unit's control technology achieves a level of emissions control comparable to BACT as specified in paragraph ( u)( 8)( iv) of this section, then the emissions unit loses its designation as a Clean Unit upon VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00082 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80267 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations issuance of the necessary permit revisions ( unless the unit re­ qualifies as a Clean Unit pursuant to paragraph ( u)( 3)( iv) of this section). If the owner or operator begins actual construction on the project without first applying to revise the emissions unit's permit, the Clean Unit designation ends immediately prior to the time when actual construction begins. ( iv) A project that causes an emissions unit to lose its designation as a Clean Unit is subject to the applicability requirements of paragraphs ( a)( 7)( iv)( a) through ( d) and paragraph ( a)( 7)( iv)( f) of this section as if the emissions unit is not a Clean Unit. ( 3) Qualifying or re­ qualifying to use the Clean Unit applicability test. An emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit when the unit meets the criteria in paragraphs ( u)( 3)( i) through ( iii) of this section. After the original Clean Unit designation expires in accordance with paragraph ( u)( 6) of this section or is lost pursuant to paragraph ( u)( 2)( iii) of this section, such emissions unit may requalify as a Clean Unit under either paragraph ( u)( 3)( iv) of this section, or under the Clean Unit provisions in paragraph ( t) of this section. To requalify as a Clean Unit under paragraph ( u)( 3)( iv) of this section, the emissions unit must obtain a new permit issued pursuant to the requirements in paragraphs ( u)( 7) and ( 8) of this section and meet all the criteria in paragraph ( u)( 3)( iv) of this section. The reviewing authority will make a separate Clean Unit designation for each pollutant emitted by the emissions unit for which the emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit. ( i) Qualifying air pollution control technologies. Air pollutant emissions from the emissions unit must be reduced through the use of air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention as defined under paragraph ( b)( 38) or work practices) that meets both the following requirements in paragraphs ( u)( 3)( i)( a) and ( b) of this section. ( a) The owner or operator has demonstrated that the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to BACT according to the requirements of paragraph ( u)( 4) of this section. However, the emissions unit is not eligible for the Clean Unit designation if its emissions are not reduced below the level of a standard, uncontrolled emissions unit of the same type ( e. g., if the BACT determinations to which it is compared have resulted in a determination that no control measures are required). ( b) The owner or operator made an investment to install the control technology. For the purpose of this determination, an investment includes expenses to research the application of a pollution prevention technique to the emissions unit or to retool the unit to apply a pollution prevention technique. ( ii) Impact of emissions from the unit. The reviewing authority must determine that the allowable emissions from the emissions unit will not cause or contribute to a violation of any national ambient air quality standard or PSD increment, or adversely impact an air quality related value ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which information is available to the general public. ( iii) Date of installation. An emissions unit may qualify as a Clean Unit even if the control technology, on which the Clean Unit designation is based, was installed before the effective date of plan requirements to implement the requirements of this paragraph ( u)( 3)( iii). However, for such emissions units, the owner or operator must apply for the Clean Unit designation within 2 years after the plan requirements become effective. For technologies installed after the plan requirements become effective, the owner or operator must apply for the Clean Unit designation at the time the control technology is installed. ( iv) Re­ qualifying as a Clean Unit. The emissions unit must obtain a new permit ( pursuant to requirements in paragraphs ( u)( 7) and ( 8) of this section) that demonstrates that the emissions unit's control technology is achieving a level of emission control comparable to current­ day BACT, and the emissions unit must meet the requirements in paragraphs ( u)( 3)( i)( a) and ( u)( 3)( ii) of this section. ( 4) Demonstrating control effectiveness comparable to BACT. The owner or operator may demonstrate that the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to BACT for purposes of paragraph ( u)( 3)( i) of this section according to either paragraph ( u)( 4)( i) or ( ii) of this section. Paragraph ( u)( 4)( iii) of this section specifies the time for making this comparison. ( i) Comparison to previous BACT and LAER determinations. The Administrator maintains an on­ line data base of previous determinations of RACT, BACT, and LAER in the RACT/ BACT/ LAER Clearinghouse ( RBLC). The emissions unit's control technology is presumed to be comparable to BACT if it achieves an emission limitation that is equal to or better than the average of the emission limitations achieved by all the sources for which a BACT or LAER determination has been made within the preceding 5 years and entered into the RBLC, and for which it is technically feasible to apply the BACT or LAER control technology to the emissions unit. The reviewing authority shall also compare this presumption to any additional BACT or LAER determinations of which it is aware, and shall consider any information on achieved­ in­ practice pollution control technologies provided during the public comment period, to determine whether any presumptive determination that the control technology is comparable to BACT is correct. ( ii) The substantially­ as­ effective test. The owner or operator may demonstrate that the emissions unit's control technology is substantially as effective as BACT. In addition, any other person may present evidence related to whether the control technology is substantially as effective as BACT during the public participation process required under paragraph ( u)( 7) of this section. The reviewing authority shall consider such evidence on a case­ by­ case basis and determine whether the emissions unit's air pollution control technology is substantially as effective as BACT. ( iii) Time of comparison. ( a) Emissions units with control technologies that are installed before the effective date of plan requirements implementing this paragraph. The owner or operator of an emissions unit whose control technology is installed before the effective date of plan requirements implementing this paragraph ( u) may, at its option, either demonstrate that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to the BACT requirements that applied at the time the control technology was installed, or demonstrate that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to current­ day BACT requirements. The expiration date of the Clean Unit designation will depend on which option the owner or operator uses, as specified in paragraph ( u)( 6) of this section. ( b) Emissions units with control technologies that are installed after the effective date of plan requirements implementing this paragraph. The owner or operator must demonstrate that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to current­ day BACT requirements. ( 5) Effective date of the Clean Unit designation. The effective date of an emissions unit's Clean Unit designation ( that is, the date on which the owner or operator may begin to use the Clean Unit Test to determine whether a project involving the emissions unit is a major VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00083 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80268 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations modification) is the date that the permit required by paragraph ( u)( 7) of this section is issued or the date that the emissions unit's air pollution control technology is placed into service, whichever is later. ( 6) Clean Unit expiration. If the owner or operator demonstrates that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to the BACT requirements that applied at the time the control technology was installed, then the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years from the date that the control technology was installed. For all other emissions units, the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years from the effective date of the Clean Unit designation, as determined according to paragraph ( u)( 5) of this section. In addition, for all emissions units, the Clean Unit designation expires any time the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining the Clean Unit designation in paragraph ( u)( 9) of this section. ( 7) Procedures for designating emissions units as Clean Units. The reviewing authority shall designate an emissions unit a Clean Unit only by issuing a permit through a permitting program that has been approved by the Administrator and that conforms with the requirements of § § 51.160 through 51.164 of this chapter, including requirements for public notice of the proposed Clean Unit designation and opportunity for public comment. Such permit must also meet the requirements in paragraph ( u)( 8) of this section. ( 8) Required permit content. The permit required by paragraph ( u)( 7) of this section shall include the terms and conditions set forth in paragraphs ( u)( 8)( i) through ( vi). Such terms and conditions shall be incorporated into the major stationary source's title V permit in accordance with the provisions of the applicable title V permit program under part 70 or part 71 of this chapter, but no later than when the title V permit is renewed. ( i) A statement indicating that the emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit and identifying the pollutant( s) for which the Clean Unit designation applies. ( ii) The effective date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the reviewing authority issues the permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), then the permit must describe the event that will determine the effective date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the effective date is known, then the owner or operator must notify the reviewing authority of the exact date. This specific effective date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iii) The expiration date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the reviewing authority issues the permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), then the permit must describe the event that will determine the expiration date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the expiration date is known, then the owner or operator must notify the reviewing authority of the exact date. The expiration date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iv) All emission limitations and work practice requirements adopted in conjunction with emission limitations necessary to assure that the control technology continues to achieve an emission limitation comparable to BACT, and any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for determining that the emissions unit's control technology achieves a level of emissions control comparable to BACT ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( v) Monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements as necessary to demonstrate that the emissions unit continues to meet the criteria for maintaining its Clean Unit designation. ( See paragraph ( u)( 9) of this section.) ( vi) Terms reflecting the owner or operator's duties to maintain the Clean Unit designation and the consequences of failing to do so, as presented in paragraph ( u)( 9) of this section. ( 9) Maintaining the Clean Unit designation. To maintain the Clean Unit designation, the owner or operator must conform to all the restrictions listed in paragraphs ( u)( 9)( i) through ( v) of this section. This paragraph ( u)( 9) applies independently to each pollutant for which the reviewing authority has designated the emissions unit a Clean Unit. That is, failing to conform to the restrictions for one pollutant affects the Clean Unit designation only for that pollutant. ( i) The Clean Unit must comply with the emission limitation( s) and/ or work practice requirements adopted to ensure that the control technology continues to achieve emission control comparable to BACT. ( ii) The owner or operator may not make a physical change in or change in the method of operation of the Clean Unit that causes the emissions unit to function in a manner that is inconsistent with the physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the determination that the control technology is achieving a level of emission control that is comparable to BACT ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( iii) [ Reserved] ( iv) The Clean Unit must comply with any terms and conditions in the title V permit related to the unit's Clean Unit designation. ( v) The Clean Unit must continue to control emissions using the specific air pollution control technology that was the basis for its Clean Unit designation. If the emissions unit or control technology is replaced, then the Clean Unit designation ends. ( 10) Netting at Clean Units. Emissions changes that occur at a Clean Unit must not be included in calculating a significant net emissions increase ( that is, must not be used in a `` netting analysis'') unless such use occurs before the effective date of plan requirements adopted to implement this paragraph ( u) or after the Clean Unit designation expires; or, unless the emissions unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit. However, if the Clean Unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit, then the owner or operator may generate a credit for the difference between the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit and the emissions unit's new emission limitation if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, and permanent. For purposes of generating offsets, the reductions must also be federally enforceable. For purposes of determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases, the reductions must also be enforceable as a practical matter. ( 11) Effect of redesignation on the Clean Unit designation. The Clean Unit designation of an emissions unit is not affected by redesignation of the attainment designation of the area in which it is located. That is, if a Clean Unit is located in an attainment area and the area is redesignated to nonattainment, its Clean Unit designation is not affected. Similarly, redesignation from nonattainment to attainment does not affect the Clean Unit designation. However, if a Clean Unit's designation expires or is lost pursuant to paragraphs ( t)( 2)( iii) and ( u)( 2)( iii) of this section, it must re­ VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00084 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80269 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations qualify under the requirements that are currently applicable. ( v) PCP exclusion procedural requirements. Each plan shall include provisions for PCPs equivalent to those contained in paragraphs ( v)( 1) through ( 6) of this section. ( 1) Before an owner or operator begins actual construction of a PCP, the owner or operator must either submit a notice to the reviewing authority if the project is listed in paragraphs ( b)( 31)( i) through ( vi) of this section, or if the project is not listed in paragraphs ( b)( 31)( i) through ( vi) of this section, then the owner or operator must submit a permit application and obtain approval to use the PCP exclusion from the reviewing authority consistent with the requirements in paragraph ( v)( 5) of this section. Regardless of whether the owner or operator submits a notice or a permit application, the project must meet the requirements in paragraph ( v)( 2) of this section, and the notice or permit application must contain the information required in paragraph ( v)( 3) of this section. ( 2) Any project that relies on the PCP exclusion must meet the requirements in paragraphs ( v)( 2)( i) and ( ii) of this section. ( i) Environmentally beneficial analysis. The environmental benefit from the emission reductions of pollutants regulated under the Act must outweigh the environmental detriment of emissions increases in pollutants regulated under the Act. A statement that a technology from paragraphs ( b)( 31)( i) through ( vi) of this section is being used shall be presumed to satisfy this requirement. ( ii) Air quality analysis. The emissions increases from the project will not cause or contribute to a violation of any national ambient air quality standard or PSD increment, or adversely impact an air quality related value ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which information is available to the general public. ( 3) Content of notice or permit application. In the notice or permit application sent to the reviewing authority, the owner or operator must include, at a minimum, the information listed in paragraphs ( v)( 3)( i) through ( v) of this section. ( i) A description of the project. ( ii) The potential emissions increases and decreases of any pollutant regulated under the Act and the projected emissions increases and decreases using the methodology in paragraph ( a)( 7)( vi) of this section, that will result from the project, and a copy of the environmentally beneficial analysis required by paragraph ( v)( 2)( i) of this section. ( iii) A description of monitoring and recordkeeping, and all other methods, to be used on an ongoing basis to demonstrate that the project is environmentally beneficial. Methods should be sufficient to meet the requirements in part 70 and part 71. ( iv) A certification that the project will be designed and operated in a manner that is consistent with proper industry and engineering practices, in a manner that is consistent with the environmentally beneficial analysis and air quality analysis required by paragraphs ( v)( 2)( i) and ( ii) of this section, with information submitted in the notice or permit application, and in such a way as to minimize, within the physical configuration and operational standards usually associated with the emissions control device or strategy, emissions of collateral pollutants. ( v) Demonstration that the PCP will not have an adverse air quality impact ( e. g., modeling, screening level modeling results, or a statement that the collateral emissions increase is included within the parameters used in the most recent modeling exercise) as required by paragraph ( v)( 2)( ii) of this section. An air quality impact analysis is not required for any pollutant that will not experience a significant emissions increase as a result of the project. ( 4) Notice process for listed projects. For projects listed in paragraphs ( b)( 31)( i) through ( vi) of this section, the owner or operator may begin actual construction of the project immediately after notice is sent to the reviewing authority ( unless otherwise prohibited under requirements of the applicable plan). The owner or operator shall respond to any requests by its reviewing authority for additional information that the reviewing authority determines is necessary to evaluate the suitability of the project for the PCP exclusion. ( 5) Permit process for unlisted projects. Before an owner or operator may begin actual construction of a PCP project that is not listed in paragraphs ( b)( 31)( i) through ( vi) of this section, the project must be approved by the reviewing authority and recorded in a plan­ approved permit or title V permit using procedures that are consistent with § § 51.160 and 51.161 of this chapter. This includes the requirement that the reviewing authority provide the public with notice of the proposed approval, with access to the environmentally beneficial analysis and the air quality analysis, and provide at least a 30­ day period for the public and the Administrator to submit comments. The reviewing authority must address all material comments received by the end of the comment period before taking final action on the permit. ( 6) Operational requirements. Upon installation of the PCP, the owner or operator must comply with the requirements of paragraphs ( v)( 6)( i) through ( iv) of this section. ( i) General duty. The owner or operator must operate the PCP consistent with proper industry and engineering practices, in a manner that is consistent with the environmentally beneficial analysis and air quality analysis required by paragraphs ( v)( 2)( i) and ( ii) of this section, with information submitted in the notice or permit application required by paragraph ( v)( 3), and in such a way as to minimize, within the physical configuration and operational standards usually associated with the emissions control device or strategy, emissions of collateral pollutants. ( ii) Recordkeeping. The owner or operator must maintain copies on site of the environmentally beneficial analysis, the air quality impacts analysis, and monitoring and other emission records to prove that the PCP operated consistent with the general duty requirements in paragraph ( v)( 6)( i) of this section. ( iii) Permit requirements. The owner or operator must comply with any provisions in the plan­ approved permit or title V permit related to use and approval of the PCP exclusion. ( iv) Generation of Emission Reduction Credits. Emission reductions created by a PCP shall not be included in calculating a significant net emissions increase unless the emissions unit further reduces emissions after qualifying for the PCP exclusion ( e. g., taking an operational restriction on the hours of operation.) The owner or operator may generate a credit for the difference between the level of reduction which was used to qualify for the PCP exclusion and the new emission limitation if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, and permanent. For purposes of generating offsets, the reductions must also be federally enforceable. For purposes of determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases, the reductions must also be enforceable as a practical matter. ( w) Actuals PALs. The plan shall provide for PALs according to the provisions in paragraphs ( w)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. ( 1) Applicability. ( i) The reviewing authority may approve the use of an actuals PAL for any existing major stationary source if VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00085 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80270 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations the PAL meets the requirements in paragraphs ( w)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. The term `` PAL'' shall mean `` actuals PAL'' throughout paragraph ( w) of this section. ( ii) Any physical change in or change in the method of operation of a major stationary source that maintains its total source­ wide emissions below the PAL level, meets the requirements in paragraphs ( w)( 1) through ( 15) of this section, and complies with the PAL permit: ( a) Is not a major modification for the PAL pollutant; ( b) Does not have to be approved through the plan's major NSR program; and ( c) Is not subject to the provisions in paragraph ( r)( 2) of this section ( restrictions on relaxing enforceable emission limitations that the major stationary source used to avoid applicability of the major NSR program). ( iii) Except as provided under paragraph ( w)( 1)( ii)( c) of this section, a major stationary source shall continue to comply with all applicable Federal or State requirements, emission limitations, and work practice requirements that were established prior to the effective date of the PAL. ( 2) Definitions. The plan shall use the definitions in paragraphs ( w)( 2)( i) through ( xi) of this section for the purpose of developing and implementing regulations that authorize the use of actuals PALs consistent with paragraphs ( w)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. When a term is not defined in these paragraphs, it shall have the meaning given in paragraph ( b) of this section or in the Act. ( i) Actuals PAL for a major stationary source means a PAL based on the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 47) of this section) of all emissions units ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 7) of this section) at the source, that emit or have the potential to emit the PAL pollutant. ( ii) Allowable emissions means `` allowable emissions'' as defined in paragraph ( b)( 16) of this section, except as this definition is modified according to paragraphs ( w)( 2)( ii)( a) and ( b) of this section. ( a) The allowable emissions for any emissions unit shall be calculated considering any emission limitations that are enforceable as a practical matter on the emissions unit's potential to emit. ( b) An emissions unit's potential to emit shall be determined using the definition in paragraph ( b)( 4) of this section, except that the words `` or enforceable as a practical matter'' should be added after `` federally enforceable.'' ( iii) Small emissions unit means an emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit the PAL pollutant in an amount less than the significant level for that PAL pollutant, as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section or in the Act, whichever is lower. ( iv) Major emissions unit means: ( a) Any emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit 100 tons per year or more of the PAL pollutant in an attainment area; or ( b) Any emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit the PAL pollutant in an amount that is equal to or greater than the major source threshold for the PAL pollutant as defined by the Act for nonattainment areas. For example, in accordance with the definition of major stationary source in section 182( c) of the Act, an emissions unit would be a major emissions unit for VOC if the emissions unit is located in a serious ozone nonattainment area and it emits or has the potential to emit 50 or more tons of VOC per year. ( v) Plantwide applicability limitation ( PAL) means an emission limitation expressed in tons per year, for a pollutant at a major stationary source, that is enforceable as a practical matter and established source­ wide in accordance with paragraphs ( w)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. ( vi) PAL effective date generally means the date of issuance of the PAL permit. However, the PAL effective date for an increased PAL is the date any emissions unit that is part of the PAL major modification becomes operational and begins to emit the PAL pollutant. ( vii) PAL effective period means the period beginning with the PAL effective date and ending 10 years later. ( viii) PAL major modification means, notwithstanding paragraphs ( b)( 2) and ( b)( 3) of this section ( the definitions for major modification and net emissions increase), any physical change in or change in the method of operation of the PAL source that causes it to emit the PAL pollutant at a level equal to or greater than the PAL. ( ix) PAL permit means the major NSR permit, the minor NSR permit, or the State operating permit under a program that is approved into the plan, or the title V permit issued by the reviewing authority that establishes a PAL for a major stationary source. ( x) PAL pollutant means the pollutant for which a PAL is established at a major stationary source. ( xi) Significant emissions unit means an emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit a PAL pollutant in an amount that is equal to or greater than the significant level ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section or in the Act, whichever is lower) for that PAL pollutant, but less than the amount that would qualify the unit as a major emissions unit as defined in paragraph ( w)( 2)( iv) of this section. ( 3) Permit application requirements. As part of a permit application requesting a PAL, the owner or operator of a major stationary source shall submit the following information in paragraphs ( w)( 3)( i) through ( iii) of this section to the reviewing authority for approval. ( i) A list of all emissions units at the source designated as small, significant or major based on their potential to emit. In addition, the owner or operator of the source shall indicate which, if any, Federal or State applicable requirements, emission limitations, or work practices apply to each unit. ( ii) Calculations of the baseline actual emissions ( with supporting documentation). Baseline actual emissions are to include emissions associated not only with operation of the unit, but also emissions associated with startup, shutdown, and malfunction. ( iii) The calculation procedures that the major stationary source owner or operator proposes to use to convert the monitoring system data to monthly emissions and annual emissions based on a 12­ month rolling total for each month as required by paragraph ( w)( 13)( i) of this section. ( 4) General requirements for establishing PALs. ( i) The plan allows the reviewing authority to establish a PAL at a major stationary source, provided that at a minimum, the requirements in paragraphs ( w)( 4)( i)( a) through ( g) of this section are met. ( a) The PAL shall impose an annual emission limitation in tons per year, that is enforceable as a practical matter, for the entire major stationary source. For each month during the PAL effective period after the first 12 months of establishing a PAL, the major stationary source owner or operator shall show that the sum of the monthly emissions from each emissions unit under the PAL for the previous 12 consecutive months is less than the PAL ( a 12­ month average, rolled monthly). For each month during the first 11 months from the PAL effective date, the major stationary source owner or operator shall show that the sum of the preceding monthly emissions from the PAL effective date for each emissions unit under the PAL is less than the PAL. ( b) The PAL shall be established in a PAL permit that meets the public VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00086 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80271 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations participation requirements in paragraph ( w)( 5) of this section. ( c) The PAL permit shall contain all the requirements of paragraph ( w)( 7) of this section. ( d) The PAL shall include fugitive emissions, to the extent quantifiable, from all emissions units that emit or have the potential to emit the PAL pollutant at the major stationary source. ( e) Each PAL shall regulate emissions of only one pollutant. ( f) Each PAL shall have a PAL effective period of 10 years. ( g) The owner or operator of the major stationary source with a PAL shall comply with the monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements provided in paragraphs ( w)( 12) through ( 14) of this section for each emissions unit under the PAL through the PAL effective period. ( ii) At no time ( during or after the PAL effective period) are emissions reductions of a PAL pollutant that occur during the PAL effective period creditable as decreases for purposes of offsets under § 51.165( a)( 3)( ii) of this chapter unless the level of the PAL is reduced by the amount of such emissions reductions and such reductions would be creditable in the absence of the PAL. ( 5) Public participation requirements for PALs. PALs for existing major stationary sources shall be established, renewed, or increased, through a procedure that is consistent with § § 51.160 and 51.161 of this chapter. This includes the requirement that the reviewing authority provide the public with notice of the proposed approval of a PAL permit and at least a 30­ day period for submittal of public comment. The reviewing authority must address all material comments before taking final action on the permit. ( 6) Setting the 10­ year actuals PAL level. The plan shall provide that the actuals PAL level for a major stationary source shall be established as the sum of the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 47) of this section) of the PAL pollutant for each emissions unit at the source; plus an amount equal to the applicable significant level for the PAL pollutant under paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section or under the Act, whichever is lower. When establishing the actuals PAL level, for a PAL pollutant, only one consecutive 24­ month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for all existing emissions units. However, a different consecutive 24­ month period may be used for each different PAL pollutant. Emissions associated with units that were permanently shutdown after this 24­ month period must be subtracted from the PAL level. Emissions from units on which actual construction began after the 24­ month period must be added to the PAL level in an amount equal to the potential to emit of the units. The reviewing authority shall specify a reduced PAL level( s) ( in tons/ yr) in the PAL permit to become effective on the future compliance date( s) of any applicable Federal or State regulatory requirement( s) that the reviewing authority is aware of prior to issuance of the PAL permit. For instance, if the source owner or operator will be required to reduce emissions from industrial boilers in half from baseline emissions of 60 ppm NOX to a new rule limit of 30 ppm, then the permit shall contain a future effective PAL level that is equal to the current PAL level reduced by half of the original baseline emissions of such unit( s). ( 7) Contents of the PAL permit. The plan shall require that the PAL permit contain, at a minimum, the information in paragraphs ( w)( 7)( i) through ( x) of this section. ( i) The PAL pollutant and the applicable source­ wide emission limitation in tons per year. ( ii) The PAL permit effective date and the expiration date of the PAL ( PAL effective period). ( iii) Specification in the PAL permit that if a major stationary source owner or operator applies to renew a PAL in accordance with paragraph ( w)( 10) of this section before the end of the PAL effective period, then the PAL shall not expire at the end of the PAL effective period. It shall remain in effect until a revised PAL permit is issued by the reviewing authority. ( iv) A requirement that emission calculations for compliance purposes include emissions from startups, shutdowns and malfunctions. ( v) A requirement that, once the PAL expires, the major stationary source is subject to the requirements of paragraph ( w)( 9) of this section. ( vi) The calculation procedures that the major stationary source owner or operator shall use to convert the monitoring system data to monthly emissions and annual emissions based on a 12­ month rolling total for each month as required by paragraph ( w)( 3)( i) of this section. ( vii) A requirement that the major stationary source owner or operator monitor all emissions units in accordance with the provisions under paragraph ( w)( 13) of this section. ( viii) A requirement to retain the records required under paragraph ( w)( 13) of this section on site. Such records may be retained in an electronic format. ( ix) A requirement to submit the reports required under paragraph ( w)( 14) of this section by the required deadlines. ( x) Any other requirements that the reviewing authority deems necessary to implement and enforce the PAL. ( 8) PAL effective period and reopening of the PAL permit. The plan shall require the information in paragraphs ( w)( 8)( i) and ( ii) of this section. ( i) PAL effective period. The reviewing authority shall specify a PAL effective period of 10 years. ( ii) Reopening of the PAL permit. ( a) During the PAL effective period, the plan shall require the reviewing authority to reopen the PAL permit to: ( 1) Correct typographical/ calculation errors made in setting the PAL or reflect a more accurate determination of emissions used to establish the PAL; ( 2) Reduce the PAL if the owner or operator of the major stationary source creates creditable emissions reductions for use as offsets under § 51.165( a)( 3)( ii) of this chapter; and ( 3) Revise the PAL to reflect an increase in the PAL as provided under paragraph ( w)( 11) of this section. ( b) The plan shall provide the reviewing authority discretion to reopen the PAL permit for the following: ( 1) Reduce the PAL to reflect newly applicable Federal requirements ( for example, NSPS) with compliance dates after the PAL effective date; ( 2) Reduce the PAL consistent with any other requirement, that is enforceable as a practical matter, and that the State may impose on the major stationary source under the plan; and ( 3) Reduce the PAL if the reviewing authority determines that a reduction is necessary to avoid causing or contributing to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or to an adverse impact on an AQRV that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which information is available to the general public. ( c) Except for the permit reopening in paragraph ( w)( 8)( ii)( a)( 1) of this section for the correction of typographical/ calculation errors that do not increase the PAL level, all reopenings shall be carried out in accordance with the public participation requirements of paragraph ( w)( 5) of this section. ( 9) Expiration of a PAL. Any PAL that is not renewed in accordance with the procedures in paragraph ( w)( 10) of this section shall expire at the end of the PAL effective period, and the VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00087 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80272 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations requirements in paragraphs ( w)( 9)( i) through ( v) of this section shall apply. ( i) Each emissions unit ( or each group of emissions units) that existed under the PAL shall comply with an allowable emission limitation under a revised permit established according to the procedures in paragraphs ( w)( 9)( i)( a) and ( b) of this section. ( a) Within the time frame specified for PAL renewals in paragraph ( w)( 10)( ii) of this section, the major stationary source shall submit a proposed allowable emission limitation for each emissions unit ( or each group of emissions units, if such a distribution is more appropriate as decided by the reviewing authority) by distributing the PAL allowable emissions for the major stationary source among each of the emissions units that existed under the PAL. If the PAL had not yet been adjusted for an applicable requirement that became effective during the PAL effective period, as required under paragraph ( w)( 10)( v) of this section, such distribution shall be made as if the PAL had been adjusted. ( b) The reviewing authority shall decide whether and how the PAL allowable emissions will be distributed and issue a revised permit incorporating allowable limits for each emissions unit, or each group of emissions units, as the reviewing authority determines is appropriate. ( ii) Each emissions unit( s) shall comply with the allowable emission limitation on a 12­ month rolling basis. The reviewing authority may approve the use of monitoring systems ( source testing, emission factors, etc.) other than CEMS, CERMS, PEMS or CPMS to demonstrate compliance with the allowable emission limitation. ( iii) Until the reviewing authority issues the revised permit incorporating allowable limits for each emissions unit, or each group of emissions units, as required under paragraph ( w)( 9)( i)( b) of this section, the source shall continue to comply with a source­ wide, multi­ unit emissions cap equivalent to the level of the PAL emission limitation. ( iv) Any physical change or change in the method of operation at the major stationary source will be subject to major NSR requirements if such change meets the definition of major modification in paragraph ( b)( 2) of this section. ( v) The major stationary source owner or operator shall continue to comply with any State or Federal applicable requirements ( BACT, RACT, NSPS, etc.) that may have applied either during the PAL effective period or prior to the PAL effective period except for those emission limitations that had been established pursuant to paragraph ( r)( 2) of this section, but were eliminated by the PAL in accordance with the provisions in paragraph ( w)( 1)( ii)( c) of this section. ( 10) Renewal of a PAL. ( i) The reviewing authority shall follow the procedures specified in paragraph ( w)( 5) of this section in approving any request to renew a PAL for a major stationary source, and shall provide both the proposed PAL level and a written rationale for the proposed PAL level to the public for review and comment. During such public review, any person may propose a PAL level for the source for consideration by the reviewing authority. ( ii) Application deadline. The plan shall require that a major stationary source owner or operator shall submit a timely application to the reviewing authority to request renewal of a PAL. A timely application is one that is submitted at least 6 months prior to, but not earlier than 18 months from, the date of permit expiration. This deadline for application submittal is to ensure that the permit will not expire before the permit is renewed. If the owner or operator of a major stationary source submits a complete application to renew the PAL within this time period, then the PAL shall continue to be effective until the revised permit with the renewed PAL is issued. ( iii) Application requirements. The application to renew a PAL permit shall contain the information required in paragraphs ( w)( 10)( iii) ( a) through ( d) of this section. ( a) The information required in paragraphs ( w)( 3)( i) through ( iii) of this section. ( b) A proposed PAL level. ( c) The sum of the potential to emit of all emissions units under the PAL ( with supporting documentation). ( d) Any other information the owner or operator wishes the reviewing authority to consider in determining the appropriate level for renewing the PAL. ( iv) PAL adjustment. In determining whether and how to adjust the PAL, the reviewing authority shall consider the options outlined in paragraphs ( w)( 10)( iv) ( a) and ( b) of this section. However, in no case may any such adjustment fail to comply with paragraph ( w)( 10)( iv)( c) of this section. ( a) If the emissions level calculated in accordance with paragraph ( w)( 6) of this section is equal to or greater than 80 percent of the PAL level, the reviewing authority may renew the PAL at the same level without considering the factors set forth in paragraph ( w)( 10)( iv)( b) of this section; or ( b) The reviewing authority may set the PAL at a level that it determines to be more representative of the source's baseline actual emissions, or that it determines to be appropriate considering air quality needs, advances in control technology, anticipated economic growth in the area, desire to reward or encourage the source's voluntary emissions reductions, or other factors as specifically identified by the reviewing authority in its written rationale. ( c) Notwithstanding paragraphs ( w)( 10)( iv) ( a) and ( b) of this section: ( 1) If the potential to emit of the major stationary source is less than the PAL, the reviewing authority shall adjust the PAL to a level no greater than the potential to emit of the source; and ( 2) The reviewing authority shall not approve a renewed PAL level higher than the current PAL, unless the major stationary source has complied with the provisions of paragraph ( w)( 11) of this section ( increasing a PAL). ( v) If the compliance date for a State or Federal requirement that applies to the PAL source occurs during the PAL effective period, and if the reviewing authority has not already adjusted for such requirement, the PAL shall be adjusted at the time of PAL permit renewal or title V permit renewal, whichever occurs first. ( 11) Increasing a PAL during the PAL effective period. ( i) The plan shall require that the reviewing authority may increase a PAL emission limitation only if the major stationary source complies with the provisions in paragraphs ( w)( 11)( i) ( a) through ( d) of this section. ( a) The owner or operator of the major stationary source shall submit a complete application to request an increase in the PAL limit for a PAL major modification. Such application shall identify the emissions unit( s) contributing to the increase in emissions so as to cause the major stationary source's emissions to equal or exceed its PAL. ( b) As part of this application, the major stationary source owner or operator shall demonstrate that the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the small emissions units, plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the significant and major emissions units assuming application of BACT equivalent controls, plus the sum of the allowable emissions of the new or modified emissions unit( s), exceeds the PAL. The level of control that would result from BACT equivalent controls on each significant or major emissions unit shall be determined by conducting a new BACT analysis at the time the VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 34 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00088 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80273 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations application is submitted, unless the emissions unit is currently required to comply with a BACT or LAER requirement that was established within the preceding 10 years. In such a case, the assumed control level for that emissions unit shall be equal to the level of BACT or LAER with which that emissions unit must currently comply. ( c) The owner or operator obtains a major NSR permit for all emissions unit( s) identified in paragraph ( w)( 11)( i)( a) of this section, regardless of the magnitude of the emissions increase resulting from them ( that is, no significant levels apply). These emissions unit( s) shall comply with any emissions requirements resulting from the major NSR process ( for example, BACT), even though they have also become subject to the PAL or continue to be subject to the PAL. ( d) The PAL permit shall require that the increased PAL level shall be effective on the day any emissions unit that is part of the PAL major modification becomes operational and begins to emit the PAL pollutant. ( ii) The reviewing authority shall calculate the new PAL as the sum of the allowable emissions for each modified or new emissions unit, plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the significant and major emissions units ( assuming application of BACT equivalent controls as determined in accordance with paragraph ( w)( 11)( i)( b) of this section), plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the small emissions units. ( iii) The PAL permit shall be revised to reflect the increased PAL level pursuant to the public notice requirements of paragraph ( w)( 5) of this section. ( 12) Monitoring requirements for PALs. ( i) General requirements. ( a) Each PAL permit must contain enforceable requirements for the monitoring system that accurately determines plantwide emissions of the PAL pollutant in terms of mass per unit of time. Any monitoring system authorized for use in the PAL permit must be based on sound science and meet generally acceptable scientific procedures for data quality and manipulation. Additionally, the information generated by such system must meet minimum legal requirements for admissibility in a judicial proceeding to enforce the PAL permit. ( b) The PAL monitoring system must employ one or more of the four general monitoring approaches meeting the minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs ( w)( 12)( ii) ( a) through ( d) of this section and must be approved by the reviewing authority. ( c) Notwithstanding paragraph ( w)( 12)( i)( b) of this section, you may also employ an alternative monitoring approach that meets paragraph ( w)( 12)( i)( a) of this section if approved by the reviewing authority. ( d) Failure to use a monitoring system that meets the requirements of this section renders the PAL invalid. ( ii) Minimum performance requirements for approved monitoring approaches. The following are acceptable general monitoring approaches when conducted in accordance with the minimum requirements in paragraphs ( w)( 12)( iii) through ( ix) of this section: ( a) Mass balance calculations for activities using coatings or solvents; ( b) CEMS; ( c) CPMS or PEMS; and ( d) Emission factors. ( iii) Mass balance calculations. An owner or operator using mass balance calculations to monitor PAL pollutant emissions from activities using coating or solvents shall meet the following requirements: ( a) Provide a demonstrated means of validating the published content of the PAL pollutant that is contained in or created by all materials used in or at the emissions unit; ( b) Assume that the emissions unit emits all of the PAL pollutant that is contained in or created by any raw material or fuel used in or at the emissions unit, if it cannot otherwise be accounted for in the process; and ( c) Where the vendor of a material or fuel, which is used in or at the emissions unit, publishes a range of pollutant content from such material, the owner or operator must use the highest value of the range to calculate the PAL pollutant emissions unless the reviewing authority determines there is site­ specific data or a site­ specific monitoring program to support another content within the range. ( iv) CEMS. An owner or operator using CEMS to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the following requirements: ( a) CEMS must comply with applicable Performance Specifications found in 40 CFR part 60, appendix B; and ( b) CEMS must sample, analyze, and record data at least every 15 minutes while the emissions unit is operating. ( v) CPMS or PEMS. An owner or operator using CPMS or PEMS to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the following requirements: ( a) The CPMS or the PEMS must be based on current site­ specific data demonstrating a correlation between the monitored parameter( s) and the PAL pollutant emissions across the range of operation of the emissions unit; and ( b) Each CPMS or PEMS must sample, analyze, and record data at least every 15 minutes, or at another less frequent interval approved by the reviewing authority, while the emissions unit is operating. ( vi) Emission factors. An owner or operator using emission factors to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the following requirements: ( a) All emission factors shall be adjusted, if appropriate, to account for the degree of uncertainty or limitations in the factors' development; ( b) The emissions unit shall operate within the designated range of use for the emission factor, if applicable; and ( c) If technically practicable, the owner or operator of a significant emissions unit that relies on an emission factor to calculate PAL pollutant emissions shall conduct validation testing to determine a sitespecific emission factor within 6 months of PAL permit issuance, unless the reviewing authority determines that testing is not required. ( vii) A source owner or operator must record and report maximum potential emissions without considering enforceable emission limitations or operational restrictions for an emissions unit during any period of time that there is no monitoring data, unless another method for determining emissions during such periods is specified in the PAL permit. ( viii) Notwithstanding the requirements in paragraphs ( w)( 12)( iii) through ( vii) of this section, where an owner or operator of an emissions unit cannot demonstrate a correlation between the monitored parameter( s) and the PAL pollutant emissions rate at all operating points of the emissions unit, the reviewing authority shall, at the time of permit issuance: ( a) Establish default value( s) for determining compliance with the PAL based on the highest potential emissions reasonably estimated at such operating point( s); or ( b) Determine that operation of the emissions unit during operating conditions when there is no correlation between monitored parameter( s) and the PAL pollutant emissions is a violation of the PAL. ( ix) Re­ validation. All data used to establish the PAL pollutant must be revalidated through performance testing or other scientifically valid means approved by the reviewing authority. Such testing must occur at least once every 5 years after issuance of the PAL. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 17: 13 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00089 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80274 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations ( 13) Recordkeeping requirements. ( i) The PAL permit shall require an owner or operator to retain a copy of all records necessary to determine compliance with any requirement of paragraph ( w) of this section and of the PAL, including a determination of each emissions unit's 12­ month rolling total emissions, for 5 years from the date of such record. ( ii) The PAL permit shall require an owner or operator to retain a copy of the following records, for the duration of the PAL effective period plus 5 years: ( a) A copy of the PAL permit application and any applications for revisions to the PAL; and ( b) Each annual certification of compliance pursuant to title V and the data relied on in certifying the compliance. ( 14) Reporting and notification requirements. The owner or operator shall submit semi­ annual monitoring reports and prompt deviation reports to the reviewing authority in accordance with the applicable title V operating permit program. The reports shall meet the requirements in paragraphs ( w)( 14)( i) through ( iii) of this section. ( i) Semi­ annual report. The semiannual report shall be submitted to the reviewing authority within 30 days of the end of each reporting period. This report shall contain the information required in paragraphs ( w)( 14)( i)( a) through ( g) of this section. ( a) The identification of owner and operator and the permit number. ( b) Total annual emissions ( tons/ year) based on a 12­ month rolling total for each month in the reporting period recorded pursuant to paragraph ( w)( 13)( i) of this section. ( c) All data relied upon, including, but not limited to, any Quality Assurance or Quality Control data, in calculating the monthly and annual PAL pollutant emissions. ( d) A list of any emissions units modified or added to the major stationary source during the preceding 6­ month period. ( e) The number, duration, and cause of any deviations or monitoring malfunctions ( other than the time associated with zero and span calibration checks), and any corrective action taken. ( f) A notification of a shutdown of any monitoring system, whether the shutdown was permanent or temporary, the reason for the shutdown, the anticipated date that the monitoring system will be fully operational or replaced with another monitoring system, and whether the emissions unit monitored by the monitoring system continued to operate, and the calculation of the emissions of the pollutant or the number determined by method included in the permit, as provided by paragraph ( w)( 12)( vii) of this section. ( g) A signed statement by the responsible official ( as defined by the applicable title V operating permit program) certifying the truth, accuracy, and completeness of the information provided in the report. ( ii) Deviation report. The major stationary source owner or operator shall promptly submit reports of any deviations or exceedance of the PAL requirements, including periods where no monitoring is available. A report submitted pursuant to § 70.6( a)( 3)( iii)( B) of this chapter shall satisfy this reporting requirement. The deviation reports shall be submitted within the time limits prescribed by the applicable program implementing § 70.6( a)( 3)( iii)( B) of this chapter. The reports shall contain the following information: ( a) The identification of owner and operator and the permit number; ( b) The PAL requirement that experienced the deviation or that was exceeded; ( c) Emissions resulting from the deviation or the exceedance; and ( d) A signed statement by the responsible official ( as defined by the applicable title V operating permit program) certifying the truth, accuracy, and completeness of the information provided in the report. ( iii) Re­ validation results. The owner or operator shall submit to the reviewing authority the results of any re­ validation test or method within three months after completion of such test or method. ( 15) Transition requirements. ( i) No reviewing authority may issue a PAL that does not comply with the requirements in paragraphs ( w)( 1) through ( 15) of this section after the Administrator has approved regulations incorporating these requirements into a plan. ( ii) The reviewing authority may supersede any PAL which was established prior to the date of approval of the plan by the Administrator with a PAL that complies with the requirements of paragraphs ( w)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. ( x) If any provision of this section, or the application of such provision to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the remainder of this section, or the application of such provision to persons or circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid, shall not be affected thereby. PART 52 [ AMENDED] 1. The authority citation for part 52 continues to read as follows: Authority: 42 U. S. C. 7401, et seq. Subpart A [ Amended] 2. In 40 CFR 52.21( b)( 1)( i)( b) and ( b)( 5), remove the words `` any air pollutant subject to regulation under the Act,'' and add, in their place, the words `` a regulated NSR pollutant.'' 3. In addition to the amendments set forth above, section 52.21 is amended: a. By redesignating paragraph ( a) as paragraph ( a)( 1). b. By adding paragraph ( a)( 2). c. By revising paragraphs ( b)( 2)( i) and ( ii). d. By revising paragraph ( b)( 2)( iii)( h). e. By adding paragraph ( b)( 2)( iv). f. By revising paragraph ( b)( 3)( i). g. By revising paragraphs ( b)( 3)( iii) and ( iv). h. By revising paragraphs ( b)( 3)( vi)( b) and ( c). i. By adding paragraph ( b)( 3)( vi)( d). j. By adding paragraph ( b)( 3)( ix). k. By revising paragraphs ( b)( 7) and ( 8). l. By revising paragraph ( b)( 13). m. By revising paragraph ( b)( 21). n. By removing the following items from the list in paragraph ( b)( 23)( i): `` Asbestos: 0.007 tpy''; `` Beryllium: 0.0004 tpy''; `` Mercury: 0.1 tpy''; and `` Vinyl Chloride: 1 tpy''. o. By revising paragraph ( b)( 32). p. By removing and reserving paragraph ( b)( 33). q. By adding paragraphs ( b)( 39) through ( 48), adding and reserving paragraph ( b)( 49), and by adding paragraphs ( b)( 50) through ( b)( 54). r. By revising the introductory text of paragraph ( i). s. By removing paragraphs ( i)( 1) through ( 3). t. By redesignating paragraphs ( i)( 4) through ( 13) as paragraphs ( i)( 1) through ( 10). u. By removing the following items from the list in newly redesignated paragraph ( i)( 5)( i): `` Mercury 0.25 µ g/ m3, 24­ hour average''; `` Beryllium 0.001 µ g/ m3, 24­ hour average''; `` Vinyl chloride 15 µ g/ m3, 24­ hour average''. v. By adding and reserving paragraphs ( r)( 5) and adding paragraphs ( r)( 6) through ( 7). w. By adding paragraphs ( x) through ( bb). 4. In addition to the amendments set forth above, in 40 CFR 52.21, remove the words `` pollutant subject to regulation under the Act'' and add, in their place, the words `` regulated NSR pollutant'' in the following places: VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00090 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80275 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations a. ( b)( 1)( i)( a); b. ( b)( 2)( i); c. ( b)( 23)( ii); d. newly redesignated ( i)( 4); and e. ( j)( 2) and ( 3). The revisions and additions read as follows: § 52.21 Prevention of significant deterioration of air quality. ( a)( 1) Plan disapproval. * * * ( 2) Applicability procedures. ( i) The requirements of this section apply to the construction of any new major stationary source ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 1) of this section) or any project at an existing major stationary source in an area designated as attainment or unclassifiable under sections 107( d)( 1)( A)( ii) or ( iii) of the Act. ( ii) The requirements of paragraphs ( j) through ( r) of this section apply to the construction of any new major stationary source or the major modification of any existing major stationary source, except as this section otherwise provides. ( iii) No new major stationary source or major modification to which the requirements of paragraphs ( j) through ( r)( 5) of this section apply shall begin actual construction without a permit that states that the major stationary source or major modification will meet those requirements. The Administrator has authority to issue any such permit. ( iv) The requirements of the program will be applied in accordance with the principles set out in paragraphs ( a)( 2)( iv)( a) through ( f) of this section. ( a) Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs ( a)( 2)( v) and ( vi) of this section, and consistent with the definition of major modification contained in paragraph ( b)( 2) of this section, a project is a major modification for a regulated NSR pollutant if it causes two types of emissions increases a significant emissions increase ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 40) of this section), and a significant net emissions increase ( as defined in paragraphs ( b)( 3) and ( b)( 23) of this section). The project is not a major modification if it does not cause a significant emissions increase. If the project causes a significant emissions increase, then the project is a major modification only if it also results in a significant net emissions increase. ( b) The procedure for calculating ( before beginning actual construction) whether a significant emissions increase ( i. e., the first step of the process) will occur depends upon the type of emissions units being modified, according to paragraphs ( a)( 2)( iv)( c) through ( f) of this section. The procedure for calculating ( before beginning actual construction) whether a significant net emissions increase will occur at the major stationary source ( i. e., the second step of the process) is contained in the definition in paragraph ( b)( 3) of this section. Regardless of any such preconstruction projections, a major modification results if the project causes a significant emissions increase and a significant net emissions increase. ( c) Actual­ to­ projected­ actual applicability test for projects that only involve existing emissions units. A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the difference between the projected actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 41) of this section) and the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraphs ( b)( 48)( i) and ( ii) of this section), for each existing emissions unit, equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section). ( d) Actual­ to­ potential test for projects that only involve construction of a new emissions unit( s). A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the difference between the potential to emit ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 4) of this section) from each new emissions unit following completion of the project and the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 48)( iii) of this section) of these units before the project equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section). ( e) Emission test for projects that involve Clean Units. For a project that will be constructed and operated at a Clean Unit without causing the emissions unit to lose its Clean Unit designation, no emissions increase is deemed to occur. ( f) Hybrid test for projects that involve multiple types of emissions units. A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the emissions increases for each emissions unit, using the method specified in paragraphs ( a)( 2)( iv)( c) through ( e) of this section as applicable with respect to each emissions unit, for each type of emissions unit equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section). For example, if a project involves both an existing emissions unit and a Clean Unit, the projected increase is determined by summing the values determined using the method specified in paragraph ( a)( 2)( iv)( c) of this section for the existing unit and using the method specified in paragraph ( a)( 2)( iv)( e) of this section for the Clean Unit. ( v) For any major stationary source for a PAL for a regulated NSR pollutant, the major stationary source shall comply with the requirements under paragraph ( aa) of this section. ( vi) An owner or operator undertaking a PCP ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 32) of this section) shall comply with the requirements under paragraph ( z) of this section. * * * * * ( b) * * * ( 2)( i) Major modification means any physical change in or change in the method of operation of a major stationary source that would result in: a significant emissions increase ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 40) of this section) of a regulated NSR pollutant ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 50) of this section); and a significant net emissions increase of that pollutant from the major stationary source. ( ii) Any significant emissions increase ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 40) of this section) from any emissions units or net emissions increase ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 3) of this section) at a major stationary source that is significant for volatile organic compounds shall be considered significant for ozone. ( iii) * * * ( h) The addition, replacement, or use of a PCP, as defined in paragraph ( b)( 32) of this section, at an existing emissions unit meeting the requirements of paragraph ( z) of this section. A replacement control technology must provide more effective emission control than that of the replaced control technology to qualify for this exclusion. * * * * * ( iv) This definition shall not apply with respect to a particular regulated NSR pollutant when the major stationary source is complying with the requirements under paragraph ( aa) of this section for a PAL for that pollutant. Instead, the definition at paragraph ( aa)( 2)( viii) of this section shall apply. ( 3)( i) Net emissions increase means, with respect to any regulated NSR pollutant emitted by a major stationary source, the amount by which the sum of the following exceeds zero: ( a) The increase in emissions from a particular physical change or change in the method of operation at a stationary source as calculated pursuant to paragraph ( a)( 2)( iv) of this section; and ( b) Any other increases and decreases in actual emissions at the major stationary source that are contemporaneous with the particular change and are otherwise creditable. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00091 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80276 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations Baseline actual emissions for calculating increases and decreases under this paragraph ( b)( 3)( i)( b) shall be determined as provided in paragraph ( b)( 48) of this section, except that paragraphs ( b)( 48)( i)( c) and ( b)( 48)( ii)( d) of this section shall not apply. * * * * * ( iii) An increase or decrease in actual emissions is creditable only if: ( a) The Administrator or other reviewing authority has not relied on it in issuing a permit for the source under this section, which permit is in effect when the increase in actual emissions from the particular change occurs; and ( b) The increase or decrease in emissions did not occur at a Clean Unit except as provided in paragraphs ( x)( 8) and ( y)( 10) of this section. ( iv) An increase or decrease in actual emissions of sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, or nitrogen oxides that occurs before the applicable minor source baseline date is creditable only if it is required to be considered in calculating the amount of maximum allowable increases remaining available. * * * * * ( vi) * * * ( b) It is enforceable as a practical matter at and after the time that actual construction on the particular change begins. ( c) It has approximately the same qualitative significance for public health and welfare as that attributed to the increase from the particular change; and ( d) The decrease in actual emissions did not result from the installation of add­ on control technology or application of pollution prevention practices that were relied on in designating an emissions unit as a Clean Unit under paragraph ( y) of this section or under regulations approved pursuant to § 51.165( d) or to § 51.166( u) of this chapter. That is, once an emissions unit has been designated as a Clean Unit, the owner or operator cannot later use the emissions reduction from the air pollution control measures that the designation is based on in calculating the net emissions increase for another emissions unit ( i. e., must not use that reduction in a `` netting analysis'' for another emissions unit). However, any new emission reductions that were not relied upon in a PCP excluded pursuant to paragraph ( z) of this section or for a Clean Unit designation are creditable to the extent they meet the requirements in paragraph ( z)( 6)( iv) of this section for the PCP and paragraphs ( x)( 8) or ( y)( 10) of this section for a Clean Unit. * * * * * ( ix) Paragraph ( b)( 21)( ii) of this section shall not apply for determining creditable increases and decreases. ( 7) Emissions unit means any part of a stationary source that emits or would have the potential to emit any regulated NSR pollutant and includes an electric utility steam generating unit as defined in paragraph ( b)( 31) of this section. For purposes of this section, there are two types of emissions units as described in paragraphs ( b)( 7)( i) and ( ii) of this section. ( i) A new emissions unit is any emissions unit that is ( or will be) newly constructed and that has existed for less than 2 years from the date such emissions unit first operated. ( ii) An existing emissions unit is any emissions unit that does not meet the requirements in paragraph ( b)( 7)( i) of this section. ( 8) Construction means any physical change or change in the method of operation ( including fabrication, erection, installation, demolition, or modification of an emissions unit) that would result in a change in emissions. * * * * * ( 13)( i) Baseline concentration means that ambient concentration level that exists in the baseline area at the time of the applicable minor source baseline date. A baseline concentration is determined for each pollutant for which a minor source baseline date is established and shall include: ( a) The actual emissions, as defined in paragraph ( b)( 21) of this section, representative of sources in existence on the applicable minor source baseline date, except as provided in paragraph ( b)( 13)( ii) of this section; and ( b) The allowable emissions of major stationary sources that commenced construction before the major source baseline date, but were not in operation by the applicable minor source baseline date. ( ii) The following will not be included in the baseline concentration and will affect the applicable maximum allowable increase( s): ( a) Actual emissions, as defined in paragraph ( b)( 21) of this section, from any major stationary source on which construction commenced after the major source baseline date; and ( b) Actual emissions increases and decreases, as defined in paragraph ( b)( 21) of this section, at any stationary source occurring after the minor source baseline date. * * * * * ( 21)( i) Actual emissions means the actual rate of emissions of a regulated NSR pollutant from an emissions unit, as determined in accordance with paragraphs ( b)( 21)( ii) through ( iv) of this section, except that this definition shall not apply for calculating whether a significant emissions increase has occurred, or for establishing a PAL under paragraph ( aa) of this section. Instead, paragraphs ( b)( 41) and ( b)( 48) of this section shall apply for those purposes. ( ii) In general, actual emissions as of a particular date shall equal the average rate, in tons per year, at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during a consecutive 24­ month period which precedes the particular date and which is representative of normal source operation. The Administrator shall allow the use of a different time period upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source operation. Actual emissions shall be calculated using the unit's actual operating hours, production rates, and types of materials processed, stored, or combusted during the selected time period. ( iii) The Administrator may presume that source­ specific allowable emissions for the unit are equivalent to the actual emissions of the unit. ( iv) For any emissions unit that has not begun normal operations on the particular date, actual emissions shall equal the potential to emit of the unit on that date. * * * * * ( 32) Pollution control project ( PCP) means any activity, set of work practices or project ( including pollution prevention as defined under paragraph ( b)( 39) of this section) undertaken at an existing emissions unit that reduces emissions of air pollutants from such unit. Such qualifying activities or projects can include the replacement or upgrade of an existing emissions control technology with a more effective unit. Other changes that may occur at the source are not considered part of the PCP if they are not necessary to reduce emissions through the PCP. Projects listed in paragraphs ( b)( 32)( i) through ( vi) of this section are presumed to be environmentally beneficial pursuant to paragraph ( z)( 2)( i) of this section. Projects not listed in these paragraphs may qualify for a case­ specific PCP exclusion pursuant to the requirements of paragraphs ( z)( 2) and ( z)( 5) of this section. ( i) Conventional or advanced flue gas desulfurization or sorbent injection for control of SO2. ( ii) Electrostatic precipitators, baghouses, high efficiency multiclones, or scrubbers for control of particulate matter or other pollutants. ( iii) Flue gas recirculation, low­ NOX burners or combustors, selective non­ VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00092 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80277 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations catalytic reduction, selective catalytic reduction, low emission combustion ( for IC engines), and oxidation/ absorption catalyst for control of NOX. ( iv) Regenerative thermal oxidizers, catalytic oxidizers, condensers, thermal incinerators, hydrocarbon combustion flares, biofiltration, absorbers and adsorbers, and floating roofs for storage vessels for control of volatile organic compounds or hazardous air pollutants. For the purpose of this section, `` hydrocarbon combustion flare'' means either a flare used to comply with an applicable NSPS or MACT standard ( including uses of flares during startup, shutdown, or malfunction permitted under such a standard), or a flare that serves to control emissions of waste streams comprised predominately of hydrocarbons and containing no more than 230 mg/ dscm hydrogen sulfide. ( v) Activities or projects undertaken to accommodate switching ( or partially switching) to an inherently less polluting fuel, to be limited to the following fuel switches: ( a) Switching from a heavier grade of fuel oil to a lighter fuel oil, or any grade of oil to 0.05 percent sulfur diesel ( i. e., from a higher sulfur content # 2 fuel or from # 6 fuel, to CA 0.05 percent sulfur # 2 diesel); ( b) Switching from coal, oil, or any solid fuel to natural gas, propane, or gasified coal; ( c) Switching from coal to wood, excluding construction or demolition waste, chemical or pesticide treated wood, and other forms of `` unclean'' wood; ( d) Switching from coal to # 2 fuel oil ( 0.5 percent maximum sulfur content); and ( e) Switching from high sulfur coal to low sulfur coal ( maximum 1.2 percent sulfur content). ( vi) Activities or projects undertaken to accommodate switching from the use of one ozone depleting substance ( ODS) to the use of a substance with a lower or zero ozone depletion potential ( ODP,) including changes to equipment needed to accommodate the activity or project, that meet the requirements of paragraphs ( b)( 32)( vi)( a) and ( b) of this section. ( a) The productive capacity of the equipment is not increased as a result of the activity or project. ( b) The projected usage of the new substance is lower, on an ODP­ weighted basis, than the baseline usage of the replaced ODS. To make this determination, follow the procedure in paragraphs ( b)( 32)( vi)( b)( 1) through ( 4) of this section. ( 1) Determine the ODP of the substances by consulting 40 CFR part 82, subpart A, appendices A and B. ( 2) Calculate the replaced ODPweighted amount by multiplying the baseline actual usage ( using the annualized average of any 24 consecutive months of usage within the past 10 years) by the ODP of the replaced ODS. ( 3) Calculate the projected ODPweighted amount by multiplying the projected actual usage of the new substance by its ODP. ( 4) If the value calculated in paragraph ( b)( 32)( vi)( b)( 2) of this section is more than the value calculated in paragraph ( b)( 32)( vi)( b)( 3) of this section, then the projected use of the new substance is lower, on an ODPweighted basis, than the baseline usage of the replaced ODS. ( 33) [ Reserved] * * * * * ( 39) Pollution prevention means any activity that through process changes, product reformulation or redesign, or substitution of less polluting raw materials, eliminates or reduces the release of air pollutants ( including fugitive emissions) and other pollutants to the environment prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal; it does not mean recycling ( other than certain `` in­ process recycling'' practices), energy recovery, treatment, or disposal. ( 40) Significant emissions increase means, for a regulated NSR pollutant, an increase in emissions that is significant ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section) for that pollutant. ( 41)( i) Projected actual emissions means the maximum annual rate, in tons per year, at which an existing emissions unit is projected to emit a regulated NSR pollutant in any one of the 5 years ( 12­ month period) following the date the unit resumes regular operation after the project, or in any one of the 10 years following that date, if the project involves increasing the emissions unit's design capacity or its potential to emit that regulated NSR pollutant and full utilization of the unit would result in a significant emissions increase or a significant net emissions increase at the major stationary source. ( ii) In determining the projected actual emissions under paragraph ( b)( 41)( i) of this section ( before beginning actual construction), the owner or operator of the major stationary source: ( a) Shall consider all relevant information, including but not limited to, historical operational data, the company's own representations, the company's expected business activity and the company's highest projections of business activity, the company's filings with the State or Federal regulatory authorities, and compliance plans under the approved State Implementation Plan; and ( b) Shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable and emissions associated with startups, shutdowns, and malfunctions; and ( c) Shall exclude, in calculating any increase in emissions that results from he particular project, that portion of the unit's emissions following the project that an existing unit could have accommodated during the consecutive 24­ month period used to establish the baseline actual emissions under paragraph ( b)( 48) of this section and that are also unrelated to the particular project, including any increased utilization due to product demand growth; or ( d) In lieu of using the method set out in paragraphs ( a)( 41)( ii)( a) through ( c) of this section, may elect to use the emissions unit's potential to emit, in tons per year, as defined under paragraph ( b)( 4) of this section. ( 42) Clean Unit means any emissions unit that has been issued a major NSR permit that requires compliance with BACT or LAER, is complying with such BACT/ LAER requirements, and qualifies as a Clean Unit pursuant to paragraph ( x) of this section; or any emissions unit that has been designated by the Administrator as a Clean Unit, based on the criteria in paragraphs ( y)( 3)( i) through ( iv) of this section; or any emissions unit that has been issued a major NSR permit that requires compliance with BACT or LAER, is complying with such BACT/ LAER requirements, and qualifies as a Clean Unit pursuant to regulations approved into the State Implementation Plan in accordance with § 51.165( c) or § 51.166( u) of this chapter; or any emissions unit that has been designated by the reviewing authority as a Clean Unit in accordance with regulations approved into the plan to carry out § 51.165( d) or § 51.166( u) of this chapter. ( 43) Prevention of Significant Deterioration ( PSD) program means the EPA­ implemented major source preconstruction permit programs under this section or a major source preconstruction permit program that has been approved by the Administrator and incorporated into the State Implementation Plan pursuant to § 51.166 of this chapter to implement the requirements of that section. Any permit issued under such a program is a major NSR permit. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00093 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80278 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations ( 44) Continuous emissions monitoring system ( CEMS) means all of the equipment that may be required to meet the data acquisition and availability requirements of this section, to sample, condition ( if applicable), analyze, and provide a record of emissions on a continuous basis. ( 45) Predictive emissions monitoring system ( PEMS) means all of the equipment necessary to monitor process and control device operational parameters ( for example, control device secondary voltages and electric currents) and other information ( for example, gas flow rate, O2 or CO2 concentrations), and calculate and record the mass emissions rate ( for example, lb/ hr) on a continuous basis. ( 46) Continuous parameter monitoring system ( CPMS) means all of the equipment necessary to meet the data acquisition and availability requirements of this section, to monitor process and control device operational parameters ( for example, control device secondary voltages and electric currents) and other information ( for example, gas flow rate, O2 or CO2 concentrations), and to record average operational parameter value( s) on a continuous basis. ( 47) Continuous emissions rate monitoring system ( CERMS) means the total equipment required for the determination and recording of the pollutant mass emissions rate ( in terms of mass per unit of time). ( 48) Baseline actual emissions means the rate of emissions, in tons per year, of a regulated NSR pollutant, as determined in accordance with paragraphs ( b)( 48)( i) through ( iv) of this section. ( i) For any existing electric utility steam generating unit, baseline actual emissions means the average rate, in tons per year, at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during any consecutive 24­ month period selected by the owner or operator within the 5­ year period immediately preceding when the owner or operator begins actual construction of the project. The Administrator shall allow the use of a different time period upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source operation. ( a) The average rate shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions associated with startups, shutdowns, and malfunctions. ( b) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any noncompliant emissions that occurred while the source was operating above any emission limitation that was legally enforceable during the consecutive 24­ month period. ( c) For a regulated NSR pollutant, when a project involves multiple emissions units, only one consecutive 24­ month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for the emissions units being changed. A different consecutive 24­ month period can be used For each regulated NSR pollutant. ( d) The average rate shall not be based on any consecutive 24­ month period for which there is inadequate information for determining annual emissions, in tons per year, and for adjusting this amount if required by paragraph ( b)( 48)( i)( b) of this section. ( ii) For an existing emissions unit ( other than an electric utility steam generating unit), baseline actual emissions means the average rate, in tons per year, at which the emissions unit actually emitted the pollutant during any consecutive 24­ month period selected by the owner or operator within the 10­ year period immediately preceding either the date the owner or operator begins actual construction of the project, or the date a complete permit application is received by the Administrator for a permit required under this section or by the reviewing authority for a permit required by a plan, whichever is earlier, except that the 10­ year period shall not include any period earlier than November 15, 1990. ( a) The average rate shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions associated with startups, shutdowns, and malfunctions. ( b) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any noncompliant emissions that occurred while the source was operating above an emission limitation that was legally enforceable during the consecutive 24­ month period. ( c) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any emissions that would have exceeded an emission limitation with which the major stationary source must currently comply, had such major stationary source been required to comply with such limitations during the consecutive 24­ month period. However, if an emission limitation is part of a maximum achievable control technology standard that the Administrator proposed or promulgated under part 63 of this chapter, the baseline actual emissions need only be adjusted if the State has taken credit for such emissions reductions in an attainment demonstration or maintenance plan consistent with the requirements of § 51.165( a)( 3)( ii)( G) of this chapter. ( d) For a regulated NSR pollutant, when a project involves multiple emissions units, only one consecutive 24­ month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for all the emissions units being changed. A different consecutive 24­ month period can be used For each regulated NSR pollutant. ( e) The average rate shall not be based on any consecutive 24­ month period for which there is inadequate information for determining annual emissions, in tons per year, and for adjusting this amount if required by paragraphs ( b)( 48)( ii)( b) and ( c) of this section. ( iii) For a new emissions unit, the baseline actual emissions for purposes of determining the emissions increase that will result from the initial construction and operation of such unit shall equal zero; and thereafter, for all other purposes, shall equal the unit's potential to emit. ( iv) For a PAL for a stationary source, the baseline actual emissions shall be calculated for existing electric utility steam generating units in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph ( b)( 48)( i) of this section, for other existing emissions units in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph ( b)( 48)( ii) of this section, and for a new emissions unit in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph ( b)( 48)( iii) of this section. ( 49) [ Reserved] ( 50) Regulated NSR pollutant, for purposes of this section, means the following: ( i) Any pollutant for which a national ambient air quality standard has been promulgated and any constituents or precursors for such pollutants identified by the Administrator ( e. g., volatile organic compounds are precursors for ozone); ( ii) Any pollutant that is subject to any standard promulgated under section 111 of the Act; ( iii) Any Class I or II substance subject to a standard promulgated under or established by title VI of the Act; or ( iv) Any pollutant that otherwise is subject to regulation under the Act; except that any or all hazardous air pollutants either listed in section 112 of the Act or added to the list pursuant to section 112( b)( 2) of the Act, which have not been delisted pursuant to section 112( b)( 3) of the Act, are not regulated NSR pollutants unless the listed hazardous air pollutant is also regulated as a constituent or precursor of a general pollutant listed under section 108 of the Act. VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00094 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80279 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations ( 51) Reviewing authority means the State air pollution control agency, local agency, other State agency, Indian tribe, or other agency authorized by the Administrator to carry out a permit program under § 51.165 and § 51.166 of this chapter, or the Administrator in the case of EPA­ implemented permit programs under this section. ( 52) Project means a physical change in, or change in the method of operation of, an existing major stationary source. ( 53) Lowest achievable emission rate ( LAER) is as defined in § 51.165( a)( 1)( xiii) of this chapter. ( 54) Reasonably available control technology ( RACT) is as defined in § 51.100( o) of this chapter. * * * * * ( i) Exemptions. * * * * * * * * ( r) * * * ( 5) [ Reserved] ( 6) The provisions of this paragraph ( r)( 6) apply to projects at an existing emissions unit at a major stationary source ( other than projects at a Clean Unit or at a source with a PAL) in circumstances where there is a reasonable possibility that a project that is not a part of a major modification may result in a significant emissions increase and the owner or operator elects to use the method specified in paragraphs ( b)( 41)( ii)( a) through ( c) of this section for calculating projected actual emissions. ( i) Before beginning actual construction of the project, the owner or operator shall document and maintain a record of the following information: ( a) A description of the project; ( b) Identification of the emissions unit( s) whose emissions of a regulated NSR pollutant could be affected by the project; and ( c) A description of the applicability test used to determine that the project is not a major modification for any regulated NSR pollutant, including the baseline actual emissions, the projected actual emissions, the amount of emissions excluded under paragraph ( b)( 41)( ii)( c) of this section and an explanation for why such amount was excluded, and any netting calculations, if applicable. ( ii) If the emissions unit is an existing electric utility steam generating unit, before beginning actual construction, the owner or operator shall provide a copy of the information set out in paragraph ( r)( 6)( i) of this section to the Administrator. Nothing in this paragraph ( r)( 6)( ii) shall be construed to require the owner or operator of such a unit to obtain any determination from the Administrator before beginning actual construction. ( iii) The owner or operator shall monitor the emissions of any regulated NSR pollutant that could increase as a result of the project and that is emitted by any emissions unit identified in paragraph ( r)( 6)( i)( b) of this section; and calculate and maintain a record of the annual emissions, in tons per year on a calendar year basis, for a period of 5 years following resumption of regular operations after the change, or for a period of 10 years following resumption of regular operations after the change if the project increases the design capacity of or potential to emit that regulated NSR pollutant at such emissions unit. ( iv) If the unit is an existing electric utility steam generating unit, the owner or operator shall submit a report to the Administrator within 60 days after the end of each year during which records must be generated under paragraph ( r)( 6)( iii) of this section setting out the unit's annual emissions during the calendar year that preceded submission of the report. ( v) If the unit is an existing unit other than an electric utility steam generating unit, the owner or operator shall submit a report to the Administrator if the annual emissions, in tons per year, from the project identified in paragraph ( r)( 6)( i) of this section, exceed the baseline actual emissions ( as documented and maintained pursuant to paragraph ( r)( 6)( i)( c) of this section), by a significant amount ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section) for that regulated NSR pollutant, and if such emissions differ from the preconstruction projection as documented and maintained pursuant to paragraph ( r)( 6)( i)( c) of this section. Such report shall be submitted to the Administrator within 60 days after the end of such year. The report shall contain the following: ( a) The name, address and telephone number of the major stationary source; ( b) The annual emissions as calculated pursuant to paragraph ( r)( 6)( iii) of this section; and ( c) Any other information that the owner or operator wishes to include in the report ( e. g., an explanation as to why the emissions differ from the preconstruction projection). ( 7) The owner or operator of the source shall make the information required to be documented and maintained pursuant to paragraph ( r)( 6) of this section available for review upon a request for inspection by the Administrator or the general public pursuant to the requirements contained in § 70.4( b)( 3)( viii) of this chapter. * * * * * ( x) Clean Unit Test for emissions units that are subject to BACT or LAER. An owner or operator of a major stationary source has the option of using the Clean Unit Test to determine whether emissions increases at a Clean Unit are part of a project that is a major modification according to the provisions in paragraphs ( x)( 1) through ( 9) of this section. ( 1) Applicability. The provisions of this paragraph ( x) apply to any emissions unit for which a reviewing authority has issued a major NSR permit within the last 10 years. ( 2) General provisions for Clean Units. The provisions in paragraphs ( x)( 2)( i) through ( iv) of this section apply to a Clean Unit. ( i) Any project for which the owner or operator begins actual construction after the effective date of the Clean Unit designation ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( x)( 4) of this section) and before the expiration date ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( x)( 5) of this section) will be considered to have occurred while the emissions unit was a Clean Unit. ( ii) If a project at a Clean Unit does not cause the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that were adopted in conjunction with BACT and the project would not alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT determination as specified in paragraph ( x)( 6)( iv) of this section, the emissions unit remains a Clean Unit. ( iii) If a project causes the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that were adopted in conjunction with BACT or the project would alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT determination as specified in paragraph ( x)( 6)( iv) of this section, then the emissions unit loses its designation as a Clean Unit upon issuance of the necessary permit revisions ( unless the unit re­ qualifies as a Clean Unit pursuant to paragraph ( x)( 3)( iii) of this section). If the owner or operator begins actual construction on the project without first applying to revise the emissions unit's permit, the Clean Unit designation ends immediately prior to the time when actual construction begins. ( iv) A project that causes an emissions unit to lose its designation as a Clean Unit is subject to the applicability requirements of paragraphs ( a)( 2)( iv)( a) through ( d) and paragraph ( a)( 2)( iv)( f) of this section as if the emissions unit is not a Clean Unit. ( 3) Qualifying or re­ qualifying to use the Clean Unit Applicability Test. An emissions unit automatically qualifies VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00095 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80280 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations as a Clean Unit when the unit meets the criteria in paragraphs ( x)( 3)( i) and ( ii) of this section. After the original Clean Unit expires in accordance with paragraph ( x)( 5) of this section or is lost pursuant to paragraph ( x)( 2)( iii) of this section, such emissions unit may requalify as a Clean Unit under either paragraph ( x)( 3)( iii) of this section, or under the Clean Unit provisions in paragraph ( y) of this section. To requalify as a Clean Unit under paragraph ( x)( 3)( iii) of this section, the emissions unit must obtain a new major NSR permit issued through the applicable PSD program and meet all the criteria in paragraph ( x)( 3)( iii) of this section. The Clean Unit designation applies individually for each pollutant emitted by the emissions unit. ( i) Permitting requirement. The emissions unit must have received a major NSR permit within the last 10 years. The owner or operator must maintain and be able to provide information that would demonstrate that this permitting requirement is met. ( ii) Qualifying air pollution control technologies. Air pollutant emissions from the emissions unit must be reduced through the use of air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention as defined under paragraph ( b)( 39) of this section or work practices) that meets both the following requirements in paragraphs ( x)( 3)( ii)( a) and ( b) of this section. ( a) The control technology achieves the BACT or LAER level of emissions reductions as determined through issuance of a major NSR permit within the past 10 years. However, the emissions unit is not eligible for the Clean Unit designation if the BACT determination resulted in no requirement to reduce emissions below the level of a standard, uncontrolled, new emissions unit of the same type. ( b) The owner or operator made an investment to install the control technology. For the purpose of this determination, an investment includes expenses to research the application of a pollution prevention technique to the emissions unit or expenses to apply a pollution prevention technique to an emissions unit. ( iii) Re­ qualifying for the Clean Unit designation. The emissions unit must obtain a new major NSR permit that requires compliance with the currentday BACT ( or LAER), and the emissions unit must meet the requirements in paragraphs ( x)( 3)( i) and ( x)( 3)( ii) of this section. ( 4) Effective date of the Clean Unit designation. The effective date of an emissions unit's Clean Unit designation ( that is, the date on which the owner or operator may begin to use the Clean Unit Test to determine whether a project at the emissions unit is a major modification) is determined according to the applicable paragraph ( x)( 4)( i) or ( x)( 4)( ii) of this section. ( i) Original Clean Unit designation, and emissions units that re­ qualify as Clean Units by implementing new control technology to meet current­ day BACT. The effective date is the date the emissions unit's air pollution control technology is placed into service, or 3 years after the issuance date of the major NSR permit, whichever is earlier, but no sooner than March 3, 2003, that is the date these provisions become effective. ( ii) Emissions units that re­ qualify for the Clean Unit designation using an existing control technology. The effective date is the date the new, major NSR permit is issued. ( 5) Clean Unit expiration. An emissions unit's Clean Unit designation expires ( that is, the date on which the owner or operator may no longer use the Clean Unit Test to determine whether a project affecting the emissions unit is, or is part of, a major modification) according to the applicable paragraph ( x)( 5)( i) or ( ii) of this section. ( i) Original Clean Unit designation, and emissions units that re­ qualify by implementing new control technology to meet current­ day BACT. For any emissions unit that automatically qualifies as a Clean Unit under paragraphs ( x)( 3)( i) and ( ii) of this section or re­ qualifies by implementing new control technology to meet currentday BACT under paragraph ( x)( 3)( iii) of this section, the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years after the effective date, or the date the equipment went into service, whichever is earlier; or, it expires at any time the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining the Clean Unit designation in paragraph ( x)( 7) of this section. ( ii) Emissions units that re­ qualify for the Clean Unit designation using an existing control technology. For any emissions unit that re­ qualifies as a Clean Unit under paragraph ( x)( 3)( iii) of this section using an existing control technology, the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years after the effective date; or, it expires any time the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining the Clean Unit designation in paragraph ( x)( 7) of this section. ( 6) Required title V permit content for a Clean Unit. After the effective date of the Clean Unit designation, and in accordance with the provisions of the applicable title V permit program under part 70 or part 71 of this chapter, but no later than when the title V permit is renewed, the title V permit for the major stationary source must include the following terms and conditions in paragraphs ( x)( 6)( i) through ( vi) of this section related to the Clean Unit. ( i) A statement indicating that the emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit and identifying the pollutant( s) for which this designation applies. ( ii) The effective date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the Clean Unit designation is initially recorded in the title V permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), the permit must describe the event that will determine the effective date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the effective date is determined, the owner or operator must notify the Administrator of the exact date. This specific effective date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iii) The expiration date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the Clean Unit designation is initially recorded into the title V permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), then the permit must describe the event that will determine the expiration date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the expiration date is determined, the owner or operator must notify the Administrator of the exact date. The expiration date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iv) All emission limitations and work practice requirements adopted in conjunction with BACT, and any physical or operational characteristics which formed the basis for the BACT determination ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( v) Monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements as necessary to demonstrate that the emissions unit continues to meet the criteria for maintaining the Clean Unit designation. ( See paragraph ( x)( 7) of this section.) ( vi) Terms reflecting the owner or operator's duties to maintain the Clean Unit designation and the consequences of failing to do so, as presented in paragraph ( x)( 7) of this section. ( 7) Maintaining the Clean Unit designation. To maintain the Clean Unit VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00096 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80281 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations designation, the owner or operator must conform to all the restrictions listed in paragraphs ( x)( 7)( i) through ( iii) of this section. This paragraph ( x)( 7) applies independently to each pollutant for which the emissions unit has the Clean Unit designation. That is, failing to conform to the restrictions for one pollutant affects the Clean Unit designation only for that pollutant. ( i) The Clean Unit must comply with the emission limitation( s) and/ or work practice requirements adopted in conjunction with the BACT that is recorded in the major NSR permit, and subsequently reflected in the title V permit. The owner or operator may not make a physical change in or change in the method of operation of the Clean Unit that causes the emissions unit to function in a manner that is inconsistent with the physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the BACT determination ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( ii) The Clean Unit must comply with any terms and conditions in the title V permit related to the unit's Clean Unit designation. ( iii) The Clean Unit must continue to control emissions using the specific air pollution control technology that was the basis for its Clean Unit designation. If the emissions unit or control technology is replaced, then the Clean Unit designation ends. ( 8) Netting at Clean Units. Emissions changes that occur at a Clean Unit must not be included in calculating a significant net emissions increase ( that is, must not be used in a `` netting analysis''), unless such use occurs before the effective date of the Clean Unit designation, or after the Clean Unit designation expires; or, unless the emissions unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit. However, if the Clean Unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit, then the owner or operator may generate a credit for the difference between the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit and the new emissions limit if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, and permanent. For purposes of generating offsets, the reductions must also be federally enforceable. For purposes of determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases, the reductions must also be enforceable as a practical matter. ( 9) Effect of redesignation on the Clean Unit designation. The Clean Unit designation of an emissions unit is not affected by re­ designation of the attainment status of the area in which it is located. That is, if a Clean Unit is located in an attainment area and the area is redesignated to nonattainment, its Clean Unit designation is not affected. Similarly, redesignation from nonattainment to attainment does not affect the Clean Unit designation. However, if an existing Clean Unit designation expires, it must re­ qualify under the requirements that are currently applicable in the area. ( y) Clean Unit provisions for emissions units that achieve an emission limitation comparable to BACT. An owner or operator of a major stationary source has the option of using the Clean Unit Test to determine whether emissions increases at a Clean Unit are part of a project that is a major modification according to the provisions in paragraphs ( y)( 1) through ( 11) of this section. ( 1) Applicability. The provisions of this paragraph ( y) apply to emissions units which do not qualify as Clean Units under paragraph ( x) of this section, but which are achieving a level of emissions control comparable to BACT, as determined by the Administrator in accordance with this paragraph ( y). ( 2) General provisions for Clean Units. The provisions in paragraphs ( y)( 2)( i) through ( iv) of this section apply to a Clean Unit ( designated under this paragraph ( y)). ( i) Any project for which the owner or operator begins actual construction after the effective date of the Clean Unit designation ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( y)( 5) of this section) and before the expiration date ( as determined in accordance with paragraph ( y)( 6) of this section) will be considered to have occurred while the emissions unit was a Clean Unit. ( ii) If a project at a Clean Unit does not cause the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that have been determined ( pursuant to paragraph ( y)( 4) of this section) to be comparable to BACT, and the project would not alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for determining that the emissions unit's control technology achieves a level of emissions control comparable to BACT as specified in paragraph ( y)( 8)( iv) of this section, the emissions unit remains a Clean Unit. ( iii) If a project causes the need for a change in the emission limitations or work practice requirements in the permit for the unit that have been determined ( pursuant to paragraph ( y)( 4) of this section) to be comparable to BACT, or the project would alter any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for determining that the emissions unit's control technology achieves a level of emissions control comparable to BACT as specified in paragraph ( y)( 8)( iv) of this section, then the emissions unit loses its designation as a Clean Unit upon issuance of the necessary permit revisions ( unless the unit re­ qualifies as a Clean Unit pursuant to paragraph ( u)( 3)( iv) of this section). If the owner or operator begins actual construction on the project without first applying to revise the emissions unit's permit, the Clean Unit designation ends immediately prior to the time when actual construction begins. ( iv) A project that causes an emissions unit to lose its designation as a Clean Unit is subject to the applicability requirements of paragraphs ( a)( 2)( iv)( a) through ( d) and paragraph ( a)( 2)( iv)( f) of this section as if the emissions unit is not a Clean Unit. ( 3) Qualifying or re­ qualifying to use the Clean Unit applicability test. An emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit when the unit meets the criteria in paragraphs ( y)( 3)( i) through ( iii) of this section. After the original Clean Unit designation expires in accordance with paragraph ( y)( 6) of this section or is lost pursuant to paragraph ( y)( 2)( iii) of this section, such emissions unit may requalify as a Clean Unit under either paragraph ( y)( 3)( iv) of this section, or under the Clean Unit provisions in paragraph ( x) of this section. To requalify as a Clean Unit under paragraph ( y)( 3)( iv) of this section, the emissions unit must obtain a new permit issued pursuant to the requirements in paragraphs ( y)( 7) and ( 8) of this section and meet all the criteria in paragraph ( y)( 3)( iv) of this section. The Administrator will make a separate Clean Unit designation for each pollutant emitted by the emissions unit for which the emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit. ( i) Qualifying air pollution control technologies. Air pollutant emissions from the emissions unit must be reduced through the use of air pollution control technology ( which includes pollution prevention as defined under paragraph ( b)( 39) of this section or work practices) that meets both the following requirements in paragraphs ( y)( 3)( i)( a) and ( b) of this section. ( a) The owner or operator has demonstrated that the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to BACT according to the requirements of paragraph ( y)( 4) of this section. However, the emissions unit is not eligible for a Clean Unit designation if its emissions are not reduced below the level of a standard, uncontrolled VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00097 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80282 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations emissions unit of the same type ( e. g., if the BACT determinations to which it is compared have resulted in a determination that no control measures are required). ( b) The owner or operator made an investment to install the control technology. For the purpose of this determination, an investment includes expenses to research the application of a pollution prevention technique to the emissions unit or to retool the unit to apply a pollution prevention technique. ( ii) Impact of emissions from the unit. The Administrator must determine that the allowable emissions from the emissions unit will not cause or contribute to a violation of any national ambient air quality standard or PSD increment, or adversely impact an air quality related value ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which information is available to the general public. ( iii) Date of installation. An emissions unit may qualify as a Clean Unit even if the control technology, on which the Clean Unit designation is based, was installed before March 3, 2003. However, for such emissions units, the owner or operator must apply for the Clean Unit designation before December 31, 2004. For technologies installed on and after March 3, 2003, the owner or operator must apply for the Clean Unit designation at the time the control technology is installed. ( iv) Re­ qualifying as a Clean Unit. The emissions unit must obtain a new permit ( pursuant to requirements in paragraphs ( y)( 7) and ( 8) of this section) that demonstrates that the emissions unit's control technology is achieving a level of emission control comparable to current­ day BACT, and the emissions unit must meet the requirements in paragraphs ( y)( 3)( i)( a) and ( y)( 3)( ii) of this section. ( 4) Demonstrating control effectiveness comparable to BACT. The owner or operator may demonstrate that the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to BACT for purposes of paragraph ( y)( 3)( i) of this section according to either paragraph ( y)( 4)( i) or ( ii) of this section. Paragraph ( y)( 4)( iii) of this section specifies the time for making this comparison. ( i) Comparison to previous BACT and LAER determinations. The Administrator maintains an on­ line data base of previous determinations of RACT, BACT, and LAER in the RACT/ BACT/ LAER Clearinghouse ( RBLC). The emissions unit's control technology is presumed to be comparable to BACT if it achieves an emission limitation that is equal to or better than the average of the emission limitations achieved by all the sources for which a BACT or LAER determination has been made within the preceding 5 years and entered into the RBLC, and for which it is technically feasible to apply the BACT or LAER control technology to the emissions unit. The Administrator shall also compare this presumption to any additional BACT or LAER determinations of which he or she is aware, and shall consider any information on achieved­ in­ practice pollution control technologies provided during the public comment period, to determine whether any presumptive determination that the control technology is comparable to BACT is correct. ( ii) The substantially­ as­ effective test. The owner or operator may demonstrate that the emissions unit's control technology is substantially as effective as BACT. In addition, any other person may present evidence related to whether the control technology is substantially as effective as BACT during the public participation process required under paragraph ( y)( 7) of this section. The Administrator shall consider such evidence on a case­ by­ case basis and determine whether the emissions unit's air pollution control technology is substantially as effective as BACT. ( iii) Time of comparison. ( a) Emissions units with control technologies that are installed before March 3, 2003. The owner or operator of an emissions unit whose control technology is installed before March 3, 2003 may, at its option, either demonstrate that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to the BACT requirements that applied at the time the control technology was installed, or demonstrate that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to current­ day BACT requirements. The expiration date of the Clean Unit designation will depend on which option the owner or operator uses, as specified in paragraph ( y)( 6) of this section. ( b) Emissions units with control technologies that are installed on and after March 3, 2003. The owner or operator must demonstrate that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to current­ day BACT requirements. ( 5) Effective date of the Clean Unit designation. The effective date of an emissions unit's Clean Unit designation ( that is, the date on which the owner or operator may begin to use the Clean Unit Test to determine whether a project involving the emissions unit is a major modification) is the date that the permit required by paragraph ( y)( 7) of this section is issued or the date that the emissions unit's air pollution control technology is placed into service, whichever is later. ( 6) Clean Unit expiration. If the owner or operator demonstrates that the emission limitation achieved by the emissions unit's control technology is comparable to the BACT requirements that applied at the time the control technology was installed, then the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years from the date that the control technology was installed. For all other emissions units, the Clean Unit designation expires 10 years from the effective date of the Clean Unit designation, as determined according to paragraph ( y)( 5) of this section. In addition, for all emissions units, the Clean Unit designation expires any time the owner or operator fails to comply with the provisions for maintaining the Clean Unit designation in paragraph ( y)( 9) of this section. ( 7) Procedures for designating emissions units as Clean Units. The Administrator shall designate an emissions unit a Clean Unit only by issuing a permit through a permitting program that has been approved by the Administrator and that conforms with the requirements of § § 51.160 through 51.164 of this chapter including requirements for public notice of the proposed Clean Unit designation and opportunity for public comment. Such permit must also meet the requirements in paragraph ( y)( 8) of this section. ( 8) Required permit content. The permit required by paragraph ( y)( 7) of this section shall include the terms and conditions set forth in paragraphs ( y)( 8)( i) through ( vi) of this section. Such terms and conditions shall be incorporated into the major stationary source's title V permit in accordance with the provisions of the applicable title V permit program under part 70 or part 71 of this chapter, but no later than when the title V permit is renewed. ( i) A statement indicating that the emissions unit qualifies as a Clean Unit and identifying the pollutant( s) for which this designation applies. ( ii) The effective date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the Administrator issues the permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), then the permit must describe the event that will determine the effective date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the effective date is known, then the owner or operator must notify the Administrator of the exact date. This specific effective date must be VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00098 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80283 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iii) The expiration date of the Clean Unit designation. If this date is not known when the Administrator issues the permit ( e. g., because the air pollution control technology is not yet in service), then the permit must describe the event that will determine the expiration date ( e. g., the date the control technology is placed into service). Once the expiration date is known, then the owner or operator must notify the Administrator of the exact date. The expiration date must be added to the source's title V permit at the first opportunity, such as a modification, revision, reopening, or renewal of the title V permit for any reason, whichever comes first, but in no case later than the next renewal. ( iv) All emission limitations and work practice requirements adopted in conjunction with emission limitations necessary to assure that the control technology continues to achieve an emission limitation comparable to BACT, and any physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for determining that the emissions unit's control technology achieves a level of emissions control comparable to BACT ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( v) Monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements as necessary to demonstrate that the emissions unit continues to meet the criteria for maintaining its Clean Unit designation. ( See paragraph ( y)( 9) of this section.) ( vi) Terms reflecting the owner or operator's duties to maintain the Clean Unit designation and the consequences of failing to do so, as presented in paragraph ( y)( 9) of this section. ( 9) Maintaining a Clean Unit designation. To maintain the Clean Unit designation, the owner or operator must conform to all the restrictions listed in paragraphs ( y)( 9)( i) through ( v) of this section. This paragraph ( y)( 9) applies independently to each pollutant for which the Administrator has designated the emissions unit a Clean Unit. That is, failing to conform to the restrictions for one pollutant affects the Clean Unit designation only for that pollutant. ( i) The Clean Unit must comply with the emission limitation( s) and/ or work practice requirements adopted to ensure that the control technology continues to achieve emission control comparable to BACT. ( ii) The owner or operator may not make a physical change in or change in the method of operation of the Clean Unit that causes the emissions unit to function in a manner that is inconsistent with the physical or operational characteristics that formed the basis for the determination that the control technology is achieving a level of emission control that is comparable to BACT ( e. g., possibly the emissions unit's capacity or throughput). ( iii) [ Reserved] ( iv) The Clean Unit must comply with any terms and conditions in the title V permit related to the unit's Clean Unit designation. ( v) The Clean Unit must continue to control emissions using the specific air pollution control technology that was the basis for its Clean Unit designation. If the emissions unit or control technology is replaced, then the Clean Unit designation ends. ( 10) Netting at Clean Units. Emissions changes that occur at a Clean Unit must not be included in calculating a significant net emissions increase ( that is, must not be used in a `` netting analysis'') unless such use occurs before March 3, 2003 or after the Clean Unit designation expires; or, unless the emissions unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit. However, if the Clean Unit reduces emissions below the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit, then the owner or operator may generate a credit for the difference between the level that qualified the unit as a Clean Unit and the emissions unit's new emissions limit if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, and permanent. For purposes of generating offsets, the reductions must also be federally enforceable. For purposes of determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases, the reductions must also be enforceable as a practical matter. ( 11) Effect of redesignation on a Clean Unit designation. The Clean Unit designation of an emissions unit is not affected by redesignation of the attainment status of the area in which it is located. That is, if a Clean Unit is located in an attainment area and the area is redesignated to nonattainment, its Clean Unit designation is not affected. Similarly, redesignation from nonattainment to attainment does not affect the Clean Unit designation. However, if a Clean Unit's designation expires or is lost pursuant to paragraphs ( x)( 2)( iii) and ( y)( 2)( iii) of this section, it must re­ qualify under the requirements that are currently applicable. ( z) PCP exclusion procedural requirements. PCPs shall be provided according to the provisions in paragraphs ( z)( 1) through ( 6) of this section. ( 1) Before an owner or operator begins actual construction of a PCP, the owner or operator must either submit a notice to the Administrator if the project is listed in paragraphs ( b)( 32)( i) through ( vi) of this section, or if the project is not listed in paragraphs ( b)( 32)( i) through ( vi) of this section, then the owner or operator must submit a permit application and obtain approval to use the PCP exclusion from the Administrator consistent with the requirements in paragraph ( z)( 5) of this section. Regardless of whether the owner or operator submits a notice or a permit application, the project must meet the requirements in paragraph ( z)( 2) of this section, and the notice or permit application must contain the information required in paragraph ( z)( 3) of this section. ( 2) Any project that relies on the PCP exclusion must meet the requirements of paragraphs ( z)( 2)( i) and ( ii) of this section. ( i) Environmentally beneficial analysis. The environmental benefit from the emissions reductions of pollutants regulated under the Act must outweigh the environmental detriment of emissions increases in pollutants regulated under the Act. A statement that a technology from paragraphs ( b)( 32)( i) through ( vi) of this section is being used shall be presumed to satisfy this requirement. ( ii) Air quality analysis. The emissions increases from the project will not cause or contribute to a violation of any national ambient air quality standard or PSD increment, or adversely impact an air quality related value ( such as visibility) that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which information is available to the general public. ( 3) Content of notice or permit application. In the notice or permit application sent to the Administrator, the owner or operator must include, at a minimum, the information listed in paragraphs ( z)( 3)( i) through ( v) of this section. ( i) A description of the project. ( ii) The potential emissions increases and decreases of any pollutant regulated under the Act and the projected emissions increases and decreases using the methodology in paragraph ( a)( 2)( iv) of this section, that will result from the project, and a copy of the environmentally beneficial analysis required by paragraph ( z)( 2)( i) of this section. ( iii) A description of monitoring and recordkeeping, and all other methods, to VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00099 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80284 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations be used on an ongoing basis to demonstrate that the project is environmentally beneficial. Methods should be sufficient to meet the requirements in part 70 and part 71 of this chapter. ( iv) A certification that the project will be designed and operated in a manner that is consistent with proper industry and engineering practices, in a manner that is consistent with the environmentally beneficial analysis and air quality analysis required by paragraphs ( z)( 2)( i) and ( ii) of this section, with information submitted in the notice or permit application, and in such a way as to minimize, within the physical configuration and operational standards usually associated with the emissions control device or strategy, emissions of collateral pollutants. ( v) Demonstration that the PCP will not have an adverse air quality impact ( e. g., modeling, screening level modeling results, or a statement that the collateral emissions increase is included within the parameters used in the most recent modeling exercise) as required by paragraph ( z)( 2)( ii) of this section. An air quality impact analysis is not required for any pollutant that will not experience a significant emissions increase as a result of the project. ( 4) Notice process for listed projects. For projects listed in paragraphs ( b)( 32)( i) through ( vi) of this section, the owner or operator may begin actual construction of the project immediately after notice is sent to the Administrator ( unless otherwise prohibited under requirements of the applicable State Implementation Plan). The owner or operator shall respond to any requests by the Administrator for additional information that the Administrator determines is necessary to evaluate the suitability of the project for the PCP exclusion. ( 5) Permit process for unlisted projects. Before an owner or operator may begin actual construction of a PCP project that is not listed in paragraphs ( b)( 32)( i) through ( vi) of this section, the project must be approved by the Administrator and recorded in a State Implementation Plan­ approved permit or title V permit using procedures that are consistent with § § 51.160 and 51.161 of this chapter. This includes the requirement that the Administrator provide the public with notice of the proposed approval, with access to the environmentally beneficial analysis and the air quality analysis, and provide at least a 30­ day period for the public and the Administrator to submit comments. The Administrator must address all material comments received by the end of the comment period before taking final action on the permit. ( 6) Operational requirements. Upon installation of the PCP, the owner or operator must comply with the requirements of paragraphs ( z)( 6)( i) through ( iv) of this section. ( i) General duty. The owner or operator must operate the PCP in a manner consistent with proper industry and engineering practices, in a manner that is consistent with the environmentally beneficial analysis and air quality analysis required by paragraphs ( z)( 2)( i) and ( ii) of this section, with information submitted in the notice or permit application required by paragraph ( z)( 3) of this section, and in such a way as to minimize, within the physical configuration and operational standards usually associated with the emissions control device or strategy, emissions of collateral pollutants. ( ii) Recordkeeping. The owner or operator must maintain copies on site of the environmentally beneficial analysis, the air quality impacts analysis, and monitoring and other emission records to prove that the PCP operated consistent with the general duty requirements in paragraph ( z)( 6)( i) of this section. ( iii) Permit requirements. The owner or operator must comply with any provisions in the State Implementation Plan­ approved permit or title V permit related to use and approval of the PCP exclusion. ( iv) Generation of emission reduction credits. Emission reductions created by a PCP shall not be included in calculating a significant net emissions increase unless the emissions unit further reduces emissions after qualifying for the PCP exclusion ( e. g., taking an operational restriction on the hours of operation). The owner or operator may generate a credit for the difference between the level of reduction which was used to qualify for the PCP exclusion and the new emissions limit if such reductions are surplus, quantifiable, and permanent. For purposes of generating offsets, the reductions must also be federally enforceable. For purposes of determining creditable net emissions increases and decreases, the reductions must also be enforceable as a practical matter. ( aa) Actuals PALs. The provisions in paragraphs ( aa)( 1) through ( 15) of this section govern actuals PALs. ( 1) Applicability. ( i) The Administrator may approve the use of an actuals PAL for any existing major stationary source if the PAL meets the requirements in paragraphs ( aa)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. The term `` PAL'' shall mean `` actuals PAL'' throughout paragraph ( aa) of this section. ( ii) Any physical change in or change in the method of operation of a major stationary source that maintains its total source­ wide emissions below the PAL level, meets the requirements in paragraphs ( aa)( 1) through ( 15) of this section, and complies with the PAL permit: ( a) Is not a major modification for the PAL pollutant; ( b) Does not have to be approved through the PSD program; and ( c) Is not subject to the provisions in paragraph ( r)( 4) of this section ( restrictions on relaxing enforceable emission limitations that the major stationary source used to avoid applicability of the major NSR program). ( iii) Except as provided under paragraph ( aa)( 1)( ii)( c) of this section, a major stationary source shall continue to comply with all applicable Federal or State requirements, emission limitations, and work practice requirements that were established prior to the effective date of the PAL. ( 2) Definitions. For the purposes of this section, the definitions in paragraphs ( aa)( 2)( i) through ( xi) of this section apply. When a term is not defined in these paragraphs, it shall have the meaning given in paragraph ( b) of this section or in the Act. ( i) Actuals PAL for a major stationary source means a PAL based on the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 48) of this section) of all emissions units ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 7) of this section) at the source, that emit or have the potential to emit the PAL pollutant. ( ii) Allowable emissions means `` allowable emissions'' as defined in paragraph ( b)( 16) of this section, except as this definition is modified according to paragraphs ( aa)( 2)( ii)( a) and ( b) of this section. ( a) The allowable emissions for any emissions unit shall be calculated considering any emission limitations that are enforceable as a practical matter on the emissions unit's potential to emit. ( b) An emissions unit's potential to emit shall be determined using the definition in paragraph ( b)( 4) of this section, except that the words `` or enforceable as a practical matter'' should be added after `` federally enforceable.'' ( iii) Small emissions unit means an emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit the PAL pollutant in an amount less than the significant level for that PAL pollutant, as defined in VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00100 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80285 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section or in the Act, whichever is lower. ( iv) Major emissions unit means: ( a) Any emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit 100 tons per year or more of the PAL pollutant in an attainment area; or ( b) Any emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit the PAL pollutant in an amount that is equal to or greater than the major source threshold for the PAL pollutant as defined by the Act for nonattainment areas. For example, in accordance with the definition of major stationary source in section 182( c) of the Act, an emissions unit would be a major emissions unit for VOC if the emissions unit is located in a serious ozone nonattainment area and it emits or has the potential to emit 50 or more tons of VOC per year. ( v) Plantwide applicability limitation ( PAL) means an emission limitation expressed in tons per year, for a pollutant at a major stationary source, that is enforceable as a practical matter and established source­ wide in accordance with paragraphs ( aa)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. ( vi) PAL effective date generally means the date of issuance of the PAL permit. However, the PAL effective date for an increased PAL is the date any emissions unit that is part of the PAL major modification becomes operational and begins to emit the PAL pollutant. ( vii) PAL effective period means the period beginning with the PAL effective date and ending 10 years later. ( viii) PAL major modification means, notwithstanding paragraphs ( b)( 2) and ( b)( 3) of this section ( the definitions for major modification and net emissions increase), any physical change in or change in the method of operation of the PAL source that causes it to emit the PAL pollutant at a level equal to or greater than the PAL. ( ix) PAL permit means the major NSR permit, the minor NSR permit, or the State operating permit under a program that is approved into the State Implementation Plan, or the title V permit issued by the Administrator that establishes a PAL for a major stationary source. ( x) PAL pollutant means the pollutant for which a PAL is established at a major stationary source. ( xi) Significant emissions unit means an emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit a PAL pollutant in an amount that is equal to or greater than the significant level ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section or in the Act, whichever is lower) for that PAL pollutant, but less than the amount that would qualify the unit as a major emissions unit as defined in paragraph ( aa)( 2)( iv) of this section. ( 3) Permit application requirements. As part of a permit application requesting a PAL, the owner or operator of a major stationary source shall submit the following information to the Administrator for approval: ( i) A list of all emissions units at the source designated as small, significant or major based on their potential to emit. In addition, the owner or operator of the source shall indicate which, if any, Federal or State applicable requirements, emission limitations, or work practices apply to each unit. ( ii) Calculations of the baseline actual emissions ( with supporting documentation). Baseline actual emissions are to include emissions associated not only with operation of the unit, but also emissions associated with startup, shutdown, and malfunction. ( iii) The calculation procedures that the major stationary source owner or operator proposes to use to convert the monitoring system data to monthly emissions and annual emissions based on a 12­ month rolling total for each month as required by paragraph ( aa)( 13)( i) of this section. ( 4) General requirements for establishing PALs. ( i) The Administrator is allowed to establish a PAL at a major stationary source, provided that at a minimum, the requirements in paragraphs ( aa)( 4)( i)( a) through ( g) of this section are met. ( a) The PAL shall impose an annual emission limitation in tons per year, that is enforceable as a practical matter, for the entire major stationary source. For each month during the PAL effective period after the first 12 months of establishing a PAL, the major stationary source owner or operator shall show that the sum of the monthly emissions from each emissions unit under the PAL for the previous 12 consecutive months is less than the PAL ( a 12­ month average, rolled monthly). For each month during the first 11 months from the PAL effective date, the major stationary source owner or operator shall show that the sum of the preceding monthly emissions from the PAL effective date for each emissions unit under the PAL is less than the PAL. ( b) The PAL shall be established in a PAL permit that meets the public participation requirements in paragraph ( aa)( 5) of this section. ( c) The PAL permit shall contain all the requirements of paragraph ( aa)( 7) of this section. ( d) The PAL shall include fugitive emissions, to the extent quantifiable, from all emissions units that emit or have the potential to emit the PAL pollutant at the major stationary source. ( e) Each PAL shall regulate emissions of only one pollutant. ( f) Each PAL shall have a PAL effective period of 10 years. ( g) The owner or operator of the major stationary source with a PAL shall comply with the monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements provided in paragraphs ( aa)( 12) through ( 14) of this section for each emissions unit under the PAL through the PAL effective period. ( ii) At no time ( during or after the PAL effective period) are emissions reductions of a PAL pollutant that occur during the PAL effective period creditable as decreases for purposes of offsets under § 51.165( a)( 3)( ii) of this chapter unless the level of the PAL is reduced by the amount of such emissions reductions and such reductions would be creditable in the absence of the PAL. ( 5) Public participation requirements for PALs. PALs for existing major stationary sources shall be established, renewed, or increased through a procedure that is consistent with § § 51.160 and 51.161 of this chapter. This includes the requirement that the Administrator provide the public with notice of the proposed approval of a PAL permit and at least a 30­ day period for submittal of public comment. The Administrator must address all material comments before taking final action on the permit. ( 6) Setting the 10­ year actuals PAL level. The actuals PAL level for a major stationary source shall be established as the sum of the baseline actual emissions ( as defined in paragraph ( b)( 48) of this section) of the PAL pollutant for each emissions unit at the source; plus an amount equal to the applicable significant level for the PAL pollutant under paragraph ( b)( 23) of this section or under the Act, whichever is lower. When establishing the actuals PAL level, for a PAL pollutant, only one consecutive 24­ month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for all existing emissions units. However, a different consecutive 24­ month period may be used for each different PAL pollutant. Emissions associated with units that were permanently shutdown after this 24­ month period must be subtracted from the PAL level. Emissions from units on which actual construction began after the 24­ month period must be added to the PAL level in an amount equal to the potential to emit of the units. The Administrator shall specify a reduced PAL level( s) ( in tons/ yr) in the PAL permit to become effective on the future VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00101 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80286 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations compliance date( s) of any applicable Federal or State regulatory requirement( s) that the Administrator is aware of prior to issuance of the PAL permit. For instance, if the source owner or operator will be required to reduce emissions from industrial boilers in half from baseline emissions of 60 ppm NOX to a new rule limit of 30 ppm, then the permit shall contain a future effective PAL level that is equal to the current PAL level reduced by half of the original baseline emissions of such unit( s). ( 7) Contents of the PAL permit. The PAL permit must contain, at a minimum, the information in paragraphs ( aa)( 7)( i) through ( x) of this section. ( i) The PAL pollutant and the applicable source­ wide emission limitation in tons per year. ( ii) The PAL permit effective date and the expiration date of the PAL ( PAL effective period). ( iii) Specification in the PAL permit that if a major stationary source owner or operator applies to renew a PAL in accordance with paragraph ( aa)( 10) of this section before the end of the PAL effective period, then the PAL shall not expire at the end of the PAL effective period. It shall remain in effect until a revised PAL permit is issued by a reviewing authority. ( iv) A requirement that emission calculations for compliance purposes must include emissions from startups, shutdowns, and malfunctions. ( v) A requirement that, once the PAL expires, the major stationary source is subject to the requirements of paragraph ( aa)( 9) of this section. ( vi) The calculation procedures that the major stationary source owner or operator shall use to convert the monitoring system data to monthly emissions and annual emissions based on a 12­ month rolling total as required by paragraph ( aa)( 13)( i) of this section. ( vii) A requirement that the major stationary source owner or operator monitor all emissions units in accordance with the provisions under paragraph ( aa)( 12) of this section. ( viii) A requirement to retain the records required under paragraph ( aa)( 13) of this section on site. Such records may be retained in an electronic format. ( ix) A requirement to submit the reports required under paragraph ( aa)( 14) of this section by the required deadlines. ( x) Any other requirements that the Administrator deems necessary to implement and enforce the PAL. ( 8) PAL effective period and reopening of the PAL permit. The requirements in paragraphs ( aa)( 8)( i) and ( ii) of this section apply to actuals PALs. ( i) PAL effective period. The Administrator shall specify a PAL effective period of 10 years. ( ii) Reopening of the PAL permit. ( a) During the PAL effective period, the Administrator must reopen the PAL permit to: ( 1) Correct typographical/ calculation errors made in setting the PAL or reflect a more accurate determination of emissions used to establish the PAL; ( 2) Reduce the PAL if the owner or operator of the major stationary source creates creditable emissions reductions for use as offsets under § 51.165( a)( 3)( ii) of this chapter; and ( 3) Revise the PAL to reflect an increase in the PAL as provided under paragraph ( aa)( 11) of this section. ( b) The Administrator shall have discretion to reopen the PAL permit for the following: ( 1) Reduce the PAL to reflect newly applicable Federal requirements ( for example, NSPS) with compliance dates after the PAL effective date; ( 2) Reduce the PAL consistent with any other requirement, that is enforceable as a practical matter, and that the State may impose on the major stationary source under the State Implementation Plan; and ( 3) Reduce the PAL if the reviewing authority determines that a reduction is necessary to avoid causing or contributing to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or to an adverse impact on an air quality related value that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which information is available to the general public. ( c) Except for the permit reopening in paragraph ( aa)( 8)( ii)( a)( 1) of this section for the correction of typographical/ calculation errors that do not increase the PAL level, all other reopenings shall be carried out in accordance with the public participation requirements of paragraph ( aa)( 5) of this section. ( 9) Expiration of a PAL. Any PAL that is not renewed in accordance with the procedures in paragraph ( aa)( 10) of this section shall expire at the end of the PAL effective period, and the requirements in paragraphs ( aa)( 9)( i) through ( v) of this section shall apply. ( i) Each emissions unit ( or each group of emissions units) that existed under the PAL shall comply with an allowable emission limitation under a revised permit established according to the procedures in paragraphs ( aa)( 9)( i)( a) and ( b) of this section. ( a) Within the time frame specified for PAL renewals in paragraph ( aa)( 10)( ii) of this section, the major stationary source shall submit a proposed allowable emission limitation for each emissions unit ( or each group of emissions units, if such a distribution is more appropriate as decided by the Administrator) by distributing the PAL allowable emissions for the major stationary source among each of the emissions units that existed under the PAL. If the PAL had not yet been adjusted for an applicable requirement that became effective during the PAL effective period, as required under paragraph ( aa)( 10)( v) of this section, such distribution shall be made as if the PAL had been adjusted. ( b) The Administrator shall decide whether and how the PAL allowable emissions will be distributed and issue a revised permit incorporating allowable limits for each emissions unit, or each group of emissions units, as the Administrator determines is appropriate. ( ii) Each emissions unit( s) shall comply with the allowable emission limitation on a 12­ month rolling basis. The Administrator may approve the use of monitoring systems ( source testing, emission factors, etc.) other than CEMS, CERMS, PEMS, or CPMS to demonstrate compliance with the allowable emission limitation. ( iii) Until the Administrator issues the revised permit incorporating allowable limits for each emissions unit, or each group of emissions units, as required under paragraph ( aa)( 9)( i)( b) of this section, the source shall continue to comply with a source­ wide, multi­ unit emissions cap equivalent to the level of the PAL emission limitation. ( iv) Any physical change or change in the method of operation at the major stationary source will be subject to major NSR requirements if such change meets the definition of major modification in paragraph ( b)( 2) of this section. ( v) The major stationary source owner or operator shall continue to comply with any State or Federal applicable requirements ( BACT, RACT, NSPS, etc.) that may have applied either during the PAL effective period or prior to the PAL effective period except for those emission limitations that had been established pursuant to paragraph ( r)( 4) of this section, but were eliminated by the PAL in accordance with the provisions in paragraph ( aa)( 1)( ii)( c) of this section. ( 10) Renewal of a PAL. ( i) The Administrator shall follow the procedures specified in paragraph ( aa)( 5) of this section in approving any request to renew a PAL for a major stationary source, and shall provide both the proposed PAL level and a VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00102 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80287 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations written rationale for the proposed PAL level to the public for review and comment. During such public review, any person may propose a PAL level for the source for consideration by the Administrator. ( ii) Application deadline. A major stationary source owner or operator shall submit a timely application to the Administrator to request renewal of a PAL. A timely application is one that is submitted at least 6 months prior to, but not earlier than 18 months from, the date of permit expiration. This deadline for application submittal is to ensure that the permit will not expire before the permit is renewed. If the owner or operator of a major stationary source submits a complete application to renew the PAL within this time period, then the PAL shall continue to be effective until the revised permit with the renewed PAL is issued. ( iii) Application requirements. The application to renew a PAL permit shall contain the information required in paragraphs ( aa)( 10)( iii)( a) through ( d) of this section. ( a) The information required in paragraphs ( aa)( 3)( i) through ( iii) of this section. ( b) A proposed PAL level. ( c) The sum of the potential to emit of all emissions units under the PAL ( with supporting documentation). ( d) Any other information the owner or operator wishes the Administrator to consider in determining the appropriate level for renewing the PAL. ( iv) PAL adjustment. In determining whether and how to adjust the PAL, the Administrator shall consider the options outlined in paragraphs ( aa)( 10)( iv)( a) and ( b) of this section. However, in no case may any such adjustment fail to comply with paragraph ( aa)( 10)( iv)( c) of this section. ( a) If the emissions level calculated in accordance with paragraph ( aa)( 6) of this section is equal to or greater than 80 percent of the PAL level, the Administrator may renew the PAL at the same level without considering the factors set forth in paragraph ( aa)( 10)( iv)( b) of this section; or ( b) The Administrator may set the PAL at a level that he or she determines to be more representative of the source's baseline actual emissions, or that he or she determines to be more appropriate considering air quality needs, advances in control technology, anticipated economic growth in the area, desire to reward or encourage the source's voluntary emissions reductions, or other factors as specifically identified by the Administrator in his or her written rationale. ( c) Notwithstanding paragraphs ( aa)( 10)( iv)( a) and ( b) of this section: ( 1) If the potential to emit of the major stationary source is less than the PAL, the Administrator shall adjust the PAL to a level no greater than the potential to emit of the source; and ( 2) The Administrator shall not approve a renewed PAL level higher than the current PAL, unless the major stationary source has complied with the provisions of paragraph ( aa)( 11) of this section ( increasing a PAL). ( v) If the compliance date for a State or Federal requirement that applies to the PAL source occurs during the PAL effective period, and if the Administrator has not already adjusted for such requirement, the PAL shall be adjusted at the time of PAL permit renewal or title V permit renewal, whichever occurs first. ( 11) Increasing a PAL during the PAL effective period. ( i) The Administrator may increase a PAL emission limitation only if the major stationary source complies with the provisions in paragraphs ( aa)( 11)( i)( a) through ( d) of this section. ( a) The owner or operator of the major stationary source shall submit a complete application to request an increase in the PAL limit for a PAL major modification. Such application shall identify the emissions unit( s) contributing to the increase in emissions so as to cause the major stationary source's emissions to equal or exceed its PAL. ( b) As part of this application, the major stationary source owner or operator shall demonstrate that the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the small emissions units, plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the significant and major emissions units assuming application of BACT equivalent controls, plus the sum of the allowable emissions of the new or modified emissions unit( s) exceeds the PAL. The level of control that would result from BACT equivalent controls on each significant or major emissions unit shall be determined by conducting a new BACT analysis at the time the application is submitted, unless the emissions unit is currently required to comply with a BACT or LAER requirement that was established within the preceding 10 years. In such a case, the assumed control level for that emissions unit shall be equal to the level of BACT or LAER with which that emissions unit must currently comply. ( c) The owner or operator obtains a major NSR permit for all emissions unit( s) identified in paragraph ( aa)( 11)( i)( a) of this section, regardless of the magnitude of the emissions increase resulting from them ( that is, no significant levels apply). These emissions unit( s) shall comply with any emissions requirements resulting from the major NSR process ( for example, BACT), even though they have also become subject to the PAL or continue to be subject to the PAL. ( d) The PAL permit shall require that the increased PAL level shall be effective on the day any emissions unit that is part of the PAL major modification becomes operational and begins to emit the PAL pollutant. ( ii) The Administrator shall calculate the new PAL as the sum of the allowable emissions for each modified or new emissions unit, plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the significant and major emissions units ( assuming application of BACT equivalent controls as determined in accordance with paragraph ( aa)( 11)( i)( b)), plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the small emissions units. ( iii) The PAL permit shall be revised to reflect the increased PAL level pursuant to the public notice requirements of paragraph ( aa)( 5) of this section. ( 12) Monitoring requirements for PALs. ( i) General requirements. ( a) Each PAL permit must contain enforceable requirements for the monitoring system that accurately determines plantwide emissions of the PAL pollutant in terms of mass per unit of time. Any monitoring system authorized for use in the PAL permit must be based on sound science and meet generally acceptable scientific procedures for data quality and manipulation. Additionally, the information generated by such system must meet minimum legal requirements for admissibility in a judicial proceeding to enforce the PAL permit. ( b) The PAL monitoring system must employ one or more of the four general monitoring approaches meeting the minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs ( aa)( 12)( ii)( a) through ( d) of this section and must be approved by the Administrator. ( c) Notwithstanding paragraph ( aa)( 12)( i)( b) of this section, you may also employ an alternative monitoring approach that meets paragraph ( aa)( 12)( i)( a) of this section if approved by the Administrator. ( d) Failure to use a monitoring system that meets the requirements of this section renders the PAL invalid. ( ii) Minimum performance requirements for approved monitoring approaches. The following are acceptable general monitoring VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00103 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80288 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations approaches when conducted in accordance with the minimum requirements in paragraphs ( aa)( 12)( iii) through ( ix) of this section: ( a) Mass balance calculations for activities using coatings or solvents; ( b) CEMS; ( c) CPMS or PEMS; and ( d) Emission factors. ( iii) Mass balance calculations. An owner or operator using mass balance calculations to monitor PAL pollutant emissions from activities using coating or solvents shall meet the following requirements: ( a) Provide a demonstrated means of validating the published content of the PAL pollutant that is contained in or created by all materials used in or at the emissions unit; ( b) Assume that the emissions unit emits all of the PAL pollutant that is contained in or created by any raw material or fuel used in or at the emissions unit, if it cannot otherwise be accounted for in the process; and ( c) Where the vendor of a material or fuel, which is used in or at the emissions unit, publishes a range of pollutant content from such material, the owner or operator must use the highest value of the range to calculate the PAL pollutant emissions unless the Administrator determines there is sitespecific data or a site­ specific monitoring program to support another content within the range. ( iv) CEMS. An owner or operator using CEMS to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the following requirements: ( a) CEMS must comply with applicable Performance Specifications found in 40 CFR part 60, appendix B; and ( b) CEMS must sample, analyze and record data at least every 15 minutes while the emissions unit is operating. ( v) CPMS or PEMS. An owner or operator using CPMS or PEMS to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the following requirements: ( a) The CPMS or the PEMS must be based on current site­ specific data demonstrating a correlation between the monitored parameter( s) and the PAL pollutant emissions across the range of operation of the emissions unit; and ( b) Each CPMS or PEMS must sample, analyze, and record data at least every 15 minutes, or at another less frequent interval approved by the Administrator, while the emissions unit is operating. ( vi) Emission factors. An owner or operator using emission factors to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the following requirements: ( a) All emission factors shall be adjusted, if appropriate, to account for the degree of uncertainty or limitations in the factors' development; ( b) The emissions unit shall operate within the designated range of use for the emission factor, if applicable; and ( c) If technically practicable, the owner or operator of a significant emissions unit that relies on an emission factor to calculate PAL pollutant emissions shall conduct validation testing to determine a sitespecific emission factor within 6 months of PAL permit issuance, unless the Administrator determines that testing is not required. ( vii) A source owner or operator must record and report maximum potential emissions without considering enforceable emission limitations or operational restrictions for an emissions unit during any period of time that there is no monitoring data, unless another method for determining emissions during such periods is specified in the PAL permit. ( viii) Notwithstanding the requirements in paragraphs ( aa)( 12)( iii) through ( vii) of this section, where an owner or operator of an emissions unit cannot demonstrate a correlation between the monitored parameter( s) and the PAL pollutant emissions rate at all operating points of the emissions unit, the Administrator shall, at the time of permit issuance: ( a) Establish default value( s) for determining compliance with the PAL based on the highest potential emissions reasonably estimated at such operating point( s); or ( b) Determine that operation of the emissions unit during operating conditions when there is no correlation between monitored parameter( s) and the PAL pollutant emissions is a violation of the PAL. ( ix) Re­ validation. All data used to establish the PAL pollutant must be revalidated through performance testing or other scientifically valid means approved by the Administrator. Such testing must occur at least once every 5 years after issuance of the PAL. ( 13) Recordkeeping requirements. ( i) The PAL permit shall require an owner or operator to retain a copy of all records necessary to determine compliance with any requirement of paragraph ( aa) of this section and of the PAL, including a determination of each emissions unit's 12­ month rolling total emissions, for 5 years from the date of such record. ( ii) The PAL permit shall require an owner or operator to retain a copy of the following records for the duration of the PAL effective period plus 5 years: ( a) A copy of the PAL permit application and any applications for revisions to the PAL; and ( b) Each annual certification of compliance pursuant to title V and the data relied on in certifying the compliance. ( 14) Reporting and notification requirements. The owner or operator shall submit semi­ annual monitoring reports and prompt deviation reports to the Administrator in accordance with the applicable title V operating permit program. The reports shall meet the requirements in paragraphs ( aa)( 14)( i) through ( iii) of this section. ( i) Semi­ annual report. The semiannual report shall be submitted to the Administrator within 30 days of the end of each reporting period. This report shall contain the information required in paragraphs ( aa)( 14)( i)( a) through ( g) of this section. ( a) The identification of owner and operator and the permit number. ( b) Total annual emissions ( tons/ year) based on a 12­ month rolling total for each month in the reporting period recorded pursuant to paragraph ( aa)( 13)( i) of this section. ( c) All data relied upon, including, but not limited to, any Quality Assurance or Quality Control data, in calculating the monthly and annual PAL pollutant emissions. ( d) A list of any emissions units modified or added to the major stationary source during the preceding 6­ month period. ( e) The number, duration, and cause of any deviations or monitoring malfunctions ( other than the time associated with zero and span calibration checks), and any corrective action taken. ( f) A notification of a shutdown of any monitoring system, whether the shutdown was permanent or temporary, the reason for the shutdown, the anticipated date that the monitoring system will be fully operational or replaced with another monitoring system, and whether the emissions unit monitored by the monitoring system continued to operate, and the calculation of the emissions of the pollutant or the number determined by method included in the permit, as provided by ( aa)( 12)( vii). ( g) A signed statement by the responsible official ( as defined by the applicable title V operating permit program) certifying the truth, accuracy, and completeness of the information provided in the report. ( ii) Deviation report. The major stationary source owner or operator shall promptly submit reports of any deviations or exceedance of the PAL VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00104 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3 80289 Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 251 / Tuesday, December 31, 2002 / Rules and Regulations requirements, including periods where no monitoring is available. A report submitted pursuant to § 70.6( a)( 3)( iii)( B) of this chapter shall satisfy this reporting requirement. The deviation reports shall be submitted within the time limits prescribed by the applicable program implementing § 70.6( a)( 3)( iii)( B) of this chapter. The reports shall contain the following information: ( a) The identification of owner and operator and the permit number; ( b) The PAL requirement that experienced the deviation or that was exceeded; ( c) Emissions resulting from the deviation or the exceedance; and ( d) A signed statement by the responsible official ( as defined by the applicable title V operating permit program) certifying the truth, accuracy, and completeness of the information provided in the report. ( iii) Re­ validation results. The owner or operator shall submit to the Administrator the results of any revalidation test or method within 3 months after completion of such test or method. ( 15) Transition requirements. ( i) The Administrator may not issue a PAL that does not comply with the requirements in paragraphs ( aa)( 1) through ( 15) of this section after March 3, 2003. ( ii) The Administrator may supersede any PAL that was established prior to March 3, 2003 with a PAL that complies with the requirements of paragraphs ( aa)( 1) through ( 15) of this section. ( bb) If any provision of this section, or the application of such provision to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the remainder of this section, or the application of such provision to persons or circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid, shall not be affected thereby. [ FR Doc. 02 31899 Filed 12 30 02; 8: 45 am] BILLING CODE 6560 50 P VerDate Dec< 13> 2002 09: 09 Dec 30, 2002 Jkt 200001 PO 00000 Frm 00105 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 E:\ FR\ FM\ 31DER3. SGM 31DER3
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.497709
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0004-0291/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0012-0180
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-05-06T04:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.621684
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0012-0180/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0012-0181
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-05-28T04:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.622517
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0012-0181/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0012-0182
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-07-05T04:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.623336
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0012-0182/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0012-0189
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-10-11T04:00:00"
null
Monitoring Inspection Report (40 CFR 194.42) Of The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant March 24­ 25,1999 Page ­1­ Table of Contents 1 .O Executive Summary 2.0 Background 3.0 Scope 4.0 Inspection Team, Observers, and Participants 5.0 Performance of the inspections 5 .1 Monitoring of Geomechanical Parameters 5.2 Monitoring of Hydrological Parameters 5.3 Monitoring of Waste Activity Parameters 5.4 Monitoring of Drilling Related Parameters 5.5 Monitoring of Subsidence Parameters 6.0 Summary of findings, observation, concerns, and recommendations Attachments Attachment A. 1 Inspection Plan Attachment A. 2 Inspection Checklist Attachment B. Opening and Closing Sign Up Sheets Attachment C. Documents Reviewed Attachment D. 1 Geomechanical Documents Reviewed Attachment D. 2 Hydrological Documents Reviewed Attachment D .3 Waste Activity Documents Reviewed Attachment D. 4 Drilling Related Documents Reviewed Attachment D. 5 Subsidence Documents Reviewed Attachment D. 6 Other Documents Reviewed Page ­2­ Page 4 4 5 5 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 1.0 Executive Summary The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducted an inspection of the Department of Energy (DOE) Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) March 24­ 25, 1999, as part of its continuing oversight program. The purpose of this inspection was to verifj that DOE is monitoring the ten parameters listed in the WIPP Compliance Certification Application (CCA), Volume 1, Section 7.0, Table 7­ 7 (See Table 1). The inspection examined implementation of monitoring for geomechanical, hydrological, waste activity, drilling related, and subsidence parameters. The inspectors toured locations where measurements are taken, reviewed parameter databases, and reviewed documents and procedures directing these monitoring activities. The EPA inspectors found that DOE through its contractor, Westinghouse, has effectively implemented the monitoring program at WIPP. As determined in the certification decision, May 13, 1998, the program has adequate documentation/ procedures governing the program. The inspection team also confirmed that DOE'S program requires reporting the results of these various monitoring programs on an annual basis, as committed to in the CCA. 2.0 Background The Compliance Criteria at Section 194.42 require DOE to "conduct an analysis of the effects of disposal system parameters on the containment of waste in the disposal system" (40 CFR 194.42 (a)). The results of this analysis is to be include in the CCA and is to be used to develop pre­ closure and post­ closure monitoring requirements. Volume 1, Section 7.0 of the CCA documents DOE analysis, Table 7­ 7 ofthe CCA (Document COB DOE 194# 1, Attachment D. 6) lists the ten parameters that DOE discovered may impact the disposal system. These parameters are grouped into major categories and listed in Table 1. Geomechanicat Parameters­ Waste Activity Pararneter­ ­Creep closure, ­Waste Activity ­Extent of deformation, ­Initiation of brittle deformation, and ­DispIacernent of defurmatian features. Subsidence Parameter­ ­Subsidence measurements Hydrological Parameters­ Drilling Related Parameters­ ­Culebra groundwater composition and ­Change in Culebrs groundwater flow ­Drifling rate and ­The probability of encountering a direction. Castile brine reservoir. Page ­3­ EPA approved these ten monitoring parameters in the certification rulemaking. Section 194.42( c) requires DOE to have an implemented program before emplacement of waste can begin during the management and storage phase of operation. This inspection was done to veri@ implementation of the monitoring program at WIPP. Chuck Byrum Nick Stone 3.0 Scope Inspection Team Leader EPA Inspector EPA Inspection activities included an examination of monitoring and sampling equipment both on and off site, and in the underground. A review of sampling procedures and measurement techniques was conducted. 4.0 Inspection Team, Observers, and Participants The inspection team consisted of two representatives of the EPA Administrator. Observers from the Environmental Evaluation Group (EEG), Jim Kenney and Bill Bartlett, were also present. Page ­4­ Numerous DOE staff members and contractors participated in the inspection. Ron Richardson Ken Mikus Stew art Jones I Cynthia Zlonar I ES& H WID Waste Ops WID ES& H WID 1 DOEKAO ­1 Linda Jo Dalton I Bob Billett ES& H WID I ES& H I Benny Hooda I ES& H I lReyCarrasc0 1 Geo. Engr. (WID I 1 ES& H I The inspection began on Wednesday, March 24, 1999, with a presentation by DOE CAO and WID about the present status of the WlPP monitoring program. Site personnel discussed the monitoring of waste activity, geotechnical parameters, subsidence monitoring, environmental monitoring such as water levels, and drilling related parameters. The inspection team toured and reviewed various activities to veri@ effective implementation of the plans and procedures presented during the oral presentations. The team reviewed the WIPP Waste Information System (WWIS) used to capture the activity of waste shipped from the various generator sites, The team reviewed the Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance program, and the Ground Control Monitoring program. The inspection team reviewed the ground water monitoring program during the 40 CFR 19 1.03, Subpart A inspection held on March 22­ 23, 1999. 5.0 Performance of the Inspection The EPA inspectors reviewed three hndamental areas to veri@ implementation of the DOE monitoring program during the management and storage phase, 1) written plans and Page ­5­ procedures, 2) quality assurance procedures and records, and 3 ) results of the monitoring program in the form of raw data, intermediate reports, and final annual reports, if appropriate. On February 9­ 1 1, 1999, the EPA QA Team performed an annual inspection of the DOE/ WID quality assurance programs. The DOE/ WID programs were found to be adequately maintained. The inspection checklist in Attachment A. 2 provides details on inspection activities. 5.1 Monitoring of Geomechanical Parameters DOE committed to measure four geomechanical parameters in the CCA; creep closure, extent of deformation, initiation of brittle deformation, and displacement of deformation features. WlPP has four programs that supply information for these four parameters; the geomechanical monitoring program, the geosciences program, the ground control program, and the rock mechanics program. These programs are documented in the "Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan" (WP 7­ 1, Attachment D. l, COB 194. X). The results of the Geotechnical Engineering Program are documented in the Geotechnical Analysis Report for July 1996 ­ June 1997 (Attachment D. 1, COB 194. P). Rey Carrasco, contractor for DOE, in the opening meeting discussed how the four geomechanical parameters are measured and discussed the instrumentation used to measure the response of shafts and underground openings (Attachment D. 1, COB 194C). The inspection team toured and reviewed underground instrumentation, the computer data base, and field data sheets used to record raw measurement data (Attachment D. 1, COB 194L. 1 to L. 6). Mr. Carrasco showed the inspection team the input of data into the computer database and examined the output checkprint (Attachment D. 1, COB 194M) to veri@ implementation of the measurement plan. 5.2 Monitoring of Hydrological Parameters DOE committed to measure two hydrological parameters in the CCA; Culebra groundwater composition and changes in the Culebra groundwater flow direction. These parameters and related parameters are measured and documented in the WIPP environmental monitoring program. These programs are documented in the Groundwater Surveillance Program Pan (WP 02­ 1, Attachment D. 2, COB 194. W). The results of this program are documented in the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Site Environmental Report ­ Calendar Year 1997 (Attachment D. 2, COB 194. T). In the opening meeting Stewart Jones, contractor for DOE, discussed the program used to measure and document the hydrological parameters. Mr. Jones discussed the measurement methods used to measure groundwater composition and used to measure values used to derive the direction of groundwater Bow (Attachment D. 2, COB 194W). . Page ­6­ The inspection team reviewed water level measurements for the month of March (Attachment D. 2, COB 1944.1 to 43). The team reviewed the raw data sheets recorded in the field and the quality assurance cross­ check, CHECKPRINT, procedures (Attachment D. 2, COB 194R). The inspection team also toured the WQSP­ 2 groundwater sampling well and the mobile chemistry laboratory. Mi. Jones and other contractor staff presented a detailed explanation of groundwater composition measurement procedures, such as dissolved minerals, and quality assurance requirements. 5.3 Monitoring of Waste Activity Parameters DOE committed to measure waste activity in the CCA. This parameter is part of the extensive database collected for each container shipped to WIPP and is stored in the W P Waste Information System (WWIS). The WWIS is a software system that screens waste container data and provides reports on the TRU waste sent to WIPP. The requirements for the WWIS are discussed in "WIPP Waste Information System Program" (WP 05­ WA. 02, Attachment D. 3, COB 1 9 4 9 . The facility demonstrated that the WWIS can receive data and that the WWIS can generate reports. The CAO has committed to annual waste activity reports. Ken Mikus, contractor for DOE, discussed how the WWIS is used to record waste activity information provided by the generator sites and how the computer database that is created is used to produce the necessary­ reports. The inspection team toured the WWIS computer system where Mr. Mikus demonstrated the transmission of data from the Los Alamos Laboratory generator site and how this information is used to develop different waste activity reports (Attachment D. 3, COB 194G. 5.4 Monitoring of Drilling Related Parameters DOE committed to measure two drilling related parameters in the CCA; the drilling rate and the probability of encountering a Castile brine reservoir. These parameters are measured as part of the "Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program" (WP 02­ PC. 02, Attachment D. 4, COB 194.1). This surveillance program measures or records many parameters related to drilling activities around the WIPP site. The results of the surveillance program is documented annually in the Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program ­ Annual Report for October 1997 through September 1998 (Attachment D. 4, COB 194. K). During the opening meeting David Hughes, contractor for DOE, discussed the program used to measure the drilling rate and used to derive the probability of encountering a Castile brine reservoir. He discussed the information sources, such as Dwight's Petroleum commercial information and the state of New Mexico Oil Conservation Division. Mr. Hughes explained the Page ­7­ data collected and placed in the well information database and the quality assurance requirements (Attachment D. 4, COB 194F). Mr. Hughes provided the inspection team a hands­ on demonstration of the computer database system and showed examples of maps produced and reports generated from the system (Attachment D. 4, COB 194J). 5.5 Monitoring of Subsidence Parameters DOE committed to measure the subsidence at the WIPP site in the CCA. This parameter is documented as part of the of the "WIF'P Underground and Surface Surveying Program" (WP09­ ES. 01, Attachment D. 5, COB 194. U). The DOE will perform the subsidence survey at the site annually during pre­ closure operations. The results of this program are to be reported annually in the WIPP Subsidence Monument Leveling Survey ­ 1998 (Attachment D. 5, COB 194.0). During the opening meeting Rey Carrasco, contractor for DOE, discussed the subsidence parameter measurements program (Attachment D. 5, COB 194D). Mr. Carrasco explained how horizontal and vertical surveys would be performed and the quality assurance requirements for these surveys. Mr Carrasco and his staff demonstrated to the inspection team the survey equipment used, the methods used to record and check field data, how these data are input into the computer database and are used to produce the needed reports. 6.0 Summary of finding, observation, concerns, and recommendations. EPA performed this inspection to verify that DOE/ WLD has implemented a program at the WIPP site to monitor the ten parameters it found to be important in the CCA. During this inspection the inspectors found that DOE has adequately implemented programs to monitoring these ten parameters during pre­ closure operations. DOEiWID also plans to report the results of these monitoring activities as committed to in the CCA documentation. Page ­8­ Attachment A. 1 40 CFR 194.42 Inspection Plan Purpose: Veri@ that the Department of Energy (DOE) can demonstrate that the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) is monitoring the parameter commitments made in the documentation to support the EPA's certification decision, in particular CCA, Volume 1, Section 7.0 and Appendix MON. This inspection is conducted under the authority of 40 CFR 5 194.2 1. This inspection is part of EPA's continued oversight to ensure that WIPP can, in fact, monitor the performance of significant parameters of the disposal system. Scope: Inspection activities will include an examination of monitoring and sampling equipment both on and off site, and in the underground. A review of sampling procedures and measurement techniques may be conducted. Quality assurance procedures and documentation for each of these activities may also be reviewed. Startup Issues: The specific purpose of this inspection is to veri@ and confirm that WIPP has complied with the requirements of 40 CFR 194.42. As stated in 40 CFR 194.42( c) ­ I­. , .in no case shall waste be emplaced in the disposal system prior to the implementation of pre­ closure monitoring." Therefore, the EPA believes it is appropriate to veri@ the adequate implementation of pre­ closure monitoring before the first receipt of waste at WIPP. Location: This inspection will be held at the WIPP facility location twenty­ six miles south east of Carlsbad, New Mexico and the surrounding vicinity as needed. Duration: The EPA expects to complete its inspection, with DOE'S cooperation, in one day. The day will begin with an opening meeting at 8: OO a. m. and end at 5: OO p. m. with a closeout session. Date: Expected to be held during the week of March 22, 1999. Attachment A. 2 40 CFR 194.42 Inspection Check List 40 CFR 194.42 ­ DOE WIPP Monitoring Commitments Checklist L ­_ ~ Pre­ closure Monitoring Commitments Question Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented plans/ programs/ procedures to measure ­ a) Creep Closure; b) Extent of Deformation; c) Initiation of Brittle Deformation and d) Displacement of Deformation Features during the pre­ closure phase of operations as specified in the CCA part of the geomechanical monitoring system? (CCA? Volume 1, Table 7­ 7; App MON, Table MON­ 1) 40 CFR 194.42 (c) and (e) ~ Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented an effective quality assurance program for item 1 above? 40 CFR 194.22 Does DOE demonstrate that the results of the geotechnical investigations are reported annually? (CCA, App. MON, Page MON­ 10) ~~ ~~ Comment (Objective Evidence) Item #28, below, documents the program planned to measure, document, report, and QA these four activities. Section 3.0, item #28 documents the Geomechanical Monitoring Program and records the activities associated with this program, the methods planned to be used, and the reporting plans. Section 4.0, item #28 documents the quality assurance requirements of these actrvities. Items #16 and #17 are examples of raw data collection and vedication. Items #18 and #19 are examples of results of these monitoring activities. The inspection team toured and reviewed the computer system and database systems used to collect and process these data. EPA performed a quality assurance inspection February 9­ 1 1, 1999, and found the program at DOE/ WID adequate. __~~ ~~ Item #28, page 8 requires that analysis will be performed annually and the results will be published in the geotechnical analysis report. ­ Result Sat. Sat. ­ Sat. ­ Documents Reviewed: #7 ­ WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Monitoring ­ Presentation by Rey Carrasco #28 ­ WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan ­ W 07­ 0 1, Revision 2 #16 ­ Sample ­ raw data ­ GIS Field Data Sheets, Room Closure Measurements #17 ­ Sample ­ raw data ­ CVPT Field Data Checkprint # 18 ­ Long­ Term Ground Control Plan for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant #19 ­ Geotechnical Analysis Report for July 1996 ­ June 1997 40 CFR 194.42 ­ DOE WIPP Monitoring Commitments Checklist # ­ .......... .......... .................... ......... .......... .......... .......... ......... ......... .......... .......... .................... ............ ............ .... ...... .......... 1 2 ­ 3 ­ Pre­ closure Monitoring Commitments Question Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented planslprogramsiprocedures to measure ­ a) Culebra Groundwater Composition; b) Change in Culebra Groundwater Flow Direction during the pre­ closure phase of operations as specified in the CCA part of WIF'P's groundwater monitoring plan? (CCA, Volume 1; Table 7­ 7; App MON, Table MON­ 1) 40 CFR 194.42 (c) and (e) Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented an effective quality assurance program for item 1 above? (CCA, App MON, Page MON­ 22) 40 CFR 194.22 Does DOE demonstrate that the results of the groundwater monitoring program are reported annually­ '? (CCA. App. MON, Page MON­ 22) Comment (Objective Evidence) Item #27, below, documents the program planned to measure, document, report, and QA these two activities. Item #27 documents the Groundwater Surveillance Program Plan and records the activities associated with this program, the methods planned to be used, and the reporting plans. Section 4.0, item #27 documents the quality assurance requirements of these activities. Item #22 is an example of actual water level measurements. Item #21 is an computer print out of these measurements and item #23 is a checkprint of these same measurements with a signature verifying QA review. Item #23 is an example of results of these monitoring activities. The inspection team toured and review.: +he WQSP­ 2 borehole location to evaluate water measurement techniques. The team also evaluated the chemical analysis performed in the mobile laboratory. ~~ ~ ~ EPA performed a quality assurance inspection February 9­ 1 1, 1999, and found the program at DOE/ WD adequate. Item #27, page 28 documents that results of monitoring will be reported annually and will be published in the Annual Site Environmental Report (ASER). Result Sat. Sat. Sat. Documents Reviewed: #9 ­ Environmental Monitoring 40 CFR 194 ­ Presentation by Stewart Jones #27 ­ Groundwater Surveillance Program Plan ­ WP 02­ 1, Revision 3 #21 ­ Computer printouts of water level measurements measured during the month of March 1999 #22 ­ Actual field copies of raw data of water levels measured in March 1999 #23 ­ Samples of signed quality assurance check prints of water level measurements during the month of March #21 ­ Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Site Environmental Report ­ Calendar Year 1997 1999 40 CFR 194.42 ­ DOE WIPP Monitoring Commitments Checklist # ................. ................... ............ .................... .................... .................... ............ ....... .~,.:.:.:.:. y,.:.: ­ .......... ....... 1 2 ­ 3 ­ Pre­ closure Monitaring €ornmitments Question Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented plans/ programs/ procedures to measure ­ a> Waste Activity? (CCA, Volume 1, Table 7­ 7; App MON, Table MON­ 1) 40 CFR 194.42 (c) and (e) Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented an effective quality assurance program for item I? (CCA, App WAP, page C­ 30) 40 CFR 194.22 ~~ Does DOE demonstrate that the results of the waste activity parameters are reported annually'? (CCA Volume. Section 7.2.4 Reporting) Comment (Objective Evidence) WWIS will be used to measure and store waste activity among other things. Item #26, below, documents the program planned to measure, document, report, and QA this activity. Item #26 documents the WWIS Program and records the activities associated with this program, the methods planned to be used, and the reporting plans. Item #I 1 is an example of the Waste Container Report for LANL waste shipped on March 25, 1999 and item #I2 is an example of the Nuclide Report for test waste data. The inspection team toured and reviewed the WWIS computer system and the database computer program. The team reviewed the query capabilities of the system to produce waste activity reports. ~~~ EPA performed a quality assurance inspection February 9­ 1 1. 1999, and found the program at DOE/ WID adequate. Item #26, page 19 documents that results of monitoring will be reported annually. Documents Reviewed: #6 ­ WIPP Waste Information System (WWIS) ­ Presentation by Ken Mikus #26 ­ WIPP Waste Information System Program ­ WP 05­ WA. 02, Revision 0 #I 1 ­ Sample 'Waste Container Data Report' from the WWIS #I2 ­ Samole 'Nuclide Report' from the WWIS Result Sat. Sat. Sat. ­ 40 CFR 194.42 ­ DOE WWP Monitoring Commitments Checklist ­ # I 2 ­ 3 Pre­ closure and Post Closure Monitoring Commifments Question Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented plans/ programs/ procedures to measure ­ a) Drilling Rate; and b) Probability of Encountering a Castile Brine Reservoir? (CCA, Volume 1, Table 7­ 7; App MON, Table MON­ 1) 40 CFR 194.42 (c) and (e) Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented an effective quality assurance program for item 1 above'? (CCA, App DMP, page DMP­ 9) 40 CFR 194.22 ­~~ __~~ ~ ~~ Does DOE demonstrate that the results of the drilling related parameters are reported annually? (CCA Volume, Section 7.2.4 Reporting; App DMF, page DMP­ 9) ~~ ~ Comment (Objective Evidence) ltem #13, below, documents the program planned to measure, document, report, and QA these two activities. Item # 13 documents the Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan and records the activities associated with this program, the methods planned to be used, and the reporting plans. Section 6.0, item #13 documents the quality assurance requirements of these activities. Item # 14 is an example of the information recorded and stored in the drilled hole database. Item # 15 is a copy of the annual report; page 15 shows the 1998 calculation of the dnlling rate and page shows a discussion of Castile brine pockets. The inspection team toured and reviewed the computer and database system used to record and store drill hole data. The team reviewed the report and mapping capabilities of the computer system.. EPA performed a quality assurance inspection February 9­ 1 1, 1999, and found the program at DOE/ WID adequate. Item #13. page 5 documents that results of monitoring will be reported annually. ­ Documents Reviewed: #10 ­ Delaware Basin Surveillance Plan ­ Presented by David Hughes #13 ­ Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan ­ WF' 02­ PC. 02, Revision 0 #14 ­ Sample print out from the drilling surveillance computer database #15 ­ Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program ­ Annual Report for October 1997 through September 1998 Result Sat. Sat. Sat. ­ 40 CFR 194.42 ­ DOE WIPP Monitoring Commitments Checklist # ­ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. ......... .::. v . . . . . . . . 1 2 3 ­ Pre­ closure and Poet CIosure Monitoring Commitments Question Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented plans/ programs/ procedures to measure ­ a) Subsidence measurements? (CCA, Volume 1, Table 7­ 7; App MON, Table MON­ I) 40 CFR 194.42 (c) and (e) Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented an effective quality assurance program for item I? 40 CFR 194.22 Does DOE demonstrate that the results of the subsidence measurements are reported annuallv? (CCA Volume, Section 7.2.4 Reporting) ~ ~~~ Comment (Objective Evidence) Item #25, below, documents the program planned to measure, document, report, and QA these two activities. Item #25 documents the WIPP Underground & Surface Surveying Program and records the activities associated with this program, the methods planned to be used, and the reporting plans. Section 4.0, item #25 documents the quality assurance requirements of these activities. Item #20 is a copy of the annual report for 1998. The inspection team toured and reviewed the computer and database system used to record and store subsidence survey data. The team reviewed the report and mapping capabilities of the computer system.. EPA performed a quality assurance inspection February 9­ 1 1, 1999, and found the program at DOE/ WID adequate. Item #25, page 11 documents that results of monitoring will be reported annually Documents Reviewed: #8 ­ WIPP Subsidence Monitoring ­ Presented by Rey Carrasco #25 ­ WIPP Underground and Surface Surveying Program ­ WP 09­ ES. O1, Revisi'on 1 #20 ­ WIPP Subsidence Monument Leveling survey ­ 1998 Result Sat. Sat. Sat. I Attachment B Opening and Closing Sign Up Sheets ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY CFR 194.42 OPENING MEETING ATTENDANCE n March 24, 1999 PRINTED NAME _L / t Tw 9` s PHONE NUMBER a 34,893 3/ ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY March 25, 1999 CFR 194.42 CLOSE­ OUT MEETING ATTENDANCE Attachment C Documents Reviewed 4 I I cc) d m I I ­­ I I ? * a * m s vi $ vi ; * s f a I $2 O * a+ 0 cl m ;I" N N * ? * m $ d N m L, 0 j k M N m $ c? n & i? i? b a \o N m $ c? c11 U O S a 4 + 0 9 z 2 M a e P N 01 N Attachment D. 1 Geomechanical Documents Reviewed 1 Effective Date: 0311 619 WP 07­ 01 Revision 2 WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan Cognizant Section: Geotechnical Enaineerina Approved By: S. J. Patchet Cognizant Department: Enaineerina Approved By: J. J. Garcia WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS . I 1 .O INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................... 1 .1 Backaround 1 1.2 Geosciences Pfoclram ..................................................................................... 2 1.3 Geomechanical Monitorina Prosram ........................................................... 2 1.4 Rock Mechanics Proaram ............................................................................. 2 1.5 Ground Control Proaram .............................................................................. 2 2.0 ADMlNlSTRATlON 3 2.1 Oraanization .................................................................................................... 3 2.2 Responsibilities 3 2.3 Trainina and Qualifications .......................................................................... 3 ..................................................................................................... ................................................................................................. ........................................................................................... ­.;. 3.0 TECHNICAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION ............................................................... 3 3 3.1 Geosciences Proqram ..................................................................................... 3 3.1 .I Background ......................................................................................... 4 3.1.2 Purpose ............................................................................................... 3.1.3 Scope 4 3.1.4 Methods 4 3.2 Geomechanical Monitorina Prosram ........................................................... 5 6 3.2.1 Background ........................................................................................ 6 3.2.2 Purpose' .............................................................................................. 6 3.2.3 Scope .................................................................................................. 3.2.4 Methods 7 3.3 Rock Mechanics Proclrarn ........................................................................... 10 3.3.1 Background 10 3.3.2 Purpose 10 3.3.3 Scope 10 3.3.4 Methods 11 Ground Control Prosram ............................................................................ 12 13 3.4.1 Background ...................................................................................... 3.4.2 Purpose 13 3.4.3 Scope 14 3.4.4 Methods 14 .................................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .......................................................................................... .... ...................................................................................... ............................................................................................ ................................................................................................ ............................................................................................. 3.4 ............................................................................................ ................................................................................................ ............................................................................................. 4.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE 15 ........................................................................................ 4.1 Desian Control 15 15 4.2 Procurement ................................................................................................ 15 4.3 Instructions, Procedures and Drawinas ......................................................... 4.4 Document Control 16 ................ 16 4.5 Control of Purchased Material, Equbment. and Services : ............ 4.6 Identification and Control of Items 16 4.7 Test Control 16 ............................................................................................. ....................................................................................... ............................................................ ................................................................................................. WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 4.8 Software Reauirements .............................................................................. 17 4.9 Control of Monitoring and Data Collection Equipment .................................. 18 4.1 0 4.1 1 Control­ of Nonconformina Conditiondltems . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . _.. . ._. . .... . 18 4.12 Corrective Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . '. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . ... . . . . ... . .. 18 4.1 3 4.14 4.15 Handha. Storaae. and Shirminq . .... .... ... .... .. ... ..... .. ...... .......... ..... .. 18 Records Manaaement . . . .. . . . . . . .. .. . .. . .. . . . . . . ... . ... . . . . ... . . . . . ... ._ .... . ... ... ....... 19 Audits and Independent Assessments ....... .... ... ........ . ... .._.... ............. 19 Data Reduction and Verification .. . .. . .. .. . . . . .. . . .... .. ... . . . . . ............ ...... . . 19 19 5.0 REFERENCES ...............................................................,.............~......­.......­......­.. ii WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 I .O INTRODUCTION This document defines the field programs and investigations to be carried out by tbe Waste Isolation Division (WID) Geotechnical Engineering Section. The geotechnical engineering programs are designed to provide scientific information necessary to establish a high level of understanding of site characteristics and to assess the stability and performance of the underground facility. Programs currently consist of the following activities: Geosciences Geomechanical Monitoring Ground Control Rock Mechanics These programs will be implemented and controlled by this program plan. 1.1 Backaround The programs listed in Section 2 will demonstrate the safe disposal of transuranic waste, both in the short­ term (during the operational life of the facility) and in the long­ term (following decommissioning), that will satisfy the appropriate federal regulations governing isolation of the waste. The data will increase confidence ,in the effectiveness and safety of the underground operations, validate the design, support site characterization and performance assessment activities, and support activities required for research and technological development. Drivers for these programs include the Consultation and Cooperation Agreement with the state of New Mexico, which stipulates continuing studies of the site geology; t h e Environmental Protection Agency's standards for management of transuranic waste; the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act; and the Mine Safety and Health Administration. These programs implement the applicable portions of systems AUOO and EM00 System Design Description (SOD). The programs will also ensure that the facility operates safely and that data are available to make decisions for managing and performing engineering and operational activities. Field activities will be organized into four programs that cover: Geosciences Rock mechanics evaluation Ground control assessments Data collection from geomechanical instrumentation Each field program will be controlled by a program plan describing the general scope of the investigation, its methods, and quality assurance requirements. ... Ill WiPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 I .2 Geosciences Proaram The Geosciences Program will continue confirmation of site suitability based on field activities such as geologic mapping of the facility horizon excavations and logging of cores. These activities will be used to characterize, demonstrate the continuity of, and document the geology exposed in the underground excavations. The program also will maintain a storage facility for site­ generated geologic samples and a local seismic monitoring system. 1.3 Geomechanical Monitorina Proaram The Geomechanical Monitoring Program will provide data on the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) geotechnical berformance design for design validation and the short­ term and long­ term behavior of underground openings, and routine evaluations of the safety and stability of excavations. Data on the stability and closure of underground excavations will be used to identify areas of potential instability and allow remedial actions to be taken. Monitoring of geotechnical parameters will be performed using geomechanical instruments, including tape extensometer stations, convergence meters, borehole extensometers, piezometers, strain gauges, load cells, crack meters, and other instruments installed in the shafts and drifts of the WIPP facility. 1.4Rock Mechanics Procrram The Rock Mechanics Program will assess of the performance of the underground facility. Data from geomechanical monitoring and geosciences observations will be used to evaluate the current and future performance of the excavations. Numerical modeling and empirical methods will be used to evaluate the effects of proposed design changes and the long­ term behavior of the underground facility. 1.5Ground Control Proararn The Ground Control Program will ensure that the underground is safe from any unexpected roof or rib falls. It will provide the experience necessary to design ground control systems for the host rock, to monitor ground control system performance through data and observations, and to allow projections to be made regarding future ground support requirements. 2 WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 2.0ADMINISTRATION 2.1 Oraanization The WID organizational structure is described in the WID Quality Assurance Program Description (WP 13­ 1 ). Geotechnical Engineering reports to the Engineering Department senior manager. 2.2 Remonsibilities The Geotechnical Engineering manager and staff are responsible for achieving and maintaining quality in the geotechnical engineering programs. 2.3Trainina and Qualifications Personnel who perform specific tasks associated with geological and geotechnical data collection, engineering assessments, and quality assurance/ quality control measures will be trained and qualified in the application of the specific requirements to complete their tasks. The minimum training requirements for engineering personnel are identified in the Engineering Technical Training Requirements Policy. 3.0TECHNlCAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION 3.1 Geosciences Proqram The Geosciences Program contains activities that continue confirmation of site suitability through surface and underground field investigations. These activities wiil generate data used in monitoring the repository and in rock mechanics studies. Information from the Geosciences Program will be used to document the existing geologic conditions and characteristics and to monitor for changes resulting from the excavations. Activities associated with this program will include geologic and fracture mapping, maintenance of a facility for the storage of geologic samples (the Core Library), seismic monitoring and evaluation, and other activities performed as needed. The program will describe the general scope of investigations, the methods, and program requirements. The plan will be updated periodically to reflect additions and changes to the program. 3.1.1 Background The Los Medanos area has been studied since 1974 to assess site capability for isolation of radioactive waste. The present WIPP site was selected in 1976 and has been under continuous investigation since that time as a site for containment and isolation of transuranic radioactive waste. Because geology is the principal factor in the isolation of the waste from the accessible environment, the Geosciences Program provided important data for site characterization and was integral to the decision an the 3 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 design of the facility. Extensive geologic characterization of drifts and shafts was performed under the Site and Preliminary Design Validation Program for confirmation of site suitability. The program provided the basis for the decision to proceed with construction of the WIPP facility. The Geotechnical Engineering Geosciences Program was developed to continue confirmation of site suitability based on field activities such as geologic mapping of the facility and near surface stratigraphic horizons, core logging, and geophysical surveys. These activities characterize, demonstrate the continuity of, and document the geology at the site. The program maintains a library of site­ generated geologic samples and quarterly reporting of the results of local seismic monitoring. The program is also responsible for the collection of geologic and structural data and other section activities as required. 3.1.2 Purpose The purpose of the Geosciences Program is to confirm the suitability of the site based on continuing field activities. 3.1.3 Scope Site investigations will be performed as required, or as determined useful, for enhancement of the site geologic characterization knowledge base. Activities will include reconnaissance geologic mapping of new excavations, detailed geologic mapping, investigations of regional exposures, and geologic support to projects conducted by other site participants. The activities associated with the Geosciences Program are designed to: Provide additional site geological characterization based on geologic mapping of excavations and core logging Maintain a current data base on mineralogy, chemistry, and textural feature characteristics of the local geology Maintain a current level of knowledge on the geohydrology of the Salado and Rustier Formations based on geologic, hydrologic, and geochemical data Monitor the local seismicity using a series of surface­ based seismographs. As part of this activity, analyses will be performed to determine if any correlation of seismic events with mining or petroleum recovery operations can be estabtished 3.1.4 Methods Routine tasks will be carried out according to approved WlPP procedures. Activities in 4 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 development or those not expected to be performed routinely will be performed in accordance with industry standards or individual program plans that supplement this program plan. Routine Activities Seismic Monitoring ­ Seismic monitoring and evaluation will be carried out by the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, a subcontractor to WID. Geologic Mapping ­ Geologic mapping will be performed in newly excavated areas and when the cognizant engineer or Geotechnical Engineering manager deems it necessary. The mapping results will be documented in the annual geotechnical analysis reports and appropriate topical reports. All drifts and rooms in which geologic mapping was not conducted will be visually inspected by the cognizant engineer, or designee, within three months of excavation to verify that the exposed rock units are laterally continuous and similar to those exposed in the mapped areas of the facility. Any unusual features will be reported in the annual geotechnical analysis reports. Fracture Mapping ­ Fracture mapping will be performed and carried out by the cognizant engineer, designee, or Geotechnical Engineering manager at locations selected in accordance with accepted industry practice. Observations from boreholes and excavated surfaces will be used in performance assessments of the underground faci I ity. Core Library Operations ­ Geotechnical Engineering will maintain a repository for geologic samples that have been determined necessary for long­ term storage. Approved WlPP procedures define the proper methods for maintaining the sample repository, the submittal of core to the Core Library, maintenance of the Core Storage Facility (inventory, handling, and distribution), authorization for access to view the core on­ site, and authorization to remove samples from the library. Other Activities of the Geosciences Proqram Test plans will be developed for geoscience activities that are in a developmental stage or are not routinely performed. They will include or reference the appropriate proce­ dures to ensure that all necessary steps for completion are carried out. The plans will detail specific plans that describe the activity, location, procedure, etc. 3.2Geomechanical Monitorina Proararn The Geomechanical Monitoring Program will monitor the geomechanical response of the underground openings after mining. It will also monitor geotechnical instruments 5 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 installed in the shafts and drifts of the WlPP facility. Geotechnical instrumentation installed in the shafts and underground includes tape extensometer points, convergence meters, borehole extensometers, piezometers, strain gages, load cells, and crack meters. The instrumentation is sensitive enough to detect small changes in rock displacements and rock stresses. Information generated by this program will be documented in annual geotechnical analysis reports. The data will be documented more frequently as recommended by the cognizant engineer or manager. An assessment of convergence measurements and geotechnical observations will be made after each round of measurements. The results of this assessment will be distributed to affected underground. operations, engineering, and safety managers. This plan describes the general scope of the investigation, methods, and program requirements, and will be updated periodically to reflect additions and changes. 3.2.1 Background The instrumentation system has provided data on the performance of the WlPP design for design validation and for projecting the long­ term behavior of the underground openings, and routine evaluation of safety and excavation stability. From an opera­ tional standpoint, the geomechanical data allow the identification of areas of potential instability and for remedial action to be taken. To determine the long­ term behavior of the repository, assessments will rely heavily on the extrapolation of in­ situ data, taken over a period of years, to predict thousands of years of repository performance. The engineering performance of the WIPP host rock is important in the assessment of the design of the operating facility and its long­ term performance. Of significance are the time­ dependent properties of the salt. Sandia National Laboratories has carried out extensive experimental work to establish an appropriate, constitutive relationship for salt that can predict its in­ situ mechanical performance. To validate the adequacy of the facility design, field data from geomechanical instrumentation are used to determine actual mechanical performance of the shafts and excavations at the facility horizon. 3.2.2 Purpose The purpose of the Geomechanical Monitoring Program is to determine the geomech­ anical performance of the underground excavations at WIPP. Data on stability and closure are needed for operational considerations and for performance assessment. 3.2.3 Scope The activities associated with the Geotechnical Monitoring Program are designed to: 6 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 Maintain and augment the geotechnical instrumentation system in the WlPP underground and upgrade the automatic data acquisition system as necessary 0 Monitor geotechnical instrumentation on a regular basis and maintain a current data base of instrument readings Evaluate the geotechnical instrumentation data and prepare regular reports that document the data and analyses describing the stability and performance of underground openings Recommend corrective or preventive measures to ensure excavation stability and safe operation of the facility 3.2.4 Methods The process by which geomechanical monitoring of an area is initiated may vary as part of operational excavation monitoring or research testing. Proper documentation and analysis is common to all. Installation and monitoring of the instruments wifl be governed by approved WlPP procedures. The instrumentation will be monitored remotely using data loggers or read manually. Routine tasks will be carried out according to approved WIPP procedures. Activities which are in development, or which are not expected to be performed routinely, will be performed in accordance with industry standards or individual program plans that supplement this program plan. Data Acquisition The remotely polled instruments are connected to a surface computer through a system of cables, termination boxes, and data loggers. The manually read instruments will be monitored using electronic read­ out boxes and mechanical measuring devices. The data will be collected on a quarterly basis at a minimum, but more frequent readings may be collected as determined by the cognizant engineer or manager. Geomechanical Data Loqqincl Svstem The system consists of surface computers, modems, data loggers, and associated interconnecting cabling. The instrumentation is routed to local termination cabinets or accessor boxes at various locations in the underground. These contain the electronic hardware needed for multiplexing, signal conditioning, data conversion, and communi­ cating with the surface computers, which are connected by a dedicated communica­ tions data link cable. The surface computers communicate through modems using a series of communication and data management software. programs, The data from the instruments will be maintained in individual data bases for each instrument type. Instrumentation 7 WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 The instrumentation used at WIPP is widely accepted in the geotechnical and mining industry. Geomechanical instrumentation installed in the shafts and underground includes tape extensometer points, convergence meters, borehole extensometers, rockbolt load cells, pressure cells, crack meters, strain gauges, and piezometers. The instrumentation is sensitive to small changes in rock displacement and stress. The geomechanical instruments will be installed and monitored in accordance with approved procedures or written instructions. Instrument types, monitoring usage, and typical installation locations are listed in the following table. Data Analvsis and Dissemination of Data The frequency of analyses of geomechanical data will be based on the requirements established in design documents and regulatory requirements, and as determined by the geornechanical instrumentation cognizant engineer. A comprehensive analysis of the data will be performed annually. Results of t h e analyses will be published in geotechnical analysis reports. Data may be released to external sources more 8 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 frequently with consent from the Department of Energy. Assessments of the convergence measurements and other geotechnical observations will be performed after each round of complete measurements. Results will be distributed to affected underground operations, engineering, and safety groups. Data analyses may be performed on a more frequent basis, as recommended by the cognizant engineer or manager. Calibration Measurement and data collection equipment used to read the geotechnical instruments will be calibrated in accordance with approved WlPP procedures. Frequency of calibration will be based on manufacturer recommendations upon receipt of the measuring device at the WIPP site, or as determined by the cognizant engineer. Calibration records will be kept on file in Geotechnical Engineering. Routine Activities Maintenance will be performed as needed. When an instrument is damaged or erroneous readings are suspected, the instrument will be physically inspected and evaluated for repairs or replacement. If repair efforts are unsuccessful, that instrument will be documented as malfunctioning and monitoring discontinued until the instrument has been replaced or abandoned. Inspections of the instrumentation and data logging components will be performed during monitoring activities, These inspections check the physical condition of the instrumentation, junction boxes, and cabling for damage, corrosion, and loose parts. Any unusual observations or deterioration will be documented on the Geotechnical Instrumentation System field data sheets and the cognizant engineer will be notified of existing conditions. The inspection results and performance of the instrumentation and data logging components will be. evaluated by comparing the monitoring results against previous readings. These evaluations will be used to determine whether the geomechanical instrumentation and data acquisition system are performing as anticipated. 9 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan . WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 Other Activities of the Geomechanical Monitorinq Proqram Test plans will be developed for geomechanical monitoring activities that are either in a developmental stage or not routinely performed. These plans will include or reference the appropriate procedures to ensure that all necessary steps to complete the activity are carried out and will detail specific plans that describe instrument characteristics, locations, procedures, etc. These activities may include the installation and monitoring of new instrument types to evaluate their adequacy for use in salt. Changes to the remote monitoring equipment and software routines will be documented in accordance with approved WIPP procedures. 3.3 Rock Mechanics Proaram This program assesses the current and future performance of the underground facility. Its statistical and empirical data methods and numerical modeling codes, modified for use in salt rock, provide the process for analyzing data collected from geotechnical instruments and visual observations. The results follow approved WlPP procedures and will be published in annual geotechnical analysis reports, or more frequently as recommended by the cognizant engineer or manager. This program plan describes the general scope, methods, and program requirements of investigations and will be updated periodically to reflect additions and changes. 3.3.1 Background The Rock Mechanics Program assesses of the performance of the WlPP design for design validation and for projecting the long­ term behavior of the underground openings and routine evaluation of safety and excavation stability. From an operational standpoint, these assessments will allow the identification of areas of potential instability and the application of remedial actions, if necessary. To validate the adequacy of the facility design, field data from geomechanical instrumentation will be used to determine actual mechanical performance of the shafts and excavations at the facility horizon. Analytical methods, such as numerical modeling, will be used to determine the potential effects of mining new excavations, excavation sequence, and long­ term behavior of the repository. The engineering performance of the WlPP host rock is important to assess the design of the operating facility and its long­ term performance. Of significance are the time­ dependent properties of the salt. Extensive experimental work and observa­ tions have been used to establish an appropriate, constitutive relationship for salt that is used to predict its in­ situ mechanical performance. These assessments will rely heavily on the extrapolation of in­ situ instrumentation data and field observations. 3.3.2 Purpose 10 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 The Rock Mechanics Program provides the capability to assess the geomechanical response of the surface and underground facility due to mining of the underground. 3.3.3 Scope The activities associated with the Rock Mechanics Program are designed to: Assess the geotechnical performance of the underground excavations Assess the effectiveness of support systems installed to control areas of potentially unstable ground Assess the appropriateness of the current mine design and periodically evaluate the criteria Provide geotechnical recommendations for the development of mine design criteria based on analytical assessment of the performance of the existing excavations and from modeling of proposed design changes Project excavation performance based on new mining, ground control activities, and facility aging Predict the performance of underground excavations based on instrumentation data and supplemented by analytical studies Maintain a library of numerical modeling codes that include the state­ of­ the­ art understanding of salt rock mechanics Provide recommendations or correctivelpreventive measures to underground operations personnel based on the performance and expected usage of the underground facility 3.3.4 Methods The processes by which rock mechanics activities are completed may vary. Evaluation of the geomechanical performance of the underground openings will use numerical analysis techniques commonly used in the mining and civil engineering industries. The use of these techniques will be governed by WlPP approved procedures for engineering calculations and computer software control. Routine Activities The following are routine activities of the Rock Mechanics Program: 11 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 . Geomechanical Data Assessment ­ Assessments of the instrument data and geologic observations will be performed periodically and reported in the annual geotechnical analysis reports and other more frequent topical reports. Complete data analyses will be performed at least once a year. The frequency of data analyses will be based on the geotechnical performance of the excavations and their operational use. The geotechnical data will be evaluated to determine whether conditions exist which warrant closer or, possibly, immediate attention from a ground control standpoint. Geotechnical assessments measure the stability of the openings with respect to operational safety and long­ term performance. Support System Performance Evaluation ­ New support system technologies will be evaluated as they become available and will be used as they are proven. Several test sections of support systems have been installed and are being monitored. These systems are instrumented to monitor the performance of the system components. This instrumentation, in conjunction with nearby geomechanical instrumentation, allows assessments of the effectiveness of the support system to be performed. Numerical Modeling ­ Material modeling codes estimate of the performance of the salt rock material based on the material properties and loading conditions provided to the model. These models can be used to determine the potential effects of mining new excavations on the facility or the long­ term effect of an excavation on nearby openings. The accuracy of the models can be improved by modifying the code to more accurately represent the actual physical conditions. These modifications may include mesh refinement and the use of input data that more accurately describe the physical properties of the host rock. Other Activities of the Rock Mechanics Proaram Test plans will be developed for rock mechanics activities that are in a developmental stage or are not routinely performed. These plans will include or reference the appro­ priate procedures to ensure that all necessary steps to complete the activity are carried out and will detail specific plans that describe the activity, location, procedure, etc. These activities may include investigations of the geomechanical effect of new mining and mine design changes on the performance of the underground facility and subsidence effects. These investigations may require numerical modeling, materials laboratory testing, and field observations. The results will be used to incorporate the latest understanding of the host rock properties into the modeling codes and analytical techniques. 3.4Ground Control Proqram 12 WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 The Ground Control Program provides comprehensive evaluation of the ground conditions and effectiveness of installed support systems throughout the facility. The evaluations will be based on visual observations, analyses of geomechanical instru­ mentation data, fracture data acquired from observation boreholes, and rockbolt failure data. The design of new support systems will be based on the results of these evaluations. Ground control issues have been addressed since excavation began at WIPP. fnitially only minor spalls were observed. However, as the excavations aged and issues associated with the roof beam began to develop, most of the facility was pattern­ bolted with mechanical anchor rockbolts. Because these bolts provide a basically rigid support system, they have a finite life and supplemental systems are required in areas scheduled for decades of use. The support systems must maintain many areas of the underground accessible for the projected life of the facility. The information generated by this program will be documented in annual assessment reports. Assessment of the performance of the installed ground support systems are performed as recommended by the cognizant engineer or manager. The results of these assessments will be distributed to affected underground operations, engineering, and safety manager sections. This program plan describes the general scope of the ground control activities, methods, and program requirements, and will be updated periodically to reflect additions and changes to the program. 3.4.1 Background The operating life of sections of the underground facility may extend to approximately fifty years from the date of excavation. Over time, the strains associated with stress conditions around the excavation result in degradation of the surrounding rock. Safety concerns associated with deterioration of the roof necessitate monitoring, maintenance, and ground control mechanisms to ensure safe working conditions. Roof support systems are currently in place throughout the facility; however, because of creep closure, they may undergo severe stress, have a limited service life, and require periodic replacement. Many options ar6 currently available for ground control in the mining industry. Technologies used in potash and salt mines are the most applicable to WlPP because of the similar behavior of the rock. A comprehensive testing and evaluation program has been used to determine which ground support components and/ or systems are most applicable to specific project requirements. This program consists of many aspects that include continuous visual inspections of the underground opening, extensive geomechanical monitoring, numerical modeling, analysis of rockbolt failures, implementation of ground control procedures, and comprehensive in­ situ and laboratory testing, and evaluation of ground support components and systems. 13 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 The excavations vary in geometry, geology, age, and operational use. These differences affect the selection of ground control measures, but the ability of the salt to creep or flow with time has the greatest impact on selection of support systems. Salt creep exerts strong forces, both vertical and horizontal, on any control mechanism. During the time that the underground has been active, a variety of ground control issues have been encountered ranging from minor spalling to roof falls. 3.4.2 Purpose The Ground Control Program provides the strategies for development and selection of the most applicable and efficient means of maintaining and monitoring the ground conditions of the WIPP underground to ensure safe and operational conditions. The selection of ground control fixtures is in accordance with 30 CFR u 57, Subpart B, "Ground Control." 3.4.3 Scope The program is continually evolving. Current associated activities include: Addressing ground control concerns and design and implementation of ground support systems on a case­ by­ case basis installing and monitoring of small­ scale and full­ scale in­ situ support systems for evaluation Identifying and/ or developing new ground control technologies that have application to WIPP conditions Documenting and evaluating ground support system component failure Evaluating the effects of new mining and mine design changes on the effectiveness of installed ground support systems, proposed installations, and the stability of the excavation 3.4.4 Methods Thorough evaluations of the ground conditions and support system performance throughout the facility will be performed annually. Some areas may be evaluated more frequently as conditions warrant, These evaluations will provide information necessary to address the near­ term ground control needs and for long­ term ground control planning. Three basic options are available to address unstable ground conditions: (I) support 14 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 the ground, (2) remove the ground, or (3) discontinue access. The first two options are engineering alternatives while the third option is an administrative decision. The ground control design criteria are based on long­ term objectives, experience, performance of existing systems, laboratory and in­ situ tests of selected ground control components and/ or systems, numerical analysis, and site­ specific geotechnical data. These criteria may be modified to accommodate technological advances, geologic conditions, or operational requirements. Routine Activities Ground support systems will be installed in accordance with approved written instructions. Monitoring of the geotechnical instruments that monitor the performance of the support systems will be performed routinely and carried out according to approved WlPP procedures. Other Activities of the Ground Control Program Activities which are in development, or which are not expected to be performed routinely, will be performed in accordance with industry standards or individual program plans that supplement this program plan. 4.0QUALITY ASSURANCE The WlPP Geotechnical Engineering programs are governed by the WID Quality Assurance Program Description. Steps to ensure quality will be incorporated, as needed, in the technical procedures used for geotechnical engineering activities. The Geotechnical Engineering manger, or assigned designee, is responsible for developing and maintaining this program plan and associated procedures. 4.1 Desian Control Items and processes will be designed using sound engineering/ scientific principles and appropriate standards. Design work, including changes, will incorporate appropriate requirements such as general design criteria and design basis. Design interfaces will be identified and controlled. The adequacy of products will be verified by individuals or groups other than those who performed the work. Verification work will be completed before approval and implementation of the design. 4.2 Procurement Procurement will be carried out in accordance with the appropriate policies and procedures. Technical requirements and services will be developed and specified in procurement documents. If deemed necessary, these documents will require suppliers to have an adequate quality assurance program to ensure that required characteristics are attained. 15 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 4.3 Instructions. Procedures and Drawinas Quality­ affecting activities performed by, or on behalf of, the geotechnical engineering programs will be performed in accordance with written plans or approved procedures. WlPP general procedures will be used for procurement, document control, and quality assurance. Technical procedures will be developed for routine quality­ affecting functions. The procedures will include in­ process and final quality controls and documentation require­ ments. The procedures will be as detailed as required and include, when applicable, quantitative or qualitative acceptance criteria to determine that activities have been satisfactorily accomplished. Procedures will be developed in accordance with existing WlPP procedures. 4.4 Document Control Documents that prescribe processes, specify requirements, or establish design will be prepared, approved, issued, and controlled. Controls will ensure that the latest approved versions of procedures are used in performing geotechnical functions, and that obsolete materials are removed from work areas. The Geotechnical Engineering manager will identify the individuals responsible for the preparation, review, and approval of geotechnical engineering controlled documents. 4.5 Control of Purchased Material, Eauioment. and Services Measures will be taken, in accordance with current WlPP procurement policies and procedures, to ensure that procured items and services conform to specified requirements. These measures will generally include one or more of the following: Evaluation of the supplierk capability to provide items or services, in accordance with requirements, including the previous record in providing similar products or services satisfactorily Evaluation of objective evidence of conformance, such as supplier submittals Examination and testing of items or services upon delivery If it is determined that additional measures are required to ensure quality in a specific procurement, additional steps may be included in procurement documents and implemented by Geotechnical Engineering personnel and/ or the Quality and Regulatory Assurance Department. These additional assurances may include source inspection and audits ,or surveillance at the suppliers! facilities. 16 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 4.6 Identification and Control of Items Measures will be used to ensure that only correct and accepted items are used at WIPP. All items that potentially affect the quality of the geotechnical engineering programs will be identified and controlled to ensure traceability and prevent the use of incorrect or defective items. 4.7 Test Control Testing or experimentaI/ monitoring activities will be in accordance with written plans or procedures that contain the following provisions, as applicable: Purpose, scope and/ or definition Prerequisites such as calibrated instrumentation and supporting data; adequate test equipment and instrumentation, including accuracy requirements; completeness of item to be tested; suitable and controlled environmental conditions; and provisions for data collection and storage Instructions for performing the test Any mandatory inspection and/ or hold points to be witnessed by WID or other designated representatives Acceptance and rejection criteria Methods of documenting or recording test data Requirements for qualified personnel Evaluation of test results by authorized personnel Test or experirnental/ monitoring procedures prepared by other project participants (e. g., Sandia National Laboratories) used as WID procurement documents will be reviewed to ensure that the documents are complete and the tests described by the documents are adequate to determine that the involved equipment, systems, or structures are operationally acceptable. 4.8 Software Reauirements Computer program procurement, design, and testing activities that effect quality­ refated activities performed by WID or its suppliers will be accomplished in accordance with approved procedures (WP 16­ 1, WlPP Computer Protection Plan). 17 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 Test requirements and acceptance criteria will be specified, documented, and reviewed and will be based upon applicable software requirement, design, or other pertinent technical documents. Required tests, including verification, hardware integration, and in­ use tests, will be controlled. Testing of software will, at a minimum, verify the capability of the computer program to produce valid results for test problems encompassing the range of permitted usage defined by the program documentation. Testing will also be designed to identify and eliminate any serious defect that could, for example, cause a crash. Depending on the complexity of the computer program being tested, requirements may range from a single test of the completed computer program to a series of tests performed at various stages of computer program development to verify correct translation between stages and proper working of individual modules. This will be followed by an overall computer program test. Any software to be developed on site (by WID personnel or others) (i. e., noncommercial software) will follow the requirements of NQA­ 2.7, and shalI include, at a minimum, a requirements document, a design document, a validation and verification plan, a software quality assurance plan, a testing plan and procedures, a configuration management plan, and appropriate user manuals. These will be reviewed and approved by appropriate WID personnel. Regardless of the number of stages of testing performed, verification testing and validation will be of sufficient scope and depth to establish that software functional test requirements are satisfied and that the software produces a valid result for its intended function. 4.9 Control of Monitorina and Data Collection EauiDment Monitoring and data collection equipment will be controlled and calibrated in accordance with applicable WlPP controlled procedures. Results of calibrations, maintenance, and repair will be documented. Calibration records will identify the reference standard and the relationship to national standards or nationally accepted measurement systems. Calibration reports and operability test data will be maintained by Geotechnicat Engineering. Any out­ of­ tolerance condition will be evaluated for potential impact on the validity of data. Impact evaluation and corrective actions will be initiated per specific Geotechnical Engineering instructions. 18 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 4.10 Handlina. Storaae. and Shiminq Handling, storage, and shipping of items will be coordinated in accordance with established procedures or other specific documents. Geotechnical Engineering is responsible for storing, handling, and shipping rock core and other geologic samples. 4.1 I Control of Nonconformina Conditionslltems Conditions adverse to quality will be documented and classified in regard to their significance. Corrective action will be taken accordingly. Equipment that does not conform to specified requirements will be controlled to prevent its use. Faulty items will be tagged and segregated. Repaired equipment will be subject to the original acceptance inspections and tests prior to use. 4.12 Corrective Actions Conditions adverse to acceptable quality will be documented and reported in accordance with corrective action procedures and corrected as soon as practical. Immediate action will be taken to control work, and its results, performed under conditions adverse to acceptable quality in order to prevent degradation in quality. The Geotechnical Engineering manager, or designee, will investigate any deficiencies in activities in accordance with approved procedures. 4.13 Records Manauernent Identification, preparation, collection, storage, maintenance, disposition, and permanent storage of records will be in accordance with approved WlPP procedures. Generation of records will accurately reflect completed work and facility conditions and will comply with statutory or contractual requirements. The Geotechnical Engineering Records and Inventory and Disposition Schedule describes the classification and disposition for all records generated by the group. While in their custody, the records will be protected from loss and damage in accordance with approved WlPP procedures and they will coordinate with Project Records Services (PRS) for transfer of quality records to PRS. They are also responsible for the Core Library in the Core Storage Building where records will be maintained of all Core Library activities, including additions, removal of any material, any tests performed on the core, a record of people who examine the core on site, and any other alterations made to the core. 4.14 Audits and IndeDendent Assessments Planned periodic assessments will be conducted to measure management and item 19 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07­ 01, Rev. 2 quality and process effectiveness, and to promote improvement. The organization performing independent assessments will have sufficient authority and freedom to carry out its responsibilities. Persons conducting assessments will be technically qualified and knowledgeable of the items and processes to be assessed. 4.15 Data Reduction and Verification Computer programs, commercial data processing applications, and manual calculations that collect or manipulate/ reduce data will be verified. Verification must be performed before the presentation of final results or their use in subsequent activities. If it becomes necessary to present or use unchecked results, transmittals and subsequent calculations will be marked "preliminary" until such time that the results are verified and determined to be correct. , 5.0 REFERENCES Title 30 CFR 57, Subpart B, "Ground Control" Title 40 CFR 1 194, Section 42, "Monitoring" WP 13­ 1, Quality Assurance Program Description WP 16­ 1, WlPP Computer Protection Plan 20 GIs FIELD DATA SHEET DATE 3 '% z '9 TIME 9' 10 READINGS BY FIELDTAG ENTITY READING G I S I D C­ G H­ F 4 ­ SKETCH OF INSTALLATION I F E D VIEW LOOKING NORTH STATION E520 ­ SI841 INSTRUMENT TYPE CVPT READING DEVICE SINCO SERIAL NUMBER CHECK DATE Y l 4 9 7 COMMENTS GIs FIELD DATA SHEET FIELDTAG ENTITY READING 1 GISID I SKETCH OF INSTALLATION . I STATION INSTRUMENT TYPE ,m, READING DEVICE d­, SERIAL NUMBER 3 CHECK DATE Lf /; L d / 7 9 COMMENTS F E 0 VIEW LOOKING NORTH GIs FIELD DATA SHEET SKETCH OF INSTALLATION : T 1 F E 0 C ~ VIEW LOOKING NORTH STATION E520 ­ S3717 INSTRUMENT TYPE CVPT READING DEVICE SINCO SERIAL NUMBER 3 3 a g CHECK DATE 2 0 9 9 COMMENTS Prevj o u v S1688 GIs FIELD DATA SHEET DATE 3 fJA f9? TIME 9 :o/ READINGS BY 1 I . SKETCH OF INSTALLATION a VIEW LOOKING NORTH E520 51758 ­ STATION INSTRUMENT TYPE .2. READING DEVICE .SfNCO. SERIAL NUMBER 3 3 2 f CHECK DATE COMMENTS 4 /a O l ' i 7 E520 51758 ­ STATION INSTRUMENT TYPE .2. READING DEVICE .SfNCO. SERIAL NUMBER 3 3 2 f CHECK DATE COMMENTS 4 /a O l ' i 7 SKETCH OF INSTALLATION 4 H A F E D E520 ­ SI802 STATION INSTRUMENT TYPE CVPT READING DEVICE SINCO SERIAL NUMBER 3318 CHECK DATE q /u /7 9 Previouslv SI775 COMMENTS VIEW LOOKING N Q B 3 . GIs FIELD DATA SHEET DATE 3fDzI* TIME 9 : /o READINGS BY dl% khhbi FIELDTAG ENTITY READING GISID SKETCH OF INSTALLATION ; F E D VIEW LOOKING .NORTH STATION F520 ­ SI841 INSTRUMENT TYPE m, READING DEVICE SERIAL NUMBER 3 3 1 8 CHECK DATE 5/ /2 0 /9 ? COMMENTS CVPT FIELD DATA CHECKPRINT DATE TIME GlSlD FEET INCHES DIAL W99­ 08: 47 3/ 22/ 99 08: 47 3/ 22/ 99 08: 47 3122199 08: 47 3/ 22/ 99 0853 3/ 22/ 9? 3 0853 3 m 9 0857' 3/ 22/ 99 0857" 3/ 22/ 99 09: Ol 3/ 22/ 99 09: Ol 3/ 22/ 99 09: Ol 3/ 22/ 99 09: Ol 3/ 2z99 rn­ 06 ­ Y22m 09m 37zm9 09: m 3/ 22/ 99 09: m 16505 16504" 16921 16922 16944 ­ 16729 1673 1 16728 16665 16346 16760 ' 16725­ 16739 16740 16742 16741' Y6785­ 16344 16726 m727 10 10 31 31 11 c 10 38 11 l& 30 ­10 ?l­ 10­ 10 I' 30^ 10 lt3 30 = 10 11 ­ 16733 ­­. 11 2 10 2 ­ 0 O C 10 8­ 8 8 .> 6 4 = 4 6, 10 6' 10 8* 6& 6. 2 4 ­ 0.168 . t. 320 1.240 t. 843 0162 ' 1.037 0.118 1.153 0.265 1.163 1.117 T. 562 t 959 1.528 0.771 t .834 1.011 0.942­ Q­ 1 €lo* €k37lS 1.259 I CVPT FIELD DATA CHECKPRINT DATE TIME GiSlD FEET INCHES DIAL 3/ 22/ 99 09: lO 3/ 22/ 99 09: lO 3/ 22m­ 09: lO 3/ 22199­ 09: 14 3/ 22/ 99­­ 09r14 3m99 0977 3/ 22/ 99 09: 17 3/ 22/ 94 09: 19 m 9 9 0920 v m 9 0920 W 9 9 09: 21 W 9 9 09: 23 J22199 09: 25 1/ 22/ 99 09~ 26 122/ 99 09128 m 9 9 0929 122/ 99 09: 30 1W99 09: 30 122199 09: 30 m 9 09: 35 09% 16735 ­­ 16% 16648­ ­I6647 16744 16746 16­ 372 16886 16957 16885 16884 16883 16882 16881 18203 18217 18218 18220 18204 182l1 30 11 11 30 . 11­ 10 11 1? 31 . 10 10 10 10 10 12 12 12 12 12 12 4 4 2 10 2 10 4 2 2 10 10 6 4 4 2 4 . 10 10 8 6 0.076 0.368 1.662 t. 159 0225 0.721 0.777 0.638 0.188 0.016 1.734 0.656 0.493 0.898 0.237 1.303 0.719 0.248 0.666 0.974 I 1.978 CVPT FIELD DATA CHECKPRINT 3122199 m36 3122199 0959 3/ 22lW 09: 39 3/ 22/ 99 09: 39 3/ 22/ 99 09: 39 3/ 22/ 99 09x3 3WW 09x3 3/ 22/ 99 09: 47 3/ 22/ 99 09: 47 3/ 22/ 99 09: 47 DATE TIME GlSlD FEET INCHES DIAL 3/ 22199 0947 .3m99 09: s 322199 0953 ­ %22/ 99 09: m w 9 9 09: s 3/ p199 09: s m 9 9 09: s .3/ 22/ 99 10: 05 3/ 22/ 99 10: 05 3/ 22199 10: 07 18212 'a 31 18213 182f4' 18215 18216 18201. 18202 18205 18206 18207 38208 * 1 8209 * 18210 18197 ' 181 99. 78198' 18200 18195 18196 I81 94­ 18190 ' 121, 13* 31 ­ 12 1 2% 3 Z y 12 k 1 2 3f' ­ 12 12 30 ­ ?T 3 P ­72' t2' 12h 31 * ­12 1 11 6 2 0 2 10 2 ' a 4­ 6 6 8 6 10 *e .2 ' 4 u 8 ' 10 0 2 10 4.737 1.663 i ­0.281 4 0.217 0r328 1.610 t. 769 0.520 ' 0.748 0.193 0.478 t ­438 0.940 0.347 * o..! ju6' ­+: 907' . 1.095 ' 0.652 0.497 0.485 0.285 l CVPT FIELD DATA CHECKPRINT DATE TIME GlSlD FEET INCHES DIAL I 3m99 10: 09 3/ 22/ 99 10: 09 3/ 22/ 99 10: 14 3/ 22/ 99 10: 14 3/ 22/ 99 10: 14 3/ 22/ 99 10: 14 3/ 22/ 99 10: 19 m 9 9 10: 19 w 9 9 10: 19 V22/ 99 10: 28 1122/ 99 10128 /22199 10: 30 /22f99 10: 30 122199 10: 42 122/ 99 10: 43 tw99 lo:& 122199 lo:& 3/ 22199 10: M 3/ 22/ 99 1050 3/ 22/ 99 1051 3/ 22/ 99 10153 18191 18193 165% 16555 16947 a 16948 16492 16493 16945 16497 16797 16629 16512 16674 16877 16876 16451 16965 16874 16873 18240 12 12 9 9 32 . 32 9 9 . 31 10 a 30­ 10 31 10 10 10 30 10 12 10 10 0 2 8 . 10 2 2 1 0. 4 ­ 6 2 8 8 ­ 2 0 4 10 8 8 0 a 2 0.829 0.626 0.753 1.833 t. 282 1.379 0.421 I 1.647 1.360 0.753 1.243 1.035 0.420 1.126 1.795 0.61 3 7.780 0.078 1.986 0.255 1 .ai I d I C ­ CVPT FIELD DATA CHECKPRINT IDATE TIME GlSlD FEET INCHES DIAL I 3/ 22/ 99 1053 3/ 22/ 98 1056 3/ 22/ 99 1057 3/ 22/ 99 1057 3/ 22/ 99 1057 3/ 23L99­­ 09141 3/ 23/ 99 09: 43 3/ 23/ 99 09: 43 3/ 23/ 99 09: 43 3/ 23/ 99 09: 43 3/ 23/ 99 10: 40 3/ 23/ 99 10: 40 3/ 23/ 99 10: 40 3/ 23/ 99 10: 40 3/ 23/ 99 10: 40 3/ 23( 99 10: 40 3/ 23/ 99 1050 3/ 23/ 99 10: 50 3/ 23/ 99 1050 3/ 23/ 99 1053 16987 16490 16738 16736 . 16737 18287 18284 18285 t 1 8286 18249 18326 18282 181 45 18247 1 8248 18280 18142 1 a277 30 10 10 10 11 la­ ' 18 * 18 ' 18 ' 24 19 19 23' 24 ­ 25 ­. 19 19 19 24 18 6 2 8: 6 1 6 0 a . 8 10 4 4.­ 4 6 6. 2 2 0 0 2 2 0.421 1.167 0.066 1.021 1.165 1.026 1.71 7 1.469 0.234 1.209 0.576 1.177 0.170 0.635 0.176 1.110 0.545 0.877 0.043 1 .ow Date: 3/ 24/ 99 Checkprint# 1 Time: 9: 13 AM Records Printed: 104 Checked By /L­ 4 I I r I 1 I I I ­I I I I I I I I I I DOEITWIPP 98­ 3 118 Geotechnical Analysis Report for July 1996 ­ June 1997 September 1998 Y Y Waste Isolation Pilot Plant mE3 WP I I I I I I I I i 1 1 i i i 1 1 i Table of Contents List of Tables ; ............. iv List of Figures v 1.0 Introdmion ..................... : ................................................................................................ 1­ 1 1.1 Location and Description ........................................................................................ 1­ 1 1.3 Development Status ................................................................................................ 14 1.4 Purpose and Scope of Geomechanical­ Monitoring Program .................................. 1­ 6 1.4.1 Instrumentation ........................................................................................... 1­ 6 1.4.2 Data Acquisition .......................................................................................... 1­ 6 1.4.3 Data Evaluation ........................................................................................... 1­ 8 1.4.4. Data Errors .................................................................................................. 1­ 9 2.0 Geology 2­ 1 2.1 Regional Stratigraphy .............................................................................................. 2.1 2.1.1 Castile Formation .......................................................................................... 2­ 1 2.1.2 Salado Formation .......................................................................................... 2­ 3 2.1.3 Rustler Formation .......................................................................................... 2­ 3 2.1.4 Dewey Lake Redbeds .................................................................................... 2.3 2.1.5 Dockum Group .............................................................................................. 2­ 4 2.1.6 Gatuiia Formation. Mescalero Caliche. and Surficial Sediments .................. 2­ 4 Underground Facility Stratigraphy ......................................................................... 2­ 5 2.2. I Disposal Horizon Stratigraphy ...................................................................... 2­ 5 Performance of Shafts and Keys ...................................................................................... 3­ 1 3.1 Salt Handling Shaft ................................................................................................. 3­ 1 3.1 . 1 Shaft Performance ....................................................................................... 3­ 1 3.1.2 Instrumentation ........................................................................................... 3­ 1 3.2 Waste Shaft ............................................................................................................. 3­ 5 3.2.1 Shaft Performance ....................................................................................... 3­ 5 3.3 Exhaust Shaft .......................................................................................................... 3­ 9 3.3.1 Shaft Performance ..................................................................................... 3­ 11 3.3.2 Instrumentation ......................................................................................... 3­ 11 Air Intake Shaft ..................................................................................................... 3­ 11 .................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................. 1.2 Mission .................................................................................................................... 1 4 .. ............................................................................................................................ 2.2 2.2.2 Experimental Area Stratigraphy .................................................................... 2­ 7 3.0 3.2.2 Instrumentation ........................................................................................... 3­ 5 3.4 i 4.0 5 . 0 6.0 7.0 8.0 9.0 10.0 3.4.1 Shaft Performance ..................................................................................... 3­ 15 3.4.2 Instrumentation ......................................................................................... 3­ 15 Performance of Shaft Stations .......................................................................................... 4­ 1 4.1 Salt Handiing Shaft Station ..................................................................................... 4­ 1 4 . I . 1 Modifications to Excavation ....................................................................... 4­ 1 4.1.2 Instrumentation ........................................................................................... 4­ 1 Waste Shaft Station ................................................................................................. 4­ 5 4.2.1 Modifications to Excavation ....................................................................... 4­ 5 4.2.2 Instrumentatiop ........................................................................................... 4­ 7 Performance of Access Drifts ........................................................................................... 5­ 1 5.1 Modificationshlaintenance ..................................................................................... 5­ 1 5.2 Instrumentation ....................................................................................................... 5­ 1 5.2. I Borehole Extensometers .............................................................................. 5­ 1 5.2.2 Convergence Points ..................................................................................... 5­ 4 5.3 Excavation Performance ......................................................................................... 5 4 5.4 Analysis of Convergence Data ................................................................................ 5­ 4 Performance of Northern Experimental Area .................................................................. 6­ 1 6.1 ModificationsNaintenance ..................................................................................... 6­ 1 6.2 Instrumentation ....................................................................................................... 6­ 1 6.2. I Borehole Extensometers .............................................................................. 6­ 1 6.2.2 Convergence Points ..................................................................................... 6­ 1 6.2.3 Wire Convergence Meters .......................................................... ......._..... .... 6­ 3 6.3 Excavation Performance ......................................................................................... 6­ 3 6.4 Performance of Waste Disposal Area ......................................................................­...... ~7 ­~ 7.1 Modifications to Excavations ............................................................................. ­ .... 7­ 1 7.2 Instrumentation ....................................................................................................... 7­ 2 7.3 Excavation Performance ......................................................................................... 7­ 2 7.4 Analysis of Convergence Data ................................................................................ 7­ 5 4.2 Analysis of Convergence Data ................................................................ ­ ............... 6­ 3 Geosciences Program ....................................................................................................... 8­ 1 8.1 Borehole Inspections ............................................................................................... 8­ 1 Geologic Core Lo_ gging ........................................................................................... 8­ 4 8.2 8.3 Summary ............................................................................. ............................­....... ........­ 9­ 1 References and Bibliography ............................................................................­............ 10­ 1 10.1 Cited References ................................................................................................... 10­ 1 Geologic and Fracture Mapping of Excavation Surfaces ....................... e._.­ ............ 8­ 3 .. 10.2 Selected Bibliography ... ... . . . . ... . Q .. . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . , . .. . . . . . . .. . . .... . . . . .. . ... . . 10­ 3 Appendices: Appendix A ­ Corrected Tables of Separation and Offset in Observation Boreholes for the 1995­ 1996 Reporting Period ... 111 I . 0 Introduction This Geotechnical Analysis Report (GAR) interprets and presents the geotechnical data from the underground excavations at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP). The data, used to characterize conditions, assess design assumptions, and clarify and evaluate the performance of the underground excavations during operations, are obtained as part of a regular monitoring program. GARS have been available to the public since 1983. During the Site and Preliminary Design Validation (SPDV) Program, the architectlengineer for the project produced these reports on a quarterly basis to document the geomechanical performance during and immediateiy after construction of the underground facility. Since the completion of the construction phase of the project in 1987, the reports have been prepared annually by the management and operating contractor for the facility. This report describes the performance and conditions of selected areas from July 1 , 1996, to June 30, 1997. This report is formatted into nine chapters. The remainder of Chapter 1.0 provides background information on the WIPP site, its mission, and the purpose and scope of the geomechanical monitoring program. Chapter 2.0 describes the local and regional geology of the WIPP site. Chapters 3.0 and 4.0 describe the geomechanical instrumentation located in the facility shafts and shaft stations and the results of the monitoring and interpretation of this instrumentation. Chapters 5.0,6.0, and 7.0 present the results of geomechanical instrumentation monitoring in the three main portions of the WIPP underground facility; the Northern Experimental Area, the access drifts, and the Waste Disposal Area. Chapter 8.0 discusses the activities included in the Geosciences Program, which includes geologic core mapping, fracture mapping, and borehole observations. The final chapter. Chapter 9.0. summarizes the results of the geomechanical instrumentation monitoring and compares the current excavation performance to the system design requirements. 1.1 Location and Description The WIPP is located in southeastern New Mexico, 42 kilometers (km) (26 miles) east of Carlsbad (Figure 1­ 1). The surface facilities were built on the flat to gently rolling hiIls that are characteristic of the Los Medaiios area. The underground facility is being excavated approximately 655 meters (m) (2,150 feet [ft]) beneath the surface, in the Salado Formation. Figure 1­ 2 shows a plan view of the underground facility at the WIPP, site as i t is currently. 1­ 1 I' 2 Figure 1­ 1 General Location of the WIPP Facility . 1­ 2 Portion o i the Facility Deactivated in September 1996 Not to Scale Figure 1­ 2 Schematic of Current Underground Facility 1­ 3 1: I 1 1 I 1 I 1 1 I ' I I I I i ! 9.0 Summary At the beginning of the WTPP project, criteria were developed that address the requirements for the design of the WPP (DOE, 1984). These criteria, in the form of design requirements, covered all aspects of the mined facility and its operation as a pilot plant for the demonstration of technical and operational methods for permanent disposal of CH­ and RH­ TRU waste. As the WIPP developed and the focus moved toward the permanent disposal of TRU waste, these design requirements were reassessed and replaced in 1994 by a new set of requirements called system design descriptions (SDD). Table 9­ 1 shows the comparison of these SDDs with conditions actually observed in the underground from July 1996 to June 1997. Fracture development in the roof is primarily caused by the concentration of compressive stresses in the roof beam and is influenced by the size and shape of the excavation and the stratigraphy in the immediate vicinity of the opening. Pillar deformations induce lateral compressive stresses into the immediate roof and floor. With time the buildup of stress causes differential movement along stratigraphic boundaries. This differential movement is identified as offsets in observation boreholes and is indicated by bending deformation in failed rockboits. Large strains associated with lateral movements in the roof can induce fracturing in the roof, which is frequently seen near the ribs. This scenario of roof deterioration, combining a buildup of compressive stresses over time, horizontal offsetting, and large strains associated with lateral movements, is substantiated by observations of similar roof deterioration in SPDV Room 1. SPDV Room 2, and the E140 drift between S IO00 and S 1950. Major modifications to the underground during this reporting period consisted of roof beam removal in the E140 drift in the area of S 1000 to S1300. The decision to remove the beam came as a result of operational scheduling and convenience as well as observations of roof beam deterioration. Observations included high expansion rates across clay G found from extensometer data, visual observation of fracturing within the immediate roof, and an increasing number of bolt failures occurring in the area. Although the roof beam could have been maintained through roof control measures, it was also determined that operationally it was an appropriate and convenient time to remove the roof beam. Data from convergence point arrays located in the E 140 drift between S 1000 and S 1300. which were installed after the roof beam was removed, indicate the vertical closure rate after roof beam removal is constant at approximately 4 c d y r ( 1.5 in/ yr). Data from convergence point arrays in the E140 drift between S 1300 and S 1950 show a relatively constant vertical closure rate since the removal of the roof 9­ 1 Table 9­ 1 Comparison of Excavation Performance to System Design Descriptions System Design Description SDD­ UHOO. Underground Hoisting. Section 2.1.2.6.3 Section 2.1.26.4 Section 2. f. 2.8 hydrostatic pressure.. . ." piezometers located behind the shaft keys in the Waste Shaft and the Exhausr Shaft remains below design levels. Piezometers located in the Salt Handling Shaft were not functioning during this reporting period. Historic data indicate water pressures in the Salt Handling Shaft to be below design levels. The Salt Handling Shaft liner continues to resist water inflow into the shaft. Efforts are underway to determine if the piezometers in the Salt structurally sable. Extensometers located in the Salt Handling Shaft and the Exhaust Shaft were not functioning during this reporting period. Historic data indicate that closure of a11 the shafts remains within design "The key shall be designed to retain the rock formation and will be provided with chemical seal rings and a water collection ring with drains to prevent water from flowing down the unlined shaft from the lining above."­ The small amount of groundwater inflow into the shafts is effectively controlled through grouting. Seepage into the Exhaust Shaft is minimal and the source and content of such seepage are being characterized (Intera 1997. IT, 1997). I I I I ! ! j I ! i I I i I i i I 1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Table 9­ 1 (Continued) Comparison of Excavation Performance to System Design Descriptions System Design Description Requirement SDD­ AUOO, Undermound Facilities and Eauipment, Section 2.2.1.2. Underground Disposal Facilities `The underground waste disposal facilities shall be designed to provide space and adequate access for the underground equipment and temporary storage space to support underground operations." "The underground waste disposal facilities shall be designed to provide the 2.2* 1.2* Underground (Continued) capability of reuieving the emplaced CH an& RH TRU waste?­ "Entries and sub­ entries to the ` underground disposal area and tht experimental areas shall be provided and sized for personnel safety, adequate air flow, and space for equipment." Section 2.2.1.3, Underground Shaft Pillar Facilities ;DD­ EMOO. Environmental vfonitorinq. Section 2.2.5. I "Geomechaoical instrumentation shall be provided to measure the cumulative deformation of the rock mass Comments Geomechanical instrument data and visual observations indicate that the current design provides adequate access and storage space. retrievability i s no longer necessary. Deformation of excavation remains within the required limits. The northern portion of the underground from approximately NSOO was deactivated during this reporting period because the area is no longer needed for experimental purposes. This area is no longer accessible. Approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet) of roof; up to clay G, was removed in the E140drift from SI000 to S1300. Geotechnical instrumentation is operated and maintained to meet this requirement. Additional georechnical instruments were installed in various parts of the WIPP underground (including the E140 drift. Room 7. Panel 1 , and SPDV Room 4) during this reporting period. Geotechnical experts agree that the monitoring program at the WIPP has been proven adequate. specifically with regard to the instrumentation in Room 1 . Panel 1 (DOE. 199 I b). beam, despite the fact that the rate in some areas is approximately 5 c d y r (2 idyr). These rates and visual observations indicate a more stable roof beam in the E140 drift between S 1000 and S 1950. In order to monitor the response of the new roof beam, 14 convergence point arrays have been installed in the E140 drift between S 1000 and S 1950 since the roof beam was removed. The in situ performance of the excavations generally continues to satisfy the appropriate design criteria. although specific areas are being identified where deterioration resulting from aging 9­ 3 Attachment D. 2 Hydrological Do cum en ts I Effective Date: 3/ 12 WP 02­ 1 Revision 3 Groundwater Surveillance Program Plan Cognizant Section: Environmental Monitorina Approved By: Siqnature on file D. R. KumD Cognizant Department: ESH Approved By: Signature on file C. F. Wu WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 1 .Q INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................. 1 2.0 REFERENCES ................................................................................................. 1 3.0 RESPONSIBILITIES ......................................................................................... 3 GSP QUALITY ASSURANCE PLAN ................................................................ 4.0 3 4.1 Introduction.. 4 4.1 .I Department of Energy (DOE) Order 5400.1 .......................................... 4 4.1.2 4 4.1.3 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) .............................. 4 4.1.4 Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) Commitments ................ 4 4.1.5 Future Land Use Decisions ................................................................... 5 GSP Quality Assurance Requirements ........................................................ 5 4.2.2 Quality Assurance Program.. ................................................................. 5 4.2.3 Design Control ....................................................................................... 5 4.2.4 Procurement Document Control ............................................................ 5 4.2.5 Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings ................................................ 6 4.2.6 Document Control .................................................................................. 6 4.2.7 Control of Purchased Material, Equipment and Services ...................... 6 4.2.8 Identification and Control of Items ......................................................... 7 4.2.9 Control of Processes ............................................................................. 7 4.2.10 Inspection/ SurveilJance.. ............................................................... 7 4.2.11 Test Control ................................................................................... 8 4.2.12 Control of Monitoring and Data Collection Equipment .................. 8 4.2.13 Handling, Storage, and Shipping .................................................. 8 4.2.14 Inspection and Acceptance Testing .............................................. a 4.2,15 Control of Nonconforming Conditions ........................................... 9 4.2.16 Corrective Action ........................................................................... 9 4.2.17 Quality Assurance Records ........................................................... 9 4.2.18 Assessments ................................................................................. ..................................................................................................... DOEEH 01 73T ......................................................................... ; ............ 4.2 IO GSP WATER QUALITY SAMPLING PLAN .................................................... 10 5.1 Scope ...................................................................................... d IO 5.1 .I General ................................................................................................. 7 4 5.2 Surveillance Well Construction .................................................................. 13 5.3 Sampling Proqram Description ................................................................... 13 5.3.1 Serial Sampling .................................................................................... 13 5.3.2 Final Samples ...................................................................................... 14 5.4 Groundwater Pumpinq and Sampling Svstems .......................................... 16 5.5 Pressure Monitorinq Svstems ........ ..:. ........................................................ 16 5.6 Sample Analvsis ......................................................................................... 5.0 ................... WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN ..................................................................................... 17 18 19 19 21 5.6.1 Serial Samples 5.6.2 Rnal Samples ...................................................................................... ................ 5.7 5.8 Sample Preservation, Trackinq, Packaging and Transportation Qualitv Assurance, Records Management and Document Control ............ 5.9 Calibration Requirements ........................................................................... 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7 ............................................................ WATER LEVEL MONlTOR" PLAN 21 Scope 21 Records and Document Control ................................................................. ......................................................................................................... ................................................................................................ 21 htroduction .................................................................................................... 22 Obiective 24 Field Methods 24 Repodinq .................................................................................................... 25 .......................................................................... 25 c a1 i brati on Requirements. ............................................................................................. WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 1 .o INTRODUCTION This is the controlling document for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) Groundwater Surveillance Program (GSP). The GSP is administered as part of the WlPP Environmental Monitoring Program by the Environmental Monitoring (EM) Section of the Environment, Safety and Health (ES& H) Department. 2.0 REFERENCES DOE Order 5400.1 , General Environmental Protection Program DOEIEH 01 73T, Environmental Regulatory Guide for Radiological Effluent Monitoring and Environmental Surveillance Groundwater Protection Management Program Plan WP 02­ 3, Environmental Procedures Manual WP IO­ AD. WlPP Maintenance Administrative Procedures Manual WP 12­ 1 , Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Safety Manual WP 12­ 1 07, Hazard Communication Program WP 13­ 1, WID Quality Assurance Program Description WP 15­ 6, Purchasing Policies and Procedures Manual WP 15­ PR, Records Management Plan 3.0 RESPONSIBILITIES The overall organizational structure of the Westinghouse WID is described in Part I , Section 1 of the Quality Assurance Program Description (QAPD). The GSP is the responsibility of the ES& H Department. The GSP is conducted by the EM Section of this department. The EM manager assumes responsibility for the overall design and implementation of the GSP including the following areas: 0 Development and approval of specific procedures for €he conduct of all GSP activities. 1 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 0 0 Establishment of minimum qualification criteria and training requirements for all program personnel. Review and approval of programmatic reports. 0 Oversight of appropriate levels of cooperation and consultation between the EM Section and the state of New Mexico regarding environmental monitoring. 1 Preparation of the QA section of the GSP Plan. The EM manager and staff are responsible for achieving and maintaining quality in the GSP. Job descriptions will be maintained for the EM manager, professional, technical, and administrative staff positions. All GSP data shall be reviewed and approved by the EM manager, or designee, prior to release. The EM manager appoints a GSP Team Leader (TL), assigning the following responsibilities to the TL: 0 Direct GSP per written approved procedures. I] Initiate review of programmatic plans and procedures. 0 Review and evaluate sample data. 0 Prepare and review programmatic reports. 0 Assure that appropriate samples are collected and analyzed. I] Assure that adequate technical support is provided to the Quality and Regulatory Assurance (Q& RA) Department, when required during audits of vendor facilities. The EM manager designates one or more scientists, engineers, or technicians who will be responsible for the following items: Collection and subsequent distribution of samples. Preparation and maintenance of appropriate data sheets and sample tracking documentation. Monitoring of equipment operability status. Reporting of equipment malfunctions. Reporting of nonconformance to the TL or EM manager. 2 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 0 Overseeing of quality control checks of data. 0 Conducting field activities in accordance with written procedures. The Q& RA manager provides independent oversight of the GSP, via the assigned cognizant Q& RA engineer, to verify that quality objectives are defined and achieved. The Q& RA manager ensures objective, independent assessments of GSP quality performance. The Q& J# manager has been delegated authority and given organizational freedom by the WID General Manager to access work areas, identify quality problems, initiate or recommend corrective actions, verify implementation of corrective actions, and ensure that work is controlled or stopped until adequate disposition of an unsatisfactory condition has been implemented. The EM manager assures that basic qualifications for GSP personnel are carried out in accordance with Section 2 of the QAPD. The EM manager assures that position descriptions for assigned GSP personnel are adequately prepared. Each position description will include position purpose, principal responsibilities, nature of work, and scope. The EM manager andlor TL assures that training is performed on an individual basis to maintain an acceptable level of proficiency by all new or temporary GSP staff and by all permanent GSP staff. New GSP employees are required to review pertinent program documentation, become familiar with applicable procedures, and complete appropriate qualifications prior to undertaking any unsupervised GSP task, To become qualified to perform a specific task or series of tasks, an employee must demonstrate subject knowledge and practical skills and become certified in performing the task( s) by a board­ certified subject matter expert (SME). Employees who have not completed the appropriate qualification card will not be allowed to conduct unsupervised GSP activities. The EM manager, TL, or task SME may determine the need for retraining of GSP personnel. Retraining may be noted by Q& RA during any sur% eillance or audit or during a periodic review initiated by the EM manager, TL, or SME. The EM manager assures that documents detailing all staff training are current and properly filed. Copies of training records shall be on file in the WID Technical Training Sect ion. 3 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 4.0 GSP QUALITY ASSURANCE PLAN 4.1 Introduction This section is the quality assurance (QA) plan for the WIPP GSP. The objective of this QA plan is to establish the specific QA requirements associated with the GSP. The GSP currently consists of two activities: the Water Quality Sampling Program (WQSP) and the Water Level Monitoring Program (WLMP). Technical implementation of each specific activity is controlled by an individual program plan and unique operating procedures. The GSP provides a mechanism for addressing the following: 4.1.1 Department of Energy (DOE) Order 5400.1 Chapter 3 of the DOE Order 5400.1, General Environmental Protection Program, states that I ' ... all Department of Energy (DOE) sites will conduct a groundwater protection management program." The order requires each ui) E site to provide for the design and implementation of a groundwater monitoring effort that supports resource management and complies with applicable environmental laws and regulations. 4.1.2 DOE/ EH 0173T DOE/ EH 01 73T, Environmental Regulatory Guide for Radiological Effluent Monitoring and Environmental Surveillance, states that: It is the policy of DOE to conduct effluent monitoring and environmental surveillance programs that are adequate to determine whether the public and the environment are adequately protected during DOE operations and whether operations are in compliance with DOE and other applicable Federal, State, and local radiation standards and requirements. It is also DOE policy that Departmental monitoring and surveillance programs be capable of detecting and quantifying unplanned releases and meet high standards of quality and credibility. It is DOE'S objective that all DOE operations properly and accurately measure radionuclides in their effluent and in ambient environmental media. 4.1.3 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) By virtue of a Groundwater Monitoring Waiver, prepared under 40 CFR 265, the WlPP Project is not required to monitor groundwater to comply with the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) RCRA. The WlPP GSP provides a basis for future compliance to the RCRA, as well as any other groundwater protection­ related regulations, should the need arise. 4 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 4.1.4 Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) Commitments Section 5.2.2 of the FEIS states that "... long­ term groundwater sampling and water level monitoring will be conducted as part of the WlPP Environmental Monitoring Program." 4.1.5 Future Land Use Decisions Data collected from the program will aid in making future groundwater­ land use decisions (Le., designing long term and passive institutional controls for the site). This QA plan is driven by, and is supplemental to, both the WID QAPD, WP 13­ 1, and implementing WlPP Q& RA procedures. 4.2 GSP Qualitv Assurance Requirements The following specific Q& RA requirements are unique to the GSP. 4.2.2 Quality Assurance Program This plan is governed by the following documents: WP 13­ 1, WID Quality Assurance Program Description; and WP 02­ 3, Environmental Procedures Manual. Steps to ensure quality are incorporated, as needed, in the technical procedures used for groundwater surveillance activities. The EM manager or assigned designee is responsible for developing and maintaining this QA plan and groundwater surveillance procedures. In accordance with the WID QAPD, Part I, Section 1, groundwater surveillance data activities are classified as Quality Code 11. 4.2.3 Design Control The design control requirements used by Westinghouse at the WID are described in Part 11, Section 6 of the QAPD. The GSP will adhere to all applicable portions of these requirements when performing design activities. 4.2.4 Procurement Document Control Procurement is carried out in accordance with WID procurement policies and procedures, as outlined in Part I I , Section 7 of the QAPD, and WP 15­ 6, Purchasing Policies and Procedures Manual. Both documents require specification of a quality code and design class and concurrence by the Q& F! A Department with procurement documents, Technical requirements for procured items and services are developed and specified in procurement documents. the required characteristics, procurement adequate QA program. If deemed necessary to ensure attainment of documents may require suppliers to have an 5 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 4.2.5 Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings Provisions and responsibilities for the preparation and use of instructions and procedures at the WIPP are outlined in Part II, Section 4 of the QAPD. Quality­ affecting activities performed by or on behalf of groundwater surveillance are required to be performed in accordance with documented and approved procedures. Technical procedures have been developed for each quality­ affecting function performed for groundwater surveillance. The technical procedures unique to the GSP are contained in the procedures sectien of this manual. The procedures are as detailed as required and include, when applicable, quantitative or qualitative acceptance criteria to determine that activities have been satisfactorily accomplished. Procedure requirements are in accordance with Section 4 of WP 13­ 1. Procedures will be prepared in accordance with applicable technical writer's guides. 4.2.6 Document Control Requirements for the control of documents are outlined in Part I i , Section 4 of the WID QAPD. Controls ensure that the latest approved versions of procedures are used in performing groundwater surveillance functions and that obsolete materials are removed from work areas. 4.2.7 Control of Purchased Material, Equipment and Services WlPP policy requirements and associated responsibilities for the control of purchased material, equipment, and services are outlined in Part II, Section 7 of the QAPD. In accordance with current WlPP procurement policies and procedures, measures will be taken to ensure that procured items and services conform to specified requirements. These measures will include one or more of the following: I] An evaluation of the supplier's capability to provide items or services in accordance with the requirements, including the history of providing similar products or services satisfactorily. [I An evaluation of objective evidence of conformance, such as supplier submittal (i. e., QA plan). [I An examination and testing of items or services upon delivery. If it is determined that additional measures are required to ensure quality in a specific procurement, additional steps may be provided in procurement documents and implemented by groundwater surveillance staff andlor the Q& RA Department. These additional assurances may include source inspection and audits or surveillance at the 6 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN supplier's facilities. 4.2.8 Identification and Control of Items Measures to ensure that only correct and accepted items are used at the WlPP are outlined in Part 11, Section 8 of the QAPD. All items that potentially affect the quality of the GSP are uniquely identified and controlled to ensure that only accepted items are used. Equipment is administered in accordance with WP IO­ AD, WlPP Maintenance Administrative Procedures Manual. Calibration reports test data are maintained by the EM Department. Any "out­ of­ tolerance" condition is evaluated for potential impact on the validity of data. Impact evaluation and corrective actions are initiated per specific GSP instructions. 4.2.9 Control of Processes All process control requirements of the QAPD are met by the GSP. 4.2.1 0 JnspectionlSurveillance Inspection and surveillance activities are conducted as outlined in Part It, Section 10 of the QAPD. The Q& RA Department is responsible for performing the applicable inspections and surveillance on the scope of work. Performance checks are performed by groundwater surveillance personnel as specified by the appropriate procedures, and by WID m6trology laboratory personnel. Performance checks for the GSP are designed to determine the acceptability of purchased items and to assess degradation that occurs during use. 4.2.1 1 Test Control Part I I , Section 8 of the WID QAPD outlines the requirements and responsibilities of the WID for the control of tests. Tests to be performed for the GSP fall into two general categories: tests of items upon receipt and in service, and operability checks of equipment. All tests are performed in accordance with documented and approved' plans and/ or procedures. Testing or experirnental/ monitoring plans or procedures contain the following provisions as applicable: 0 Scope and/ or definition or scope. El Prerequisites such as calibrated instrumentation and supporting data; adequate test equipment and instrumentation, including accuracy requirements; completeness of item to be tested; suitable and controlled 7 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEiLLANCE PROGRAM PLAN environmental conditions; and provisions for data collection and storage. Instructions for performing the test. Mandatory inspection andlor hold points to be witnessed by the WID or other designated representatives. Acceptance and rejection criteria. Methods of documenting or recording test data. Requirements for qualified personnel. Evaluation of test results by authorized personnel. Control of Monitoring and Data Collection Equipment Monitoring and Data Collection (M& BC) equipment is controlled and calibrated according WP 1 0­ AD, WIPP Maintenance Administrative Procedures Manual, to ensure continued accuracy of groundwater surveillance data. Results of calibrations, maintenance, and repair are documented. Calibration records identify the reference standard and the relationship to national standards or nationally accepted measurement systems. Records are maintained to track uses of M& DC equipment. If M& DC equipment is found to be out of tolerance, the equipment is tagged and its use ceased until corrections are made. An evaluation shall be approved by the EM manager and corrective measures will be taken, as needed. 4.2.1 3 Handling, Storage, and Shipping Handling, storage, packaging, and shipping of groundwater samples are controlled in accordance with WP 10­ AD, WlPP Maintenance Administrative Procedures Manual. Proper documentation is prepared and maintained for each sample to minimize damage, loss, deterioration, and extraneous exposures. 4.2.14 Inspection and Acceptance Testing Measures used by the WID to ensure that required inspections and tests performed are outlined in Part II, Section 8 of the WID QAPD. Controls are implemented in accordance with documented procedures to ensure that items are not used pnor to passing required inspections and tests. The status is identified on the items or on documents traceable to the items. Items that have not been accepted are identified as such and stored separately from accepted items. The operating status of equipment is identified on the equipment or on the equipment list. Faulty equipment is tagged and, if practicable, physically segregated from the work area. 8 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 4.2.15 Control of Nonconforming Conditions Part I I , Section 8 of the WID QAPD describes the system used at the WlPP for ensuring that appropriate measures are established to control nonconforming conditions. Nonconforming conditions connected to the GSP are identified in and controlled by documented procedures. Equipment that does not conform to specified requirements is controlled to prevent use. The disposition of defective items is documented on records traceable to the affected items. Prior to final disposition, faulty items are tagged and segregated. Repaired equipment is subject to the original acceptance inspections and tests prior to use. 4.2.16 Corrective Action Requirements for the development and implementation of a system to determine, document, and initiate appropriate corrective actions after encountering conditions adverse to quality at the WlPP are outlined in Part I , Section 3 of the QAPD. Conditions adverse to acceptable quality are documented and reported in accordance with corrective action procedures and corrected as soon as practical. Immediate action will be taken to control work performed under conditions adverse to acceptable quality, and its results, to prevent degradation in quality. The EM manager or designee investigates any deficiencies in groundwater surveillance activities to determine if there is an underlying root cause. All such actions are documented and reported to the Q& RA Department. 4.2.17 Quality Assurance Records Part I, Section 4 of the QAPD outlines the policy used at the WIPP regarding ientification, preparation, collection, storage, maintenance, disposition, and permanent storage of QA records. The EM manager or designee is responsible for the preparation and distribution of records in accordance with appropriate DOE Orders, policies, and directives. Records to be generated in the GSP are specified by procedure. QA records are identified. This is the basis for the labeling of records as "QA" on the EM Records Inventory and Disposition Schedule (RIDS). QA records document the results of the GSP implementing procedures and are sufficient io demonstrate that all quality­ related aspects are valid. The records will be identifiable, legible, and retrievable in accordance with WP 15­ PR, WID Records Management Plan, and QA record procedures. While in the custody of the GSP group, the records shall be stored in a UL fisted, one­ hour fire­ resistant cabinet. The EM manager shall coordinate with WlPP Project Records Services (PRS) for both periodic and perpetual transfer of records to PRS. 9 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 4.2.1 8 Assessments Provisions and responsibilities for assessments are outlined in Part i l l , Sections 9 and '1 0, of the QAPD. Periodic, independent assessments of the GSP shall be scheduled, planned, and performed to verify that work is performed in accordance with specified requirements. The Independent Assessment Section has the responsibility and oversight authority for appraising GSP activities for compliance with applicable environmental statutes. Assessment teams will not include members of the GSP staff. Assessments are performed in accordance with applicable assessment procedures. 5.0 GSP WATER QUALITY SAMPLING PLAN 5.1 S c m e This section of the WlPP GSP Plan serves as the controlling document for the WQSP The WQSP is a subprogram of the GSP. The WQSP was initiated in January 1985. The objective of the program is to collect representative and reproducible groundwater samples from water­ bearing zones in the area of the WlPP site. The purpose of the program is to provide defensible data for meeting the requirements of site characterization, performance assessment, regulatory compliance, and permitting. A program plan that defined the basic structure and operational activities of the program was initially developed by Colton and Morse (1985). The program plan was replaced in 1987 by WP 07­ 2, Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Water Quality Sampling Manual. In 1991 the WQSP manual was replaced by WP 02­ 1, Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Groundwater Monitoring Program Plan and Procedures Manual ~ 5.1 .I General From 1984 to 1990, the WQSP was designed to characterize the physical and chemical characteristics of representative groundwater samples occurring within and immediately surrounding the WlPP site. Various wells were serially sampled, three times each, to determine the representative character of the groundwater present at each location. Data collected were supplied to the ES& H Department and used to develop a baseline of water quality data as part of the Radiological Baseline Program. A nonradiological database was developed to support the background water quality characterization report. Data were also supplied to and used by Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) for site characterization and performance assessment. By the close of 1990, the groundwater of interest had been characterized, and the objective of the program shifted from characterization to surveillance. On October 1, 1988, the ES& H Department assumed responsibility for the WQSP. Water quality sampling activities were coordinated with the Environmental Monitoring 10 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN Program. Collection of groundwater quality data continues to assist the DOE in meeting performance assessment, regulatory compliance, and permitting requirements. The data also provide: 0 Radiological and nonradiological water quality input to the WlPP Environmental Monitoring Program. I] A means to comply with future groundwater inventory and monitoring regulations. 0 Input for making land­ use decisions (i. e,, designing long­ term active and passive institutional controls for the site). Groundwater exists both above and below the WIPP repository, but no hydrologic continuity exists between the repository and the groundwater. Groundwater below the repository occurring in the sandstones of the Delaware Mountain Group (Powers, et al., 1978) is isolated by bedded salt deposits in the lower part of the Salado Formation and in the underlying Castile Formation. Groundwater below the repository is not being monitored as part of this program. Groundwater above the repository is being monitored. Groundwater exists in both the Dewey Lake Formation and the Rustler Formation. Zones monitored for background characterization within the Rustler are the Culebra and the Magenta members. These zones appear to be dolomite units isolated from one another by impermeable units. With the exception of excavated shafts at WIPP, these zones are isolated from the repository excavations by bedded salt deposits in the upper two thirds of the Salado Formation. Postbackground surveillance is focused on the Culebra because it is the primary flow path within the Rustler formation. Databases are maintained for the Magenta so that if the need arises surveillance of the Magenta can be resumed. The Culebra is areally persistent, but quantity and quality of water va; y considerably from place to place. The dolomite is vuggy, fractured, and commonly associated with anhydride (Lambert and Mercer, 1977). The Culebra has a low hydraulic conductivity. It is a fractured unit that is best modeled as a dual­ porosity media. Water yields are small and saline (Powers et al., 1978). The Magenta is finely crystalline and dense. Like the Culebra, the Magenta has a low hydraulic conductivity through fractures and contains limited amounts of poor quality water (Powers et al., 1978). The Dewey Lake Redbeds consist of orange­ red silt stone, mud stone, and some 11 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN sandstone. The Dewey Lake Redbeds do not form an aquifer, but some permeable sand lenses are present and those yield limited quantities of fresh water to a few private wells in the area around the WIPP site (Powers et al., 1978). One such sand lens has been identified within the WlPP boundary and is scheduled for surveillance as part of the WQSP. 5.2 Surveillance Well Construction Many of the WIPP surveillance wells were drilled and completed prior to 1980. As the WIPP Project progressed, additional monitoring wells were completed in the vicinity of the site. Drilling of the bulk of WlPP surveillance wells began in 1976 and continued into 1988. In general, all of these wells were drilled as part of the geologic site characterization and resource evaluation programs. Most WlPP surveillance wells were drilled and completed using oil field techniques. Surveillance wells at the site have been completed, generally, using two types of installations. One installation requires drilling the well to some depth below the base of the Culebra and then casing the well to the bottom of the hole. The interval of the Culebra or Magenta is then perforated to allow access to the formation for testing or sampling purposes. The second type of installation consists of drilling the hole to a depth just above the top of the Culebra, installing well casing to the bottom of the drilled hole, and coring or drilling through the Culebra interval, leaving the Culebra interval open to the formation. These types of well completions presented problems in collecting undisturbed and representative samples from the water­ bearing units. The open­ hole completions have, in some cases, resulted in sediments below the CuIebra being exposed in the sampling interval. In some cases, these sediments are rich in halite or other evaporite minerals, causing the water chemistry in the well bore and the water­ bearing unit surrounding the well to be altered. Often, during drilling and completion of surveillance wells, fluids containing fresh water, saturated brine, and drilling fluids containing petroleum products have been introduced into the well bore. In some cases, these fluids were left standing in the well bore for extended periods of time, resulting in contamination of the surrounding formation (Crawley 1988). Standard oil field steel well casings have been used during completion of the WlPP surveillance wells. This type of casing is easily corroded by the brackish to brine water found in the WlPP area. Based on serial sampling results, it appears that the products of well casing corrosion migrate from the well bore into the formation, resulting in a halo or plume of groundwater with altered chemistry surrounding the surveillance wells. Obtaining a representative sample has required that the surveillance wells be pumped for long periods of time to remove the contamination. Well drilling and completion techniques such as those described above are usually not used for installation of monitoring wells employed in RCRA or sther groundwater 12 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN sampling programs, due to the likelihood of aquifer contamination. These practices required that the WQSP use extensive groundwater pumping in order to obtain uncontaminated water samples. The difficulty in obtaining representative groundwater samples, due to the design of the wells used by the WQSP, necessitated the use of a serial sampling technique. Serial sampling and the associated equipment are discussed later in this section. Seven observation wells were completed after the baseline was established using EPA recommended drilling methods and casing materials that have the potentiar to meet RCRA monitoring standards. Six of the wells were completed in the Culebra; one well in the Dewey Lake formation. Two years of sampling are scheduled prior to the anticipated receipt of waste. The data gathered from these wells will be compared to the existing database and the existing background data will be appended as appropriate. The configuration of the seven new observation wells may well preclude the necessity to perform serial sampling. However, sampling of a portion of the older surveillance wells may be necessary in years to come. Therefore, a discussion of serial sampling techniques is included in this document. 5.3 Samdina Proaram Descrbtion The WQSP has employed two types of sampling procedures at the WIPP: serial sampling and final sampling. 5.3.1 Serial Sampling Serial sampling is the collection of sequential samples for the purpose of determining when the water chemistry stabilizes or reaches a steady state. Ideally, when the water chemistry stabilizes, it is assumed that the chemistry is representative of the native formation fluid, and a final sample is collected. However, in reality, serial sampling leads to the collection of water samples with reproducible chemistries which may or may not be representative of the undisturbed groundwater. The water samples may still be impacted by well construction practices and effects from the installation of downhole pumping and sampling equipment. During the background characterization phase of the WQSP serial sample, field parameters were monitored on a daily basis. After completion of the background characterization phase, monitoring of serial sample parameters was modified by pumping each well for 48 hours prior to the start of serial sampling then comparing the serial sampling analysis results to the average last day serial sample results for previous sampling rounds. A 95 percent confidence interval was established for com pa riso n standards. 13 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN The field analytical parameters found to be the most useful in identifying a steady state condition of the water chemistry include chloride, divalent cations (hardness), and alkalinity, which are analyzed by classic wet chemistry bench methods (titration). Totai iron has also been found to be a useful indicator and is analyzed using spectrophotometric methods. Other serial sampling parameters analyzed in the field include measurement of pH, Eh, temperature, specific conductance, and specific gravity. Procedures for collection and analysis of serial samples are processed, approved, and maintained by the site documentation process. 5.3.2 Final Samples Final groundwater samples are collected once evidence from serial sampling indicates that the pumped groundwater has reached a chemical steady state. Final samples are forwarded to a contract analytical laboratory for analysis. Final samples are collected in the appropriate type of container for the specific analysis to be performed, For each parameter analyzed, a sufficient volume of sample is collected to satisfy the volume requirements of the analytical laboratory. This includes an additional volume of sample water necessary for maintaining quality control standards. All final samples are treated, handled, and preserved as required for the specific type of analysis to be performed. Details about sample collection, preservation, and volumes required for individual types of analyses are found in the applicable procedures generated, approved, and maintained by the site documentation process. Splits of the final sample are provided to oversight agencies and WIPP stakeholders as requested by the DOE. A split of the sample is also placed in storage within the ES& H Environmental Sample storage area and held until final reports from the contract analytical laboratory have been evaluated and approved. When the final laboratory report has been approved the samples are removed from storage and destroyed. Detailed protocols, in the form of procedures, assure that samples are collected in a consistent and repeatable fashion. Procedures applicabie to water quality sampling are generated, approved, and maintained by the site documentation process. The serial sampling process will probably not be needed with the wells completed specifically for water quality sampling. However, during the first two years of sampling, the wells will be serially sampled using an abbreviated method. It is anticipated that changes in the water chemistry from stagnated to representative will occur within the first 24 hours of the purging process. Whereas, this change usually occurred over a seven­ day period with the old wells. During the first two or three years of sampling, these wells will be serially sampled with the first sample being analyzed as soon as possible after the pump is turned on and daily there after for a period of four days or until the field parameters (chloride, divalent 14 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN cations, alkalinity and iron) stabilize. Eh, pH, and conductance will be monitored continuously by using a flow cell with ion­ specific electrodes and a real­ time readout. After two years of sampling data have been accumulated, a decision will be made to determine if the serial sampling process can be eliminated. If serial sampling is removed from the water quality sampling well protocol, the decision to collect samples will be based on the number of well bore volumes purged and the results of continuous monitoring of temperature Eh, pH, and conductance. 5.4 Groundwater PumDina and SarnDlina Svstems The water­ bearing units at the WlPP are highly variable in their ability to yield water to surveillance wells. The Culebra, the most transmissive hydrologic unit in the WlPP area, exhibits transmissivities that range many orders of magnitude across the site area and has been the primary focus of the GSP. The Magenta has a lower transmissivity and yields very small quantities of water to wells. Because the water­ yielding characteristics of the hydrologic units at the WlPP are variable, different types of pumping equipment are used during water quality sampling activities. The groundwater pumping and sampling systems used to collect a groundwater sample are designed to provide continuous and adequate production of water so that a representative groundwater sample can be obtained. The wells used for water quality sampling vary in yield, depth, and pumping lift. These factors affect the duration of pumping as well as the equipment required at each well. Based upon expected yields, the wells monitored at WlPP can be divided into three categories according to flow rate: (1 ) high flow rate of 10 to 25 gallons per minute (gpm); (2) medium flow rate or 1 to 10 gpm; and (3) low flow rate of less than 1 gpm. The high and medium flow rate wells may use a submersible pump­ packer assembly. The low­ volume wells may require a gas­ driven piston pump­ packer assembly. A discussion of the different pump­ packer equipment is provided below. The type of pumping and sampling system to be used in a wet1 depends primarily on the aquifer characteristics and well construction. For example, if well construction is such that it yields contamination to the aquifer (i. e., metal casing) a packer is normally recommended to minimize purging time, If the aquifer yields adequate water to the well to be classified a high or medium production well, a submersible electric pump may be used. However, if the well is completed with the water­ bearing unit uncased, a gas piston pump may be needed to minimize stress to the formation walls to prevent collapse of the formation. Wells that are completed to water quality standards are cased and screened through the production interval with materials that do not yield contamination to the aquifer or allow the production interval to collapse under stress. An electric, submersible pump installation without the use of a packer is an acceptable installation in this instance. WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN The largest amount of discharge from the submersible pump takes place from a discharge pipe. In addition to this main discharge pipe a dedicated nylon sample line, running parallel to the discharge pipe, is also used. Flow through the pipe is regulated on the surface by a flow control valve andlor variable speed drive controller. Cumulative flow is measured using a totalizing flow meter. Flow from the discharge pipe is routed to a discharge tank for disposal. The dedicated nylon sampling line is used to collect the water sample that will undergo analysis. By using a dedicated nylon sample line, the water is not contaminated by the metal discharge pipe. The sample line branches from the main discharge pipe a few inches above the pump. Flow from the sample line is routed into the sample collection area. Flow through the sample collection line is regulated by a flow­ control valve. The sample line is insulated at the surface to minimize temperature fluctuations. A gas­ driven pump and sampling system can be used on any volume well. When used, the pump intake is set at a predetermined depth near or in the production zone. The pumping rate is adjusted to maintain the water level in the well above the pump intake. The flow rate for gas driven pumps is controlled by regulating the air pressure on the pump intake or by a flow control valve. Water is continuously discharged into a water storage tank. Detailed protocol for assembling, installing, and controlling pumping and sampling systems is found in the procedures generated, approved, and maintained by the site documentation process 5.5 Pressure Monitorina Svstems Regardless of which pump is used when sampling a well that was drilled for the geologic site characterization and resource evaluation program, a packer is used to isolate the pump intake from contaminated well­ bore fluid that exists in the well above the sampling zone. If the packer seal is not good, contaminated water from above the packer can leak into the formation water being sampled and bias analytical results. If the packer has a good seal the pressure above the inflated packer should remain con st ant. Pressure above the packer is monitored using transducers and/ or bubblers to verify that the seal on the packer is good. Pressure below the packer is monitored to ensure that water levels do not fall below the pump intake. Periodic checks of the pressures are conducted during field sampling to verify packer seal integrity. These field checks are recorded on Field Activity Log Forms. Wells drilled to water­ quality specifications do not require the installation of a packer because sample biases due to well construction deficiencies are not present. However, pressures will be monitored in the formation to maintain water level above the pump intake. Procedures governing the installation and use of pressure monitoring devices are generated, approved, and maintained by the site documentation process. 16 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 5.6 Sample Analvsis The mobile field laboratory provides a work place for conducting field sampling and analyses. The laboratory is positioned near the wellhead, is climate controlled, and contains the necessary equipment, reagents, glassware, and deionized water for conducting the various analyses. Two types of water samples are collected: serial samples and final samples. Serial samples are taken at regular intervals and analyzed in the mobile laboratory for various physical and chemical parameters (called field parameters). The serial sample data are used to determine the chemical steady state conditions of the groundwater, as a direct function of the volume of the water being pumped from the well. Interpretation of the serial sampling data enables the TL to make a determination of when steady state conditions are attained in the pumped groundwater. Final samples are collected when the serially sampled field parameters have achieved a steady state. If one or more of the field parameters do not stabilize, and there is reason to believe it will not, the TL may choose to collect the final sample regardless of this instability in the field parameter( s). The objective of the serial sampling effort is to obtain representative water samples in a reproducible manner. By definition, a representative groundwater sample is a sample of undisturbed groundwater. A groundwater sample is considered to be representative of the undisturbed groundwater only if it is chemically identical to the undisturbed groundwater (i, e., completely unaltered by the effects of drilling, postdrilling processes and reactions, and sampling procedures). Obtaining a representative groundwater sample is a theoretical ideal. For example, the redox potential of the aquifer groundwater, Eh, is likely to change as a result of pressure decreases (gas loss) and contamination by atmospheric oxygen that occurs during the sampling process. The ratios between the different oxidation states of a multivariant element may change, and the total concentration of that element may also change during sampling due to precipitation. To determine how close the pumped groundwater is to being representative, a comparison is made by monitoring the same selected field parameters whiz5 were used to initially define the background characteristics of the water. When these parameters appear stable, then the determination is made that the water sample is representative. Stability is usually defined as * 5 percent of the average of preceding parameter measurements made on the final day of sampling for previous rounds. When stability has been determined, a final sample is collected. The final sample is considered to be as representative a sample of the undisturbed groundwater as can possibly be obtained considering the analytical and technical means at hand. 17 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 G RO U N DWATER SU RVEl LLAN CE PROGRAM PLAN 5.6.1 Serial Samples Serial samples are collected and analyzed in the mobile laboratory to detect and monitor the chemical variation of the groundwater as a function of the volume of water pumped. The purpose of implementing this rigorous serial sampling and analysis program is to ascertain when the pumped groundwater has reached a chemical steady state. Once serial sampling begins, the frequency at which serial samples are collected and analyzed is left to the discretion of the TL. The serial sampling frequency is based upon the site­ specific conditions existing at each well, but usually is performed a minimum of three times during a sampling round. The three field parameters of temperature, Eh, and pH are determined by either an "in­ line" technique, using a self­ contained flow cell, or an "off­ line" technique, in which the samples are collected from a nylon sample line at atmospheric pressure. The iron, divalent cation, chloride, alkalinity, specific conductance, and specific gravity samples are collected from the nylon sample line at atmospheric pressure. New polyethylene containers are used to collect the serial samples from the nylon sample line. Serial sampling water collected for solute and specific conductance determinations is filtered through a 0.45 pm filter membrane using a stainless steel, in­ line filter holder. Filtered water is used to rinse the sample bottle prior to serial sample collection. Unfiltered groundwater is used when determining temperature, pH, Eh, and specific gravity. Sample bottles are properly identified and labeled. The filtered sample collected for solute analyses is immediately analyzed for iron and alkalinity, as these two solution parameters are extremely sensitive to changes in the ambient water­ sample pressure and temperature. The sample aliquot needed for the other chemical parameter analyses may be taken from a second filtered sample bottle. Temperature, pH, and Eh, when not measured in a flow cell, are measured at the approximate time of serial sample collection; these samples are collected from the unfiltered sample line. Experience gained from the serial sampling of wells has shown that samples to be analyzed for chloride and divalent cations can be stored for one week prior to analysis with confidence that the analytical results will not be altered. Upon completion of the collection of the final sample suite, the serial sample bottles accrued throughout the duration of the pumping of the well are discarded. No serial sample bottles will be reused for sampling purposes of any sort. However, serial samples may be archived for a period of time depending upon the need. Procedures for sample collection and analysis are generated, approved, and maintained by the site documentation process. 5.6.2 Final Samples 18 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 G RO U N DWATER S U RVEl LLANC E PROGRAM PLAN The final sample is collected once the pumped groundwater has achieved a chemically steady state. A serial sample is also collected and analyzed for each day of final sampling. Sample preservation, handling, and transportation methods are designed to maintain the integrity and representativeness of the final samples. Prior to collecting the final samples, the collection team must consider the analyses to be performed so that proper shipping or storage containers can be assembled. Final samples are sent to contract laboratories and analyzed for general chemistry, radionuclides, metals, and selected volatile organic compounds that are specific to the waste anticipated to arrive at WIPP. Gases and redox­ couples were analyzed during the baseline study, but these data are not needed for environmental monitoring and are no longer obtained on a routine basis. Water samples are collected at atmospheric pressure using either the filtered or unfiltered nylon sampling lines branching from the main sample line. The samples are collected in new and unused glass and plastic containers. Before the final sample is taken, all plastic and glass containers are rinsed with the pumped groundwater, either filtered or unfiltered, dependent upon analysis protocol. When the rinsing procedure is completed, the final sample is collected. 5.7 Sample Preservation, Trackina. Packaaina and Transoortation Many of the chemical constituents that are measured are not chemically stable and need to be preserved. Samples requiring acidification are treated with either high purity hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, or sulfuric acid (ULTREX or equivalent), depending upon the standard method of treatment required for the particular parameter suite. The procedure used by the contract laboratory to which the samples are being sent prescribes the type and amount of preservative which should be used. This information is recorded on the Final Sample Checklist for use by field personnel when final samples are being collected. The sample tracking system at WlPP uses uniquely numbered Chain of Custody Forms and Request for Analysis Forms. The primary consideration for storage or transportation is that samples must be analyzed within the prescribed holding times for the parameters of interest. Procedures for sample tracking and preservation are generated, approved, and maintained by the site documentation process. The prescribed transport temperature for the organic samples is four degrees Celsius. This temperature must be maintained until the sample reaches the contracted laboratory. Insulated shipping containers packaged with reusable blue ice are used to keep the 19 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN samples cool during transport to the contract laboratory. Hold times for specific analytical parameters require samples to be shipped by express air freight. The coolers are packaged to meet Department of Transportation and International Air Transportation Association commercial carrier regulations. 5.8 Qualitv Assurance. Records Manaaernent and Document Control All aspects of quality assurance, records management, and control of documents generated as a result of WQSP are governed by the QAPD; WP 15­ PR, Records Management Plan; and implementing procedures generated, approved, and maintained by the site documentation process. A chemistry laboratory notebook is maintained in the mobile laboratory to record the overall conditions at the well, the analytical difficulties or problems experienced, and any information which may be pertinent to future interpretation and scientific use of the field data. The original notebook is kept in the field laboratory. A copy of the notes made for each sampling round is kept in a fire­ resistant file cabinet. All field data collected are organized into a data book. The typical field data book contains the following: A copy of all of the notes entered into the laboratory notebook concerning the sampling round. A copy of all chain of custody forms and request for analysis forms used to distribute the final samples. A copy of the completed final sample checklist. A copy of all standardization forms. A hard copy printout of all computer data entries. A copy of all of the Serial Sampling Report Forms submitted for the sampling round. A copy of all worksheets used to prepare the data for entry into the computer. A written summary report containing a description of the well completion data, a brief summary of serial sampling results, and general observations. A copy of all Field Sketch Plan Forms. A copy of all Field Activity Log Forms. 20 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 0 A computer printout of all data logger information, if a data logger was used. 0 Validated Check Print copies of all data sheets. A contract laboratory data book is made for each contract laboratory used to analyze samples from a particular well. The contract laboratory data book contains at a minimum: 0 A copy of the contract laboratory analytical report. a A copy of the computer data generated. Data collected as a result of WQSP activities are summarized and reported on an annual basis in the Site Environmental Report. Raw data are stored in fireproof cabinets in the EM Section for a period of two years and then turned over to PRS for storage in accordance with the RIDS. 5.9 Calibration Requirements The equipment used to collect data for the WQSP is to be calibrated in accordance with WP 1 0­ AD, WIPP Maintenance Administrative Procedures Manual. The metrology laboratory is responsible for calibrating needed equipment on schedule, in accordance with written procedures. The EM Section is responsible for maintaining current calibration records for each piece of equipment. 6.0 WATER LEVEL MONITORING PLAN 6.1 Scoee This section of the WlPP GSP serves as the controlling document for the WLMP. The WLMP is a subprogram of the GSP. The quality assurance activities of the WLMP are in strict accordance with the QAPD and the quality assurance implementing procedures specific to environmental monitoring are found in WP 02­ 3, Environmental Monitoring Procedures Manual. Water level monitoring will continue through the postoperational phase of the WIPP. This plan addresses the activities of the WLMP during the preoperational and operational phases of the WIPP. Postoperational activity plans will be formulated at a later date and will address the objectives of water level monitoring as required at the time of decommissioning. . 6.2 Introduction This program will continue the collection and documentation of water level data initiated by the U. S. Geological Survey (Richey, 1987) and SNL (Stensrud et al., 1988) as part 21 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN of the WlPP Site Characterization Program. As currently planned, water level measurements will be conducted using hydrologic test wells that were constructed for the site characterization and WQSP. These test wells are distributed geographically both within and surrounding the WlPP site. The frequency of measurement is subjectively defined by the need to record the dynamic nature of the potentiometric surface through time. On October 1, 1988, the ES& H Department assumed responsibility for Groundwater Level Monitoring Activities. At that time a WLMP plan was still being developed. In June of 1989, an initial plan was finalized entitled WP 07­ 2, WIPP Water Level Monitoring Program Plan, IT Corp. (June 1989). WP 07­ 2 was subsequently replaced in 1990 by WP 02­ 1 , Groundwater Monitoring Program Plan and Procedures Manual. Collection of groundwater­ level data assists the DOE in meeting performance assessment, regulatory compliance, and permitting requirements. These data also provide: U 0 0 U 0 0 6.3 Data collection as required by the Environmental Monitoring Plan. A means to fulfill commitments made in the FEIS. A means to comply with future groundwater inventory and monitoring regulations. Input for making land use decisions, (i. e., designing long­ term active and passive institutional controls for the site). Assistance in understanding any changes to readings from the water­ pressure transducers installed in each of the shafts to monitor water conditions behind the liners. An understanding of whether or not the horizontal and vertical gradients of flow are changing over time. 0 biective The objective of the WLMP is to extend the documented record of water­ level fluctuations in the Culebra and Magenta members of the Rustler Formation in the vicinity of the WlPP facility. Water­ level data will also be collected from wells completed in other water­ bearing zones overlying and underlying the WlPP repository horizon when access to those zones is possible. This includes, but is not limited to, the Bell Canyon Formation, the Forty Niner member of the Rustler, the contact zone between the Rustler and Salado Formations, and the Dewey Lake Red Beds, when access to these zones is possible. 22 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN The scope of the program is subject to change depending upon the following: a Data trends 0 Performance assessment program needs 0 Environmental Monitoring Program needs 0 Regulatory compliance needs Water level measurements will be taken monthly in at least one accessible completed interval at each available well pad. At well pads with two or more wells completed in the same interval, quarterly measurements will be taken in the redundant wells. Water level monitoring will continue through the life of the WlPP Project. It may be deemed necessary to temporarily increase the frequency of monitoring to effectively document naturally occurring or artificial perturbations that may be imposed on the hydrologic systems at any point in time. This will be conducted in selected key wells by increasing the frequency of the manual water­ level measurements or by monitoring water pressures with the aid of electronic pressure transducers and remote data­ logging systems. One of the postulated contaminate pathways to the biosphere in the event of a release is believed to be in the water­ bearing zones of the Rustler Formation, more specifically, the Magenta and Culebra members. The Culebra is believed to be the more conductive of the two (Mercer, 1983) and has received the most attention in site characterization studies. Other water bearing zones in the vicinity of the WlPP site, in which a limited number of hydrologic test wells have been completed, include the Dewey Lake Red Beds, the RustlerlSalado Contact, the Forty Niner Member of the Rustler, and the Bell Canyon Formation. All of the above listed zones will be monitored as part of this program plan, subject to availability. Water level fluctuations of confined water bearing units may result from a variety of hydrologic phenomena (Freeze and Cherry, 1979) and (Davis and DeWeist, 1966). These include: 1 Changes in groundwater storage (ems., groundwater recharge) 0 Changes in atmospheric pressure 0 Deformation of the water bearing zone (e. g., earthquakes and earth tides) 0 Disturbances within or adjacent to a well (e. g., groundwater pumping and shaft construction) 23 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN Interpretation of water level measurements and corresponding fluctuations over time is complicated at the WlPP by spatial variation in fluid density both vertically in well bores and areally from well to well. To monitor the hydraulic gradients of the hydrologic flow systems at the WlPP accurately, actual water level measurements and the densities of the fluids in the well bores must be known. When both of these parameters are known, equivalent freshwater heads can be calculated. The concept of freshwater head is discussed in Lusczynski (1 961) where the following definition is provided: Fresh water head at a given point in groundwater of variable density is defined as the water level in a well filled with fresh water from that point to a level high enough to balance the existing pressure at that point. Fresh water heads . define hydraulic gradients along a horizontal. A discussion explaining the calculation of freshwater heads from midformation depth at WlPP can be found in Haug, et ai. (1987). A Pressure Density Survey Program (PDSP) has been conducted to determine the actual variation in density gradients existing in the test wells. The PDSP measured the actual midformation pressures of the Culebra. Data from this program have identified those wells in which some adjustment to measured water level values must be accounted for in order to calculate the measured water levels accurately in terms of equivalent freshwater heads. 6.4 Field Methods Po obtain an accurate groundwater level measurement, a calibrated water level measuring device is lowered into a test well and the depth to water is recorded from a known reference point. When using an electrical conductance probe, the depth to water can be determined by reading the appropriate measurement markings on the embossed measuring tape when the alarm is activated at the surface. Specific procedures regarding the specific activities governing the Water Level Monitoring Program are generated, approved, and maintained by the site documentation process. 6.5 Records and Document Control All incoming data will be processed in a timely manner to assure data integrity. The data management process for water level measurements begins with completion of the field data sheets. Date, time, tape measurement, equipment identification number, calibration due date, initial of the field personnel, and equipmenffcomments are recorded on the field data sheets. If, for some unexpected reason, a measurement is not possible (Le., a test is under way that blocks entry to the well bore), then a notation as to why the measurement was not taken is recorded in the comment column. Personnel also use the comment column to report any security observations (Le., well lock missing). 24 WP 02­ 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN Data recorded on the field data sheets and submitted by field personnel are subject to guidelines outlined in WP 02­ 3, Environmental Procedures Manual. The data are entered onto a computerized worksheet. The worksheet calculates water level in both feet and meters relative to the top of casing and also relative to mean sea level. A check print is made of the worksheet printout. The check print is used to verify that data taken in the field is properly reported on the database printout. A minimum of I O percent of the spreadsheet calculations are randomly verified on the check print to ensure that calculations are being performed correctly. If errors are found, the worksheet is corrected. The data contained on the computerized worksheet are translated into a database file. A printout is made of the database file. The data each month are then compiled into report format and transmitted to the appropriate agencies as requested by the DOE. A computerized database file is maintained for all groundwater level data. Monthfy and quarterly data are appended into a yearly file. Upon verification that the yearly database is free of errors, it is appended into the project database file. A printed copy of the project database is maintained in the ES& H EM fire­ resistant storage area current through December of the preceding year. 6.6 ReDortinq Data collected from this program are reported in the Annual Site Environmental Report (ASER). The ASER includes all applicable information that may affect the comparison of water level data through time. This information will include but is not limited to: 1 Well configuration changes that may have occurred from the time of the last measurement (i. e., plug installation and removal, packer removal and reinstallation, or both; and the type and quantity of fluids that may have been introduced into the test wells). 0 Any pumping activities that may have taken place since publication of the last annual report (i. e., water quality sampling, hydraulic testing, and shaft installation or grouting activities). 6.7 Calibration Requirements The equipment used in taking groundwater level measurements is to be calibrated in accordance with WP 10­ AD, WlPP Maintenance Administrative Procedures Manual. The WID metrology laboratory is responsible for calibrating needed equipment on schedule, in accordance with written procedures. The EM Section is responsible for maintaining current calibration records for each piece of equipment. 25 WATER LEVEL MEASUREMENTS FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 1999 COMMENTS AND OBSERVATIONS 1. All measurements were referenced to top of casing and adjusted to mean sea level. 2. Measurements were made with water levef probe E0112 and PE0122. The calibration recall date on this instrument is 01/ 15/ 99. 3. Well number 0­ 268, packer pressure was observed to be 200 psi. 4. Well number Wipp­ 12, checked for H2S; result was negative. 5. Well numbers H­ 05, H­ 06, H­ 07, H­ 08, and H­ 09, have had tall grass and debris removed as well mesquite trimmed back to insure safety around well heads. Page 1 0 R 1 G I N A L' Report Quarterty Waterlevel Measurements For MARCH 1999 WELL ZONE CASING DATE TIME DEPTH ADJUST ADJUSTED ADJUSTED WATER ELEVATION NUMBER ELEVATION TO TO DEPTH DEPTH LEVEL IN it amsl WATER TOC TOC METERS ELEVATION ME7ERS AEC­ 7 AEC­ 8 C­ 2505 C­ 2506 C­ 2507 CB­ 1 0­ 268 DOE­ 1 DOE­ 2 ERDA­ 9 H­ 01 (PIP) H­ 01 (ANNULUS) H­ O2bl H­ 02b2 H­ 02~ H­ 03bl H­ 03b2 H­ 03b3 H­ 03dI49 (PIP) H­ 03dlDL (PVC) H­ 04b H­ 04~ H­ 02a H­ 05a H­ 05b H­ 0% H­ 06a H­ 06b H­ 06C H­ 07bl H­ 07b2 H­ 08a H­ 09a H­ O& H­ 09b H­ 0% H­ 1 Oa H­ lob H­ I Ibl H­ 1 1 b2 H­ I 1 b3 H­ llb4 H­ 12 H­ 14 H­ 15 H­ 16 (PVC) H­ 16 (PIP) H­ 17 H­ I 8 H­ I 9b0 H­ 19b2 H­ 19b3 H­ 19b4 H­ 19b5 H­ I 9b6 H­ 19b7 P­ 14 CUL BIC SR SR SR CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL MAG CUL MAG CUL CUL MAG CUL CUL 49ER DL CUL MAG CUL CUL MAG CUL CUL MAG CUL CUL MAG R U SISAL CUL CUL CUL MAG CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL DL ULM CUL CUL CUL CUI­ CUL CUL CUL ' CUL CUL CUL 3657 25 3537.10 3413.05 34 12.87 3410.01 3328.38 3466.04 3419.09 3410.10 3399.53 3399.53 3378.09 3378.46 3378.31 3378.41 3390.64 3390.03 3390 01 3390.01 3333.35 3334.04 3506.24 3506.04 3506.04 3348.1 1 3348.25 3348.52 316417 3 164.40 3432.99 3432.90 3406.68 340686 3407.30 3689.47 341 1.62 3411.64 3412.42 3427.19 3347.11 3481 63 3406 77 3406.77 3385.31 3414.21 3418.38 3419.01 3419.09 3419.03 3418.63 3419.07 3418.99 3361.06 3280.70 3388.67 3688.67 3410.89 03110199 07: OO 03/ 08/ 99 11 :43 03/ 10/ 99 1153 03/ 10/ 99 1156 03110199 12101 03/ 09/ 99 13: 14 03/ 09/ 99 1539 03/ 10/ 99 11: 23 03/ 10199 08: lO 03/ 10/ 99 09: 14 03l10199 09124 03110199 09: 29 03/ 10/ 99 09140 03/ 10/ 99 0957 03/ 10/ 99 09: 46 03/ 10/ 99 0951 03/ 16/ 99 12: 21 03/ 16/ 99 12~ 24 03/ 16/ 99 12131 03/ 16/ 99 12145 03/ 16/ 99 12: 38 03110199 10: 21 0311 0199 10129 03110199 0750 03/ 10/ 99 07134 03110199 07: 43 03/ 10/ 99 08: 33 0311 0199 08143 03/ 10/ 99 08: 38 03/ 09/ 99 06: 15 03/ 09/ 99 06: 1 1 03/ 09/ 99 07: 18 03/ 09/ 99 07: 26 03/ 09/ 99 08: 03 03/ 09/ 99 07: 49 03/ 09/ 99 07% 03/ 09/ 99 0850 03/ 09/ 99 09: OO 03/ 09/ 99 10145 03/ 09/ 99 I I :04 03/ 09/ 99 11: 14 03/ 09/ 99 10: 28 03/ 09/ 99 09: 49 03/ 10/ 99 10: 08 0311 0199 1 1 :36 03/ 10/ 99 12: 16 0311 0199 12: 20 0309l99 12: 45 03/ 09/ 99 13% 03/ 09/ 99 13: 48 03109199 14~ 16 03/ 09/ 99 14: 02 03/ 09/ 99 13% 03/ 09/ 99 14110 03/ 09/ 99 13142 03108199 14107 03/ 09/ 99 Page 1 619.44 537.58 44.89 44.21 45.66 360.27 275.45 491.63 360.67 404.49 375.86 170.13 344.00 237.33 342.70 342.98 240.12 393.20 391.62 305.86 319.84 333.33 475.60 349.45 296.94 297.24 284.81 167.32 167.76 405.59 453.54 415.50 416.15 416.10 528.81 695.25 432.19 432.23 433.05 427.88 457.39 338.56 520.75 108.63 366.94 425.55 354.98 430.72 432.00 432.24 431.49 431.68 432.08 432.28 316.31 190.82 478.1 I 0.98 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.75 0.00 0.00 0.65 0.67 0.67 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2.22 2.22 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.54 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 3.70 3.89 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 618.46 44.89 44.21 45.66 360.27 274.70 491 63 360.67 403.84 375.19 169.46 344.00 237.33 342.70 342.98 240.1 2 393.20 391.62 303.64 317.62 333.33 190.82 475.60 478.1 1 349.45 296.94 297.24 284.81 167.32 167.76 405.59 453.54 415.50 415.61 416.10 528.81 695.25 432.19 432.23 433.05 427.88 457.39 338.56 520.75 104.93 363.05 425.55 354.96 430.72 432.00 432.24 431.49 537.58 431.68 432.08 432.28 316.31 ia8.51 163.85 13.68 13.48 13.92 109.81 83.73 149.85 109.93 123.09 114.36 51.65 104.85 72.34 104.45 104.54 73.19 119.85 119.37 92.55 96.81 101.60 58.16 144.96 145.73 106.51 90.51 90.60 51.00 51.13 123.62 138.24 126.64 126.68 126.83 ?61.18 211.91 131.73 131.74 131.99 130.42 139.41 103.19 158.72 31.98 110.66 129.71 108.19 131.67 131.75 131.52 131.58 131.70 131.76 96.41 86.81 131.28 3038.79 2999 52 3368.16 3368.66 3364.35 2968.1 1 3006.00 2974.41 3058.42 3006.26 3024.34 3230.07 3034.09 3141.13 3035.61 3035.43 3150.52 2996.83 2997.05 3086.37 3072.39 3000.02 3143.22 3030.64 3027.93 3156.59 3051.17 3051.01 3063.71 2996.85 2996.64 3027.40 2979.36 2991.18 2991.25 2991.20 3159.86 2994.22 2979.43 2979.41 2979.37 2983.01 2969.80 3008.55 2960.88 3301.84 3043.72 2959.76 3059.25 2987.66 2987.01 2986.85 2987.54 2986.95 2986.99 2986.71 51344.75 f i ­7 ORIGINAL 926.22 914.25 1026.62 1025.77 1025.45 904.68 916.23 906 60 932.21 916.31 921.82 984.53 924.79 957.42 925.25 925.20 960 .: 913 ­3 913 50 940.73 936.46 914.41 958.05 923.74 922.91 9c 9%. ,J 929.95 933.82 913.44 913.38 922.75 908.11 911.71 411.73 911.72 963.13 412.64 908.13 908.12 908.17 909.22 917 01 1W. 40 927.73 902. f 3 432.46 910.64 970.44 910.39 410.60 910.42 910.35 9 1 D "4 905.20 902.48 410.43 I Report Quarterly WELL NUMBER Waterlevel Measurements For MARCH 1999 ZONE CASING DATE TIME DEPTH ADJUST ADJUSTED ADJUSTED WATER ELEVATION ELEVATION TO LEVEL IN TO DEPTH DEPTH ft amsl WATER TOC TOC METERS ELEVATION METERS P­ IS P­ I 7 WIPP­ I2 WIPP­ 13 WIPP­ 18 WIPP­ I9 WIPP­ 21 WIPP­ 22 WIPP­ 25 (PIP) WIPP­ 25 (ANNULUS) WIPP­ 26 p­ 18 WIPP­ 27 (PIP) WIPP­ 28 (PIP) WIPP­ 29 WIPP­ 30 (PIP) WQSP­ I WQSP­ 2 WQSP­ 3 WQSP­ 4 WQSP­ 5 w a s p 4 WQSP­ 6a CUL cu L CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL MAG CUL CUL RUSlSAL CUL cu L CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL DL 3311.38 3337.24 3478.42 3472.06 3405.71 34 58.76 3435.14 3418.96 3428.12 3214.39 3214.39 3153.20 3349.21 3429.05 3419.20 3463.90 3433.00 3384 40 3363 80 3364.70 3178 98 2978.26 3480.30 03/ 09/ 99 03/ 09/ 99 03/ 09/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 03/ 10/ 99 0311 0199 03/ 10/ 99 031 10199 0310a199 o~ oa199 15: 19 13: OO 1O: ll 13: 15 12: 12 1313 13: OO 12: 30 1250 09: 15 09: 21 14: 30 06: OO 08: 15 14: 58 08: 51 1349 11: ll 13: 26 11: Il 11: 02 1051 10: 55 Page 2 298.49 355.35 321.49 440 32 347.73 426.01 396.62 404.78 399.86 156.34 133.09 99'00 300.18 11.42 364.41 366.26 466.70 447.99 350.50 165.86 156.68 404.18 383.75 0 00 054 0 00 064 0 00 0 00 0 00 0 00 0 42 0 00 0 00 0 42 0 42 0 00 0 21 0 21 0 21 0 21 0 21 0 21 0 18 o 68 2 oa 298.49 354.81 320.81 440.32 347.09 426.04 396.62 404.78 399.86 155.92 156.68 133.09 299.76 11.42 362.33 366.05 403.97 466.49 383.54 350.29 165.68 98.58 447.78 40.98 108.15 134.21 105.79 129.85 123.38 121.88 47.52 47.76 40.57 30.05 91.37 3.48 110.44 111.57 123.13 142.19 136.48 116.90 106.77 50.50 97.78 120.89 3012 89 918 33 2982 43 909 04 3157 61 962 44 3031 74 924 07 3058 62 932 27 3032.75 924 38 3038 52 926 14 3014 18 918 72 3028 26 923 01 3058 47 932 22 3057 71 931 99 3020 l? 920 53 3080 4 0 938 91 3049 45 929 47 2966 BJ 90429 3066 72 934 74 3053 15 930 60 3059 93 932 67 301 3 8f 91861 2985 22 909 90 3000 86 914 68 3013 51 918 52 319902 975 06 ORIGINAL WATERLEVEL ELEVATION UPDATE MARCH 1999 WELL ZONE CASING DATE TIME DEPTH ADJUST ADJUSTEC ADJUSTED WATER ~L N A T i O h l NUMBER ELEVATION TO TO DEPTH DEPTH LEVEL IN k amsl WATER TOC TOC METERS ELEVATION METERS ­­­­­­ AEC­ 7 AEC­ 7 AEC­ 7 AEC­ 7 AEC. 7 AEC­ 7 AEC. 7 AEC­ 7 AEC. 7 AEC­ 7 AEC­ 7 AEC­ 7 == E==.=== ======= s======== E======= =E===== == 3657 25 0415'98 06 12 61904 0 9 8 3657 25 0513'98 06 00 61889 0 9 8 3657 25 07/ 15/ 98 10 52 61901 098 3657 25 08/ 12/ 98 06 23 61922 0 9 8 3657 25 09/ 10,98 11 58 61924 098 3657 25 10114198 06 14 619 13 0 9 8 3657 25 1111 1/ 98 09 30 61954 0 9 8 365725 12107'98 11 06 61932 0 9 8 3657 25 01/ 13/ 99 06 18 61952 0 9 8 365725 OUOBi99 1226 61949 098 365725 03/ 10/ 99 0700 61944 0 9 8 3657 25 06/ 11/ 98 0605 618 94 098 .­ ­­­­­ ­­­­­­­­­­ ­­ .­ ­­­­ ­ ­­­­­­­­­­ ­­ 51806 18838 517 91 188 34 517.96 10035 618.03 108.38 518.24 188.44 518.15 18841 610.34 188.47 518.54 188.53 618.51 100 52 618.46 188.51 618.26 188.45 518.56 188.54 .­­__­­___ .­­­­­­­_­ 3039 19 3039 34 3039.29 3039 22 3039.01 3038 99 3039.10 3038.91 3038.71 3038.73 3038 69 3038.74 ­ ­­ ­ ­­ ­ ­­­­­­­ a 926 35 926 3 9 926 35 926 29 926 2% 926 32 926 t9 926.26 926 20 926.21 926.22 926 3a AEC­ 7. CULEBRA i 3~ us m r i ............. .. ........ i j ............ ........ ­ i :­ I :c 'E ­1 :i 1 j gmtQ+ ....... ....................... .................................................. I ;ma)­ .............. ~ ! t ..... .. ................ 3oy) W­ ' ! ...................................... i i :! :I i : 3037 a, f ?> .i ............................................ ........ i i y) ym)/.. .... .I %35W ' i I o u i ~a c y ~y 4 ~ 0 ~1 ,~ 07; 7490 W1298 09110196 11y1­ 11/ 11­ 12/ 07­ 38 O l K 6 9 O y W : DATE PAGE 1 OF 80 WATERLEVEL EtEVATION UPDATE MARCH 1999 WELL ZONE CASING DATE TIME OEPTH ADJUST AOJUSTEC ADJUSTED WATER ZLEVATION NUMBER ELEVATION TO TO DEPTH DEPTH LEVEL IN f~ amsl WATER TOC TOC METERS ELEVATION METERS AEC­ 8 AEC­ 8 AEC­ 8 AEC­ 8 AECd AEC­ 8 AEC­ 8 AEC­ 8 AEC­ 8 AEC­ 8 AEC­ 8 AEC­ 8 BIC BIC BIC B/ C B/ C BIC BIC BIC BIC BIC BIC 81C 3537 10 3537 10 3537.10 3537.10 3537.10 3537.10 3537 10 3537.10 3537 10 3537.10 3537.10 2537.10 0411 5198 031 3/ 98 0611 1/ 98 07115198 0811 2/ 98 09110198 10114i98 11/ 09/ 98 12107198 01113/ 99 02/ 08/ 99 03/ 08/ 99 07 15 549 94 06.43 548 95 07 00 547.91 11: 18 546.66 07: 16 545.62 12: 21 544.54 07.02 543.27 11: 36 542.28 11: 36 540.74 06.52 539 70 12.02 538.61 11: 43 537 58 0 00 0 00 0 00 0 00 0 00 0 00 0 00 0 00 0.00 0.00 0 00 0 00 549 94 548 95 547 91 546 66 545 62 544 54 543.27 540.74 539.70 538 61 537 58 542 2a 167 62 167 32 167 00 166 62 166 30 165 98 165.59 165 29 164.82 164 50 164.17 163.85 2987 15 2988.75 2989 19 2990.44 2991 40 2992 56 2993 03 2994 82 2996.36 2997.40 2998 49 2999.52 910 44 910 79 911.11 911.49 911 80 912.! 3 912 52 912.82 913.29 913.61 913.94 974.25 AEC­ 8. BELL CANYON ­i , . . . . . . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ­. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. i I i i ; ! ! I i I I PAGE 2 OF 80 0 > 2 'I 1 1 "./ % \\ 1 I 3 0 ­ n ? I rs ­ J 0 I I s > a ­0 0 v ? 1 ­ ­ b 0 03 0, 0, m C L Q, c 0 N 0 > a, E Q, t 0 N I 0 > al cz n 0 0 I *s a U 1 5 : cnc m .­ Q, I .E a2 E 0 N I:. hs + a a a + t Q, E 0 N n d ­ I I h I i Ln 0 L3 c T c 0 0 7 I 8 rn m a aJ 0, co R I L . l a 4 l a 0 a 5 U '$ 7 ­ .. W 0 a E i= t­ I I_ i I i ! / m t U E E 0 u +­­­ a C 0 N L Q) =n E 5 z I L I E 0 ~ 0 \I K Y \N i A ­ i : 1 i I $1: X I I I !: 0 > Q, oc 7 1 .$ a p r /)E m '­ i i I I Y m: l i c1 c, I H I I 1 l l l i I I I Q, C 0 N L Q, =a 2 25 Groundwarer level Measurements for March 1999 i ______________­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­~ ______________­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ &ELL­ NO AEC­ 7 AEC­ 3 0; c 3537 10 C­ 2505 SR 3413 05 C­ 2506 SR 3412.87 C­ 2507 SR D­ 268 CUL DOE­ 1 CUL 3466.04 DOE­ 2 CUL 3419 09 ERDA­ 9 H a l (PIP) H42a CUL 3378 09 HU2bl H02b2 CUL H42c CUL 3378.41 H43bl H43b2 CUL 3390.03 H03d/ 49 (PIP) 49ER 3390.01 H43d/ DL {PVC) / DL HU4b CUL Hd4c HdSa CUL Hd5b CUL 3506 04 H45c Hd6a CUL 3348.11 H46b CUL H46c MAG 334852 H47bl CUL H47b2 3164.40 H48a H48c H49a CUL 3406 68 H49b CUL H09c CUL 3407 30 H­ loa H­ lob CUL H­ 11 b l CUL H­ 1 1 b2 CUL 3411 64 H­ 11 b3 CUL H ­l l M CUL 3410 89 H­ 12 CUL H­ 14 CUL H­ 15 CUL C6­ 1 CUL 3328 39 / H­ Ol (ANNULUS) / H­ 03b3 , CUL H­ 16 (PVC) / DL H­ 16 (PIP)/ ULM 34m. 77 H­ 17 CUL 335.31 H­ 18 CUC 3059 25/ H­ 19b0 CUL H­ 19b2 CUL 2987.011 H­ 19b3 CUL H­ 19M CUL H­ 19b5 CUL H­ 19b6 CUL H­ 19b7 CUL 3418.99 P­ 14 CUL 3361 06 P­ 15 CUL P­ 17 CUL P­ 18 CUL WIPP­ 12 CUL WIPP­ 13 CUL 905.7 1 WIPP­ 18 CUL WIPP­ 19 CUL WIPP­ 21 CUL WIPP­ 22 WIPP­ 25 (PIP) 3058.47 .­ .­ ­MSL­ M 926 22. 914 25, ' 1026 62/ 1026 77/ 1025 4 5 / 904 6 8 / 916 23/ 906 60/ 957 42/ 925 2 5 / 925 20/ 960 28/ 940 7 3 / 4 5 8 0 4 922 9 d 930 oo/ 929 9 5 / 936 jd 914 4 4 923 74f 962 1w 933 82/ 913 d 913 38/ 922 7 4 908 11/ 911 71/ 911 73 911 72' 908 1 2 / 908 11/ 909 2 2 1 905 9170l/ 902 4a/ 1006 d 932 4&/ 410 44 910 39/ 910 60 910 6 4 1 910 4 2 / 909 0 4 1 962 44/ 924 07/ 918 72 923 O J 432 2 2 1 WIPP­ 25 (ANNULUS) /' WiPP­ 26 WIPP­ 27 (PIP) / WiPP­ 29 "PP­ 30 (PIP) `wasp­ i wasp­ 2 wasp­ 3 wasp4 wOSP­ 6a ViQSP­ 5 `rVQSP­ 6 h4AG CUL CUL RUS SAL CUL cuc CUL CUL CUL CUL CUC cui DL 3211.39 3153 20 3249 21 2978 26 3 2 9 05 3419.20 3463.90 3590 30 w 3 00 3384.40 3363 80 3364 70 3178 98 03/ 08/ 99` 13.49/ 03/ 08/ 96 11.1 1/ 0 3 0 6 1 9 ~1 3 :Z d 0311019 11.11/ 03/ 10/ 96 lo& 03m99 10.55/ 03i10196 11 0 2 / 156.68/ 1 3 3 .0 9 I 1 42/ 266 26/ 34 18/ 4 6 6 .7 9 364 4 J 350.50 1 6 5 .d 0 o d 0 *d 0 4 2 5 5 2 0 8 1 0 4 2 1 0.00 0 2 1 1 0 .2 y O .t l / 0.18/ 1 5 6 .6 4 299.7 447.7 165.68 3080 40 3024.45 / 3054 93 / 2986.84/ 3066.72 / 3053. TS f 3013 81 / 301331/ 3199.02/ CHECKPRINT AEC­ I AEC­ 7 AEC­ T AEG? AEC­ 7 AEGt AEC­ T AEC­ 7 AEC­ 7 AECI AEC­ 7 nEG7 CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL CUL 3657 25 3657 25 3657.25 3657.25 3657 25 3657 25 3657 25 3657 25 3657 25 3657.25 3657.25 3657 25 04/ 15198 031 398 0611 1/ 90 07115198 08112l98 09l10198 10114198 1 Ill 1198 lrn7198 Oll1359 02/ 08/ 99 Q3110/ 99 06.12 06.00 06.05 1052 06~ 23 11.58 06'14 0930 11.06 06: 10 r2: zs 07­ W 619 04 6: 8.89 618.94 619.01 619.22 619.24 619.13 619 54 619.32 619.52 619.49 619.44 0.98 0 98 0 98 0.98 0.98 0 98 0 98 0 98 0 98 0.98 0.98 0.98 618 06 617 91 61 7.96 618 03 618 24 618 26 618 15 618 56 618.34 618.54 618.51 61846 188.38 3039.19 18834 303934 188.35 3039.29 188 30 303922 188.44 3039.01 18845 303899 188 41 3039.10 18854 3038.69 18847 30Jg. 91 188.53 3038.7l 188 52 3038 74 188 51 3038.79 926.35 926.39 426.35 926.29 926.28 926.32 926.19 926.28 926.20 926.21 926.22 926.3.~ I I AEC­ 7, CULEBRA I i ' ­O D , i t I i 31y400~ . Sam: .i 1 ......... ........ .......... ..i I 4 ........ ..... .... ;I : .. ... ................................................. . J m w j 1 :f ;E i ........................................................................................... I 2 30* 1m?. ... ._..... .­ I `I `L , 8 w .m !.. .... ........................................................................................... 1 jnow .................................................................. ­m i .. .. ! : .......................................................................................................... .....­...­. .. ! ................................................................................... _..­. I i I w ' ­D A E ' 7 : .............. I ;I . xnS53oi l l /l t N 1m7m OllrvsD OMIy90 cw& s9( 0 ~y .q c% 3% Wii. SU 0717598 WlZ98 , I PAGE i OF a0 WATERLEVEL ELE'IATION UPDATE MARCH 1955 ZONE CAS" OAT€ TIME DEPTH ADJUST ADJUSTEC ADJUSTED WATER ELEVATION 'MU NUMBER ELEL ATION TO TO DEPTH DEPTH LEVEL a c 3537 :o EIC 3531 :a EIC 3537 10 BIC 3537 10 0: c 3533 70 EiC 3531 10 8; c 3537 10 BiC 3337 10 BfC 3537 IO e/ c 3537 t o IIC 3537 10 0 x 3537 10 04 15/ 98 06. '11198 07! 15/ 98 OP'10198 10.14/ 98 11 ,'09/ 9a 12'07198 OtiW99 OZ08/ 99 03; 08/ 99 os. 13/ 98 os: iu9a 07.15 06: 43 07 00 11: 18 07: 16 12: 21 07: 02 11: 36 11: 36 0632 12: 02 11: 43 549 04 548 55 547.91 546 66 545 62 544 54 543 27 542 28 540 74 539 70 537 58 538 61 0 00 549 94 167 62 0 00 548 95 167 32 0.00 547 91 167.00 0.00 546.66 166 62 000 545.62 16630 0 00 543 27 165 59 165 29 0.00 542.28 0.00 540.74 164 82 0.00 53970 164 50 0.00 538.61 164 t 7 0 00 537.58 16385 0 00 544.54 165 9a 2987 f 6 2988.15 2989. i 9 2990.44 2991.40 2992.56 2993.83 2994.112 2996.36 2997.40 2998.49 2999.52 910 49 915 79 411 11 911.49 911.80 912.13 91252 912.82 913 29 91161 9 t 3.94 914.15 AEC­ 8, BELL CANYON , I YIym . .. ... . .. . ... . . 3x230 ­ PAGE 2 OF 80 Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Annual Site Environmental Report Calendar Year 1997 DOEIWIPP 98­ 2225 Issue Date: September 29, 1998 1997 Annual Site Environmental Report DOElWlPP 98­ 2225 TABLE OF CONTENTS LIST OF TABLES iii ­) .......................................................... LIST OF FIGURES ......................................................... iv ACRONYMSAND ABBREVIATIONS ........................................... xi 3 W CHAPTER 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................ 1­ 1 1.1 Compliance Summary .......................................... 1­ 2 1.1.1 National Environmental Policy Act Annual Mitigation Report ....... 1­ 2 1.1.2 Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act Title I l l Emergency and Hazardous Chemical Inventory ................ 1­ 2 1 . 1.3 New Mexico Air Quality ................................... 1­ 2 1 . 1.4 Environmental Compliance Assessments ..................... 4­ 3 1.1.5 IS0 14001 Environmental Management Systems ............... 13 1 . 1.6 Voluntary Release Assessment Program at Selected Solid Waste Management Units at WlPP ................................ 1­ 3 1.1.7 Federal Acquisition, Recycling, and Waste Prevention ........... 1­ 3 Environmental Monitoring Program Information ....................... 1­ 4 1.2. I Environmental Monitoring Plan ............................. 14 Environmental Radiological Program Information ..................... 1­ 4 1.3.1 Airborne Particulate Sampling .............................. 1­ 5 1.3.2 Soil Sampling ........................................... 1­ 5 1.3.3 Groundwater ........................................... ?a 1.3.4 Surface Water and Sediment Sampling ....................... 1­ 6 1.3.5 Biotic Sampling ......................................... 1­ 7 Nonradiological Environmental Monitoring Information ................. $­ 7 1.4.1 Land Management ....................................... 1­ 8 1.4.2 Meteorology ............................................ 1­ 8 1.4.3 Wildlife Population Monitoring .............................. 1­ 8 1.4.4 Reclamation of Disturbed Lands ............................ ?­ 9 1.5 QualityAsscnrance ............................................ 1­ 10 1.2 1.3 1.4 CHAPTER2 INTRODUCTION .............................................. 2­ 1 Description of the WlPP Project ................................... 2­ 1 WlPP Property Areas ..................................... 2­ 2 Demographics Within the Affected Environment ................ 2­ 3 2.1 2.1.1 2.1.2 CHAPTER 3 COMPLIANCE SUMMARY ...................................... 3­ 1 3.1 Compliance Overview .......................................... 3­ 1 Statutes and Regulations Applicable to WlPP ........................ 3­ 1 3.3 Compliance Status ............................................. 3­ 2 Liability Act ............................................. 3­ 2 3.3.2 Federal Acquisition. Recycling. and Pollution Prevention ......... 3 3 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act ..................... 3­ 3 National Environmental Policy Act ........................... 3­ 5 3.3.5 Clean Air Act ........................................... 3­ 6 3.3.6 Clean Water Act .................................... .. . 3­ 8 Safe Drinking Water Act ................................... 3­ 9 National Historic Preservation Act .......................... 3­ 10 3.3.9 Hazardous Materials Transportation Act ..................... 3­ 72 3.3.10 Packaging and Transportation of Radioactive Materials ......... 3­ 13 3.2 3.3.1 Comprehensive Environmental Response. Compensation. and 3.3.3 3.3.4 3.3.7 3.3.8 1997 Annual Site Environmental Report DOEMliPP 98­ 2225 3.4 Other Significant Accomplishments and Ongoing Compliance Activities ... 3­ 14 3.4.1 Environmental Compliance Assessment Program .............. 3­ 14 3.4.2 Site Environmental Management Program .................... 3­ 15 3.4.3 IS0 14000 ­ Standards for Environmental Management ......... 3­ 15 3.4.4 Pollution Prevention Committee ............................ 3­ 16 3.4.5 Environmental Training .................................. 3­ 17 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM INFORMATION ...................... 4­ 1 4.1 Environmental Monitoring Plan ................................... 4­ 1 4.2 Baseline Data ................................................ 4­ 1 4.3 Land Management Programs .................................... 4­ 2 4.3.1 Land Management and Environmental Compliance .............. 4­ 3 4.3.2 Wildlife Population Monitoring .............................. 4­ 3 4.3.3 Reclamation of Disturbed Lands ............................ 4­ 6 4.3.4 Oil and Gas Surveillance .................................. 4­ 7 CHAPTER 5 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT .................. 5­ 1 Airborne Gross AlphalBeta ...................................... 5 1 Airborne Particulate ........................................... 5­ 18 SoilSamples ................................................ 5­ 32 Surface Water ............................................... 5­ 43 Groundwater ............................................... 5­ 56 Sediments .................................................. 5­ 56 Biota ...................................................... 5­ 68 Trend Analyses .............................................. 5­ 77 CHAPTER 6 ENVIRONMENTAL NONRADIOCOGICAL PROGRAM INFORMATION .... 6­ 1 6.1 Principal Functions of Nonradiological Sampling ...................... 6­ 1 6.2 Meteorology .................................................. 6­ 1 6.2.1 Climatic Data ........................................... 6­ 1 6.2.2 Wind Direction and Wind Speed ............................ 6­ 2 Volatile Organic Compounds Monitoring ............................ 6­ 2 6.4 Seismic Activity ............................................... 6­ 7 6.5 Liquid Effluent Monitoring ....................................... 6­ 7 6.3 CHAPTER 7 GROUNDWATER PROTECTION ................................. 7­ 1 CHAPTER 8 QUALITY ASSURANCE ...................................... .. . 8­ 1 8.1 Sample Collection Methodologies .............. .................. 8­ 1 Revision of Procedures ......................................... 8­ 2 8.3 interlaboratory Comparisons ..................................... 8­ 2 Analytical Laboratory Quality Assurance and Quality Control ............ 8­ 7 8.5 Data Handling ................................................ 8­ 7 8.6 Records Management ........................................... 8­ 7 CHAPTER9 REFERENCES ............................................... 9­ 1 8.2 8.4 APPENDIX A . LOCATION CODES ........................................... A­ 1 APPENDIX B . CONCENTRATIONS OF ALPHA AND BETA ACTIVITIES IN AIR PARTICULATE .............................................. B­ 1 a ii 1997 Annual Site Environmental Report DOWJPP 98­ 2225 CHAPTER 7 GROUNDWATER PROTECTION Current groundwater monitoring activities at WIPP are outlined in the Groundwater Monitoring Program Plan and Procedure Manual (WP 02­ 1, Revision 3). The plan is a QA document that contains program plans for each of the activities performed by ground­ water monitoring personnel. In addition, WP 02­ 1 provides detailed pr­ dures for performing specific activities such as pumping system installations, fiqfjfparameter analyses and documentation, and QA records manage­ ment. Groundwater monitoring activities are also defined in the EMP. The objective of the groundwater monitoring program is to determine the physical and chemical characteristics of groundwater; maintain surveillance of groundwater levels surrounding the WiPP facility, both before and throughout the operational lifetime of the facility; and futfili the requirements of the RCRA Part B permit application and DOE Order 5400.1. Background water quality data were collected from 1985 through the 1990 sampling period to futfill the requirements of DOE Order 5400. A as reported in DOENVIPP 92­ 013, "Background Water Quality Characterization Report for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant" In the latter part of 1994 seven new wells were drilled (Figures 7.5 through 7.11) in anticipation of the RCRA permitting process. Background data were collected from these wells from 1995 through 1997 and reported in DOUWIPP 98­ 2285, Waste isolation Pilot Plant RCRA Background Groundwater Quality Baseline Report." This background data will be compared to water quality data collected throughout the opera­ tional life of the facility. Preoperational data gathered in the interim period will be used to strengthen the background data, to evaluate the need to make adjustments to comparison criteria, and to determine future regulatory needs and land­ use decisions. The data obtained by the WQSP in 1997 supported two major programs at WIPP: (1) the Groundwater Monitoring Program. in compliance with 40 CFR Q 264 and (2) perfQrmance assessment in compliance with 4f& FR § 'IS% Each of these programs requiresa' unique set of analyses and data. Particular sample needs are defined by each pr­ m. In addition to the characterization of grounhater, the WQSP supported radio­ nuclide monitoring for the WID Environmental Analysis and Compliance Section. Results of radionuclide sampling are discussed in Chapter 5. Representatives from the EEG were on hand at selected sampling events to collect samples for independent evaluation. The WIPP site lies within the Pews Valley section of the Southern Great Plains physiographic province (Powers et at., 1978). Geologic and lithologic descn'ptions of the area surrounding the site can be found in documents such as the EMP, the Groundwater Protection Management Program Plan (DOENVIPP 96­ 2162), and USGS 83­ 4016 (Mercer, 1983). 'Industries in the vicinity that could potentially contribute to the pollution of the groundwater are potash mining, oil and gas explorationlproduction, and agriculture. The Culebra is the most significant water­ bearing unit within the vicinity of WIPP. No known hydrologic connection exists between the repository horizon and the Culebra. Surveillance of hydrological characteristics in the Culebra provides data that can be used to detect changes in water characterization. It also provides additional data for use in hydra­ logic models designed to predict long­ term performance of the repository. Groundwater surface elevation data is gathered from 77 well bores; five of which are equipped with production­ inflated packers to allow groundwater level surveillance of more than one producing zone through the same well bore (Figure 7.2). Groundwater quality data were gathered from six wells completed in the Culebra member o f the Rustler formation and one well completed in the Dewey Lake formation (Figure 7.1). The 1997 Annual Site Environmental Report DOEMliPP 98­ 2225 water quality sampling process has been developed using logistics from groundwater wells originally constwcted for characterization, not intended for groundwater monitoring activities. Seven wells were drilled in the latter part of 1994 constructed for the explicit purpose of gathering water quality data. Thesgwells are constructed with fiberglass casing and screens that will not bias sample collection. Similar sampling protocols to those used in the past for wells drilled for resource evaluation and site geologic characterization were used through CY 1997. More effiaent sampling methods are being evaluated and should be phased in during CY 1998. Sampling episodes are referred to as a "sampling round." Each sampling round con­ sists of the collection of two types of samples: (1) serial samples and (2) final samples. Serial samples are taken periodically while the well is being purged. Key physical and chemical parameters (known as field parameters) are analyzed and compared with past serial sampling data, when available, until a chemical steady state has been reached. A chemical steady state is defined as f 5 percent of the average of the three to five preceding para­ meter measurements made on the final day of serial sampling from preceding sampling rounds. Stabilition of these field parameters is a function of purging and is used as an indi­ cator to determine if the groundwater is representative of the zona, bdng sampled. A %a1 sample is collected when it has been determined that the pumped groundwater has achieved a representative state. The sample is then sent off site to a contract laboratory for analysis. Groundwater monitoring activities during CY 1997 included Groundwater Quality Sampling and Groundwater Level Surveillance. Groundwater Qualitv SamDling Sampling for groundwater quality was performed semiannually at seven well sites during CY 1997 (Figure 7.1). The wells were 7­ 2 serially sampled as soon as possible after the pump was turned on to better observe early chemical reactions to pumping. Field analysis for Eh, pH, specific gravity, specific conduc­ tance, alkalinity, chloride, divalent cations, and total iron were performed on a periodic basis during the serial sampling. These field para­ meters were used as indicators, during the purging process to better determine when the fonation water being pumped had reached a representative state. Normally this process ­& quired four to seven days to complete. Following the field analysis of the final serial sample, samples were cokcted and shipped to an independent, contracted, laboratory for analysis. Parameters of art. alysis by the contracted laboratory include the groundwater monitoring list in Appendix IX of 40 CFR Q 264 and those indicator parameters wmrnon to the Culebra member of the Rustler as listed in Table 7.1. WlPP has not received waste; thekfore no hazardous constituent has been introduced to the environment as a result of WIPP opera­ tions. Data collected provide background information. The total gallons of water removed from the Culebra as a resutt of groundwater surveillance activity was approximately 44,318 gallons throughout the year. During the same period 10,962 gallons of water were removed from the Dewey lake formation. Water quality of the Culebra sampled near WlPP is naturally poor and is not suitable for human consumption or for agricultural purposes. The groundwater of the Culebra is considered to be class Ill waters by €PA guidelines. The water contains naturally high concentrations of total dissolved solids and mineral constituents primarily of chloride, calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium (Mercer, 1983). The high total of dissolved solids concentration has historically posed problems for laboratories performing analysis because the water interferes with the normal operation of standard laboratory equip­ ment such as Atomic Absorption or Inductively Coupled Plasma, causing estimated quantitation limits to be inconsistent. 1997 Annual Site Environmental Report DOEMIIPP 98­ 2225 Water quality measurements performed in the Dewey Lake fotmation indicate that the waters are considerably fresher. Samples collected from the Dewey Lake formation are suitable for livestock consumption having TDS values below 10,000 mg/ L. These waters are classi­ fied as Class II waters according to €PA Guidance. Saturation of the Dewey Lake Formation in the area of WlPP is discontinuous and no hydrologic connection has been established that would indicate that WIPP activities would have an Impact on the Dewey Lake. Sampling during calendar year 1997 marked the end of data collection for baseline purposes for the RCRA permitting process. A detailed baseline report entitled 'Waste Isolation Pilot Plant RCRA Background Groundwater Quality Report" was issued just prior to the Issuance of the 1997 ASER. To summarize; this report contains calculated background concentrations for groundwater­ quality parameters from seven monitoring wells that are located within the boundaries of the WlPP site. From 1995 to 1997, the GMP collected groundwater samples from the Culebra and Dewey Lake water­ bearing zones in the area of the WIPP site. The GMP has sampled 7 WlPP monitoring wells five separate times. Groundwater was sampled during the GMP from the Culebra Dolomite Member of the Rustler Formation and the Dewey Lake. The GMP focused primarily on the characteriation of Culebra Dolomite groundwater, since the Culebra is the first continuous water­ bearing zone above the waste repository horizon and is the most transmissive hydrologic unit in the WlPP area. Because Culebra groundwater chemistry is extremely variable across the WIPP site, areawide background values for groundwater constituents could not be established. Instead, background groundwater quality was defined for each individual well. A minimum of four separate rounds of data from a well was required to establish the background ground­ water quality at that well. Preliminary analysis categorized GMP data into three groups based on the frequency of detection and the proximity of detections to MDLs. The three groups are as follows: Major Cations and Anions. Constituents that collectively make up greater than 99 percent of the dissolved solids. These constituents are generatly detected at concentrations that are well above the MOL. Minor Cations, Trace Metals, Anions, and Indicator Parameters. Constituents with concentrations that are generally less than 10 mglL in groundwater. A substantial amount of the data are below the MDL, and those detected concentrations are generally close to the MDL. Organic Compounds. Include VOCs, SVOCs, pesticides, and PCBs (all of the parameters induded in 40 CFR 5 264, Appendix IX). Very few detections of these compounds were observed in GMP data. Given the three data groups defined above, background concentrations were determined and reported in the following manner: A 95th UTL or 95th percentile confidence interval based on the distribution type was computed for every major constituent from each well. Thus, the expected background concentration for a major constituent at a given well is represented by a 95 percent confidence intewal. The 95th UTL for most minor constituents could not be calculated due to the large number of NDs; thus, the background concentration range for a minor constituent at a given well is represented by the observed 95th percentile concentration range based on MDLs for that parameter at that well. Prior to the determination of background concentration values, the GMP data were evaluated for trends. Trend analysis was necessary to determine if any concentrations 7­ 3 1997 Annual Site Environmental Report DOEMllPP 98­ 2225 were changing with time due to natural (or non­ WlPP related) causes. The procedure used to determine background water quality is depen­ dent on, or somewhat controlled by, the natura of the concentration/ time relationship. In­ general, temporal trends in concentrations were not found in #$ e GMP data, and the procedure used to establish background water quality reflected this finding. I Additional sampling rounds at each GMP well may provide more insight into potentiat trends in water quality. The GMP data were also evaluated for potential outliers. Potential outliers were evaiuated through visual examination only. If a value appeared to be an outlier by visual examination, an additional observation was performed to estimate if that value was within G O percent of its nearest neighbor or if it was due to routine analytical uncertainty. Only four values were actually excluded from the major and minor constituent data set prior to the establishment of background concentration summary statistics and box­ and­ whisker plots {Figures 7.12 through 7.72). The following are the specific findings and conclusions of the baseline study: Some constituents at several wells, including WQSP­ 1, WQSP­ 2, WQSP­ 3, WQSP­ 5, WQ8P­ 6, and WQSP­ GA show potential concentration trends However, in almost every case the trend is within the range of expected analytical uncertainty, or the trend is not supported by charge­ balance considerations or by similar trends in other constituents, such as TDS. 9 Wells WQSP­ 4, WQSP­ 5, and WQSP­ 6 exhibit concentrations of several para­ meters that decrease significantly from the first to the second or later sampling rounds. This may indicate that the first sample is not representative, possibly due to incomplete well development and that the wells are "cleaning up" from the initial well installation process. Background groundwater quality was successfully defined for seven wells. Back­ ground concentrations for major and minor cations, anions, and indicator parameters were e@ blished for Culebra Dolomite and Dewey Lake groundwater. Although the background concentrations of many minor constituents are uncertain, the baseline report documents the "expected" values for these constituents, if similar analytical tech­ niques are used in future sampling efforts. Hazardous organic compounds are not present in groundwater in the vicinity of the WlPP site. Detections of these compounds are very infrequent, and the majority of detected compounds are typical laboratory contaminants as defined by the EPA. Some of the occurrences may also be related to well installation or sampling practices. Specific details on statistical methods and formulas used to reach these conclusions can be found in DOEMllPP 98­ 2285, "Waste Isolation Pilot Plant RCRA Background Groundwater Quality Base line Report." Groundwater Level Surveillance In October 1988, WlPP was tasked with conducting a groundwater level surveillance program. Seventy­ seven well bores are used to perform surveillance of seven water­ bearing zones in the WlPP area. The two zones of primary interest are the Culebra and Magenta members of the Rustler formation. Fifty­ nine measurements are taken in the Culebra; and ten, in the Magenta. Three measurements each are taken in the Dewey Lake and Santa Rosa formations. Two measurements are taken in the Rustler/ Salado contact. One measurement each is taken in Bell Canyon, Forty­ niner, and an unnamed lower member. Locatiort& of groundwater level surveillance sites arszictured in Figure 7.2. Five well bores are configured to allow monitor­ ing of more than one formation. These are H­ 01 CulebralMagenta, H­ 03d Dewey Lake/ Forty­ niner, H­ 16 Dewey Lakehnnamed lower 7­ 4 1997 Annual Site Environmental Report DOElWtPP 98­ 2225 member, WIPP­ 25 CulebralMagenta, and WIPP­ 27 CulebralMagenta. Groundwater surface elevations in the vicinity of WlPP may be influenced by site activities such as pumping tests for site characterization, water quality sampling, or shaft sealing. Other influences on groundwater surface elevations may be caused by natural groundwater level fluctuations and industrial influences from agriculture, mining, and resource exploration. Groundwater elevation measurements in the Culebra indicate that the generalized directional flow of groundwater is north to south in the vicinity of WIPP (Figure 7.3). Regional groundwater levels taken ' in 43 Culebra observation wells with more than four data points for the year show increases in water levels occurred in 26 wells and 17 wells showed a decrease in water levels over the period of January 1997 through December 1997. During this period 23 wells had net water level increases or decreases of less than one foot Total fluctuation of more than one foot in groundwater levels occurred in 33 of the wells. Nine wells with fluctuations of more than one foot (WQSP­ 1 through WQSP­ 6, H­ 19b0, H­ 18, and H­ 14) may have been influenced by groundwater quality sampling activities. Four wells (ERDA [United States Energy Research and Development Administration]­ 9, WIPP­ 18, WIPP­ 19, WIPP­ 21, and WIPP­ 22) may have been influenced by site activities. Water level increases originating to the south of the site in the H­ 9 area and extending up gradient toward the site are currently unexplained. Studies are currently being conducted to try and explain the anomalies. Groundwater flow directions in' the Magenta appear to be generally from an east to west direction across the WIPP site (Figure 7.4). Regional groundwater level measurements taken in the Magenta dolomite indicate that water levels are increasing in wells located near the center of the site, while water levels near or outside the WlPP boundary appear to be relatively stable. One well H­ 01 has had anomalus water level increases and appears to be influencing the wells in the immediate vicinity (H­ 2bl and H­ 3bl). The cause is as yet undetermined. 7­ 5 1997 Annual Site Environmental Report DOEMllPP 98­ 2225 '­ A ­N­ Figure 7.1 ­ Water Quality Sampling Program Sample Wells ­ 1997 7­ 6 Attachment D. 3 Waste Activity Documents Reviewed c . Effective Date: o m 5197 WP 05­ WA. 02 Revision 0 WIPP Waste Information System Program Cognizant Section: Waste Operations Approved By: Cognizant Department: Operations Approved By: Jeff Cotton Signature on file C. E. Conway Signature on file WlPP Waste information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................................. iii 1 .O lNTRODUCTlON .................................................................................................... 1 2.0 SCOPE ................................................................................................................... 1 3.0 RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................................................... 2 3.1 Waste Operations .......................................................................................... 2 Resource Conservation and Recoverv Act Permittinq ................................... 4 Qualitv and Rewlatorv Assurance ................................................................ 4 Proiect Record Services ................................................................................. 4 h­ lformation Svstems Development ................................................................ 4 3.6 Technical Traininq ......................................................................................... 5 TRU waste Proqrams .................................................................................... 5 Department of Enercrv/ Car~ sbad Area Office.. ................................................ 5 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.7 3.8 4.0 ACCESS ...................................................................................................... 5 4.1 User Access ................................................................................................... 6 5.0 W l S COMPONENT? ........................................................................................... 6 5.1 Administration ................................................................................................ 7 5.1 .1 Administrative Tables .......................................................................... 7 5.1 2 User Administration ............................................................................. 7 5.1.3 Data ~~~i n i s t r a t i o n ............................................................................. 7 5.1 ­4 Security ................................................................................................ 7 5.2 Characterization Module ................................................................................ 8 5.3 Certification Module ....................................................................................... 8 5.4 Shippino Module ............................................................................................ 9 5.5 hventorV Module ........................................................................................... 9 6.0 US" THE 9 6.1 Electronic Data Entrv ­ Characterization Module ........................................... 9 6.2 Database Use in APProvinQ the WSPF ............................................ 10 6.3 Manual Data Entrv ­ Characterization Module ............................................. 11 6.4 Review and Approval of Characterization Data Entries ............................... 11 6.5 Electronic Data Entw ­ Certification Module ................................................ 11 6.6 Manual Data Entrv ­ Certification Module .................................................... 12 6.7 Review and Approval of Certification Data Entries ...................................... 12 6.8 Electronic Data Entw ­ ShiPPinq Module ..................................................... 12 6.9 Manual Data EntrV ­ ShiPPina Module ......................................................... 13 6.10 Review and Approval of Shippina Data Entries ........................................... 13 6.1 1 Shipment Receipt Data ................................................................................ 13 6.12 Barcode Data Check of Shipment ­ Received Containers ........................... 13 6.13 Shipment Approval ....................................................................................... 14 6.14 Recordins Overpack Information ................................................................. 14 ................................................................................................. WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 6.1 5 Barcode Data Entry ­ Location of DrumlAssemblies .................................... 15 6.1 6 Container Disposal Data .............................................................................. 15 7.0 SETTING UP OTHER SITES TO USE THE WWlS .............................................. 15 8.0 EXCEPTIONS AND UNRESOLVED SAFETY QUESTION DETERMINATIONS.. 16 9.0 DATA CHANGE CONTROL 17 .................................................................................. 10.0 W l S PROGRAM REPORTS 17 17 I O . 1 Printing Standardized Reports ..................................................................... 38 10.2 Shipment Summaw Report ~ ......................................................................... 10.3 Nuclide Report 18 18 10.4 Waste Emplacement Report ........................................................................ 10.5 Headspace Gas Concentration Report ........................................................ 18 19 10.6 Requlatow Reporting: Biennial Reporting Input Report .............................. .............................................................................. ............................................................................................. 11 .O W l S PROGRAM RECORDS 19 19 11 .I Backup and Archivins Requirements ........................................................... ............................................................................. 12.0 SITE­ DERIVED WASTE 29 ........................................................................................ 13.0 TRAINING FOR THE WWlS PROGRAM 20 ............................................................. 14.0 REFERENCES 20 ...................................................................................................... Attachment 1 ­ WWlS Access Request Form 22 ................................................................ 23 Attachment 2 ­ WWlS User Access Authorization Levels ............................................. 24 Attachment 3 ­ WWlS Access Notification Form ........................................................... Attachment 4 ­ Shipping Review of Cellulose, Plastics and Rubber ............................. 25 iii WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVlATlONS CAO Carlsbad Area Office CFR Code of Federal Regulations DOE Department of Energy EPA Environmental Protection Agency ID Identification ISD Information Systems Development NMED New Mexico Environment Department NRC Nuclear Regulatory Commission Q& RA Quality and Regulatory Assurance RCRA SWB Standard Waste Box TRAMPAC TRU Transuranic TRUPACT­ ti voc Volatile Organic Compound WAC Waste Acceptance Criteria WID Waste Isolation Division WlPP Waste Isolation Pilot Plant WSPF Waste Stream Profile Form W l S WIPP Waste Information System Resource Conservation and Recovery Act TRUPACT­ II Authorized Methods for Payload Control Transuranic Package Transporter Model II iv WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 1.0 INTRODUCTION This Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) Waste Information System (WWIS) Program describes and details the methods to be used to implement the WWlS database activities. The WWlS is specified and required by the Compliance Certification Application for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (DOEKAO 1996­ 21 84, Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations [CFR], Section 191 ); the Transuranic Waste Characterization Quality Assurance Program Plan (CAO 94­ 1 01 0); the WIPP Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Part B Permit Application, Chapter C, Waste Analysis Plan (DOEMIPP 91­ 005); and the Waste Acceptance Criteria for the WlPP (DO ENVl PP­ 069). 2.0 SCOPE This WWlS Program addresses the entire range of activities performed by the WWIS. Data received by the WIPP for waste acceptance purposes is used to determine compliance with t h e RCRA Part B Permit Application and 40 CFR 0194 requirements. Since no physical analysis of waste will take place at WIPP, the data management, review, and approval processes are critical to ensure WIPP's regulatory compliance. The W l S is an on­ line database system used to: Record waste container characterization and certification data supplied by the transuranic (TRU) waste generators, as required by the WIPP Waste Acceptance Criteria (WAC), to gain acceptance for disposal at WlPP Print a Summary Report that provides a listing of waste container characterization data for use in review of Waste Stream Profile Forms (WSPF) associated with the container characterization data Provide computerized hold and approval points for the WlPP data administrator regarding WlPP acceptance of container characterization and certification data Communicate the approval/ rejection status of characterization and certification data to the generatorkhipper Record proposed shipment configuration details from the generatorkhipper for containers that have received WIPP approval of characterization data Provide a hold and approval point for the WlPP data administrator to approve or reject the proposed shipment 1 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 Communicate the approvaI/ rejection status of proposed shipments to the g eneratorlsh i p per Provide a Shipment Report for WlPP personnel to verify the "as received" shipment against the information listed on the manifest accompanying the shipment, and to verify that containers received are those approved by WlPP for shipment Record the disposal location of the containers when they are placed in the underground disposal area Record (automatically) any changes made to WWIS data, record changes, and provide a Change Log Report to identify changes that have been made Provide required reports, which are entered into the facility operating record and kept as a quality record for the lifetime of the facility The above functions require the interaction of several groups within Waste Operations, and with generatodshipper sites and others, such as internal and external review/ oversight groups. ­his program defines the responsibilities and activities for each group of WWlS users at WIPP. 3.0 RESPONSIBILITIES 3.1 Waste Operations The Waste Operations Section is the organization with cognizance over the waste acceptance and emplacement process at WIPP. The review and approval of waste data is coordinated by Waste Operations and all records generated by the review and approval process are controlled by Waste Operations until transferred to Project Records Services. The WWlS data administrator is responsible for establishing access authorization to the WWlS for generatodshipper sites; approving user characterization data, certification data, proposed shipping data, and maintenance of Administrative Reference Tables used in WWlS operation; deleting generator data records when requested by the generator (the WWIS Change Log Records record deletions archived as a part of the overall database process); and assisting users with problems associated with the application. 2 WIPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 The data administrator is also responsible for the following activities regarding WWIS operation: D D * I D Determine the need for access, assign user identifications and enter them into the W l S Determine acceptability of waste container data submitted by the generator in the WWlS Characterization Module for WSPF approval Designate approved WSPF numbers in the WWlS Administration Tables Determine acceptability of waste container data submitted by the generator in the WWlS Certification Module Enter needed data into €he Reference Data Tables of the WWlS Process WSPF( s) to the requirements of the Waste Stream Profile Form Review and Approval Program (WP 05­ WA. 03) Produce reports from the WWlS Enter approved changes to the W I S data Assist generators with data entry problems Serve as the contact point at WlPP for the generator sites regarding data transmittal and submittal Hazardous Waste Operations is responsible for: Initially receiving the TRUPACT­ II shipment Signing the manifest Reviewing WWlS data to determine if it agrees with information on the Shipment Manifest Notifying the Waste Handling engineer of the manifest review results Resolving manifest discrepancies by working with the WWlS data administrator and the generatodshipper 3 WlPP Waste information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 The Waste Handling engineer is responsible for two primary entry inputs to the WWIS: Recording acceptance of the shipment in the WWlS after verifying that the correct containers were received, based on shipment information in the WWIS and Shipment Manifest information Recording off­ loaded container information and container disposal locations ' 3.2 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Permittinq The RCRA Permitting Section reviews each WSPF and the associated Characterization Data Summary Report, then completes a checklist to document that review per WP 05­ WA. 03. A specific focus of this review is to ensure that the requirements of the WlPP Waste Analysis Plan are properly implemented. RCRA Permitting also performs periodic reviews (on a selected or "as necessary" basis) of generator waste container characterization data entered into the WWIS. Cognizant R C W Permitting personnel have access to the WWIS database for use in review of administrative information, waste characterization data, certification data, decay analysis, change log, inventory, and regulatory reporting. 3.3 Qualitv and Recrulatorv Assurance Quality and Regulatory Assurance (Q& RA) participates in the review and approval activities for the WSPF to verify that the submittal is complete and properly signed. On a selective basis, Q& RA will review waste container data submitted to WIPP through the WWlS by the generatorkhipper sites to determine if the generator data entered into the WWIS is complete. 3.4 Proiect Record Services Project Record Services is responsible for t h e retention of records generated by the WlPP waste acceptance process. Some of the records generated by this process will be retained at the facility as a part of the operational record until closure of the facility. Other records will be sent to records storage. Criteria to define the record retention times are listed in the approved Records Inventory and Disposition Schedule and the implementing procedures for each document. 4 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 3.5 Information Svstems DeveloDment Information Systems Development (ISD) is the support organization for the VWVIS. ISD is responsible for keeping the WWlS functional and facilitating electronic communications between WlPP and the generator sites. ISD also provides a secure area for the WWlS server; performs nightly, quarterly, and annual backups of system records; and maintains network communications. 3.6 Technical Traininq The Human Resources Technical Training Section is responsible for controlling and maintaining the W I S Qualification Card. The qualification cards are used as part of the WlPP qualification program and will be maintained, controlled, and retained per the implementing procedures. The Waste Operations data administrator (the Subject Matter Expert) will aid Technical Training personnel in the development of the WWlS Qualification Card. 3.7 TRU Waste Proarams The Engineering TRU Waste Programs Section provides the cognizant engineer (configuration manager) for the WWlS Program. The cognizant engineer is responsible for providing design and configuration management for the WWlS database and represents the primary source of engineering interface for the WWIS. Configuration management is addressed in approved Waste Isolation Division (WID) management procedures. 3.8 Department of EnerclvlCarlsbad Area Office The Carlsbad Area Office manager is responsible for granting, or suspending, a site's authority to certify TRU waste to the WAC (certification authority) and to use the TRUPACT­ II and Remote­ Handled TRU 72­€ 3 Cask (transportation authority) based upon an assessment of their documented TRU waste program and its implementation. After approving the required generatorkhipper plans, the CAO, together with the managing and operating contractor, will perform certification audits of the generator/ shipper sites to assess the implementation of, and compliance with, the approved plans. Based upon acceptable results of the certification audit, the CAO will grant TRU waste certification authority and transportation authority to the site. The CAO is also responsible for review and approvalldenial of generatorlshipper site requests for exceptions (variances) to the WlPP operations and safety requirements. The CAO cannot approve exceptions to requirements that are confrored by others, such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission WRC), for transportation or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and ine New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) for the RCRA component of TRU­ mixed waste, without first obtaining changes to the controlling permits. 5 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 4.0 WWlS ACCESS The hardware for the W l S system is located in a controlled access area within the WlPP facility. Computer access to the W l S database is controlled by means of user identifications and passwords assigned to users having a need to use the waste information system. A user must obtain authorization from the WlPP data administrator before being allowed to log onto the electronic system. Prior to granting user access, the data administrator will instruct potential users in the proper use of the WWIS. When the authorization is granted, read/ write access restrictions are also imposed on the user to ensure that the integrity of the data within the database is maintained. 4.1 User Access The WWlS data administrator receives requests for system access from users on the WWIS Access Request Form (Attachment I). Generatorkhipper sites must be certified by the CAOWIPP prior to entering waste data into the W l S for review by the WIPP. The data administrator reviews the WWlS Access Request Form and approves or disapproves the requested authorization reason for access (designated in Attachment 2), signs the WWlS Access Request Fom, and forwards the request to the Waste Operations manager for final approval. After obtaining the approval of the Waste Operations manager, the data administrator provides instruction to the requestor on the proper use of the WWIS, enters the access type onto the WWlS Access Request Form, and makes the necessary entries into the WWIS Administration Reference Tables to allow the user access to the WWIS. Access restrictions are imposed as defined in the Software Requirements Specification and the Software Design Description, and are documented on the approved WWlS Access Request Form. The data administrator will advise the user when the approved access to the WWlS has been established by providing the user with a copy of the signed WWlS Access Request Form. The signed W l S Access Request Form will be transmitted to the user as an attachment to the W l S Access Notification Form (Attachment 3). The data administrator will file a copy of the WWlS Access Notification Form and attached W I S Access Request Form in the WWlS project files. The data administrator will revoke any access privileges at the request of the user or Waste Operations manager by accessing the Administrative Reference Tables and inserting an access termination date equal to the date of revocation. 6 WIPP Waste information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 5.0 WlS COMPONENTS The W I S database is a complex, multifaceted database system designed to perform functions ranging from retaining simple data; providing a platform for the review/ approval of generator/ shipper sites waste information; tracking of waste containers by categories; combining containers into packages and shipments; and to verify emplacement location of the containers in the repository. To fulfill the variety of tasks assigned to the W I S , the database system is divided into several modules. These modules, other components, and organizationallindividual responsibilities are described below. 5.1 Administration 5.1.1 Administrative Tables The WWIS has an extensive library of Administration Tables. These tables, used by the data administrator, contain complexwide requirements specified in DOENVIPP­ 069 and CAO­ 94­ 1010. Also included in the tables are site­ specific information listed in CAO­ approved generatorlshipper site Quality Assurance Project Plans, Certification Plans, TRUPACT­ II Authorized Methods for Payload Control (TRAMPAC), and data supplied to WlPP regarding individual containers, waste streams, and shipping informat ion. 5.1.2 User Administration The user administration function is the responsibility of the Waste Operations data administrator. The data administrator is responsible for maintaining WWlS data pertaining to individual users of the system. This includes updating user data files (information about the users), setting up access for new users to the application, instructing personnel in the proper use of the W I S , assisting users with problems associated with the application, defining the extent of use of the system for each user, and deleting users from the application. 5.1.3 Data Administration The data administrator is responsible for determining user access to the data, administering Reference Tables used systemwide, producing reports from the Reference Tables, and logging changes. The WWlS is capable of producing several standardized and specialized reports concerning the waste data supplied by the generatorkhipper site. Internal and external requests for these reports will be processed by the data administrator on the basis of the nature of the request, the availability of resources to perform the request, and the approval of Waste Operations management. The data administrator updates tables containing limit and reference data and provides change information to the Change Log. 7 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 5.1.4 Security The Waste Operations data administrator controls access to the databases and data through passwords, and controls access to the data at the record level. AIf data transmitted between the W l S server located at the WlPP and the WWlS and elsewhere will be via the limited­ access Departmen1 of Enerav Business Network /DOE­ BN). Users are assigned access authorization levels as listed in Attachment 2. Users are only allowed to view data pertaining to their access authorization level and/ or site. 5.2 Characterization Module The Characterization Module allows the generatodshipper to enter specific container information to be used to validate the characterization activities of the generator site for the data summary on the WSPF submitted for WlPP approval. Approval of the WSPF will be required before waste containers associated with the waste stream can be approved and accepted. Required information fields for the characterization data input are indicated by a shaded entry box on the interactive input screen for manual input. For electronic data input, data information is defined in data structure tables included in the WWlS User's Guide. After the data passes the limit and edit checks and is reviewed by the W l S data administrator, it is considered "acknowledged" data. An entry is made by the WlPP data administrator, making the data available for viewing to the generator only through the Certification Module pull­ down screen. The generatodshipper is denied any further write access to the information fields of the Characterization Module at this point. This module has provisions to generate a WWlS Waste Characterization Data Report, which contains a listing of the characterization data for the containers covered by a WSPF. A copy of this report will be attached to the WSPF to support the review of the information. Container data not accepted by W l S in this module will not be retained by the WVVIS. A Bad Data Report will be created and will explain the reason( s) for rejection. Rejected data will require resubmittal to WlPP prior to further consideration. 5.3 Certification Module The Certification Module allows for generator transmittal and WlPP data administrator verification of submitted WAC data. All modifications to the data will be tracked in a Change Log. In this module, the data administrator will accept or reject certification 8 WIPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 data and provide verification reports. After acceptance of the submitted data, the WWlS will automatically generate an Acceptance Report. If the submitted Certification Module data is rejected, the data administrator will generate a Rejection Report and notify the generatorlshipper site. Required information fields for certification data input are indicated by a shaded entry box on the interactive input screen for manual input. For electronic data input, data information is defined in data tables included in the WWlS User's Guide. After the data passes the limit and edit checks and a review by the W l S data administrator, it is considered "acknowledged" data and an entry is made by the WIPP data administrator. The generatorkhipper is denied any further write access to the information fields of the Certification Module at this point. 5.4 Shitminu Module The Shipping Module allows the generatorlshipper to propose a shipment configuration for WIPP approval. The proposed shipment information is entered into the WWlS and subjected to data limit checks to determine if the shipping requirements of the TRAMPAC and WIPP WAC are met by the proposed shipment. After passing these electronic data checks, the shipping information is reviewed by WIPP operating personnel. If everything is in order, the shipment data is approved and the generatorlshipper may proceed with the shipment. This module generates the Shipment Summary Report used by Waste Operations to verify that the correct containers have been shipped. 5.5 lnventorv Module The inventory Data Module is designed for WIPP to record what containers have been received, the receipt date, and the disposal locations for those containers. This module generates the Container Emplacement Report, which will be kept as part of the facility operating record. The Inventory Data Module also generates other reports concerning the disposed waste inventory, including reports on nuclides, container data, headspace gas, and biennial information. 6.0 USING THE WWlS Each module and component described above requires input from several users, such as the generatorkhipper, data administrator, and others. From these modules and Administrative Tables, the WWIS has the capability of generating various reports to track the input from t h e generator/ shipper sites. These reports are listed and described 9 WIPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 in WP 05­ WA. 01, WlPP TRU Waste Data Management Plan. The methods to be employed in the completion of each module of the WWlS database are described and defined below. 6.1 Electronic Data Entry ­ Characterization Module Prior to review of generatorlshipper characterization data, the data administrator will ensure that the DOE/ CAO has granted certification and transportation authority to the generatorjshipper site as stated in Section 3.8. Generatorskhippers must notify the WWlS data administrator of new WSPF numbers prior to inputting Characterization Module container data associated with that profile number. After notification of the new numbers, the data administrator will enter the proposed WSPF numbers in the WWlS Administration Reference files, but will leave the approval date blank (indicating that the WSPF is not yet approved). No generatorlshipper site waste data will be accepted by the WWlS database until the data administrator has updated the Administrative Reference Tables to include the WSPF number. Electronic transfer of characterization data is granted to sites that have an electronic waste information system. The data from the user system must be formatted to be consistent with the WWlS data structures as listed in the WWlS User's Manual (SP­ WO­ WlS­ 002). Before data is transmitted, the user system formatting wit1 be verified to ensure integrity. The WWlS data administrator will transmit the system format and assist the user with the setup of the data structure. The WWlS system performs edit and range checks on the characterization data and identifies all errors by waste container identification number. After electronic transmittal of characterization data to the W I S , the generators/ shippers are only allowed to view their packages and/ or print error reports. After the characterization data has passed alf range and edit checks and has been approved by the Waste Operations data administrator, the shipper will receive a message to that effect. 6.2 WWlS Database Use in Amrovinu the WSPF The review and approval of WSPFs are governed by WlPP approved procedures. After receipt of the WSPF from the generator/ shipper site, Waste Operations routes a copy of each WSPF and associated WWlS Characterization Data Summary Reports from the WWlS to RCRA Permitting and Q& RA. The Summary Report provides reviewers with a listing of waste container characterization data associated with the WSPF. These organizations review the form against requirements of the WlPP Waste Analysis Plan, the Quality Assurance Program Plan, and the WlPP Quality Assurance Program Description. After the reviewers have completed their reviews, a meeting may be called by Waste Operations if any profile deficiencies are noted. Waste Operations interfaces with the 10 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 generatodshipper to resolve any noted deficiencies. After all WlPP reviewers concur that the WSPF is acceptable, Waste Operations notifies the generatorlshipper of the WSPF approval. The WlPP data administrator makes an approved date entry into the WWlS data Reference Tables, causing the program to recognize the approved profile number. This entry is necessary for the data to be accepted into the WWIS Certification Module. When the WSPF is routed for review, it is tracked by a routing slip and is recorded into a log of the WSPFs received by the WlPP in accordance with WP 05­ WA. 03. A critical part of waste stream approval is the WlPP RCRA­ Specific Generator Site Waste Screening and Acceptance Audit Program Plan, (WP 02­ PC. 01). After the initial audit and approval, annual audits are performed for sites shipping waste to WIPP. The data administrator ensures that the waste generator has successfully passed the scheduled CAO certification and WlPP RCRA­ specific audits and resolved any significant deficiencies before approving a WSPF from that site. 6.3 Manual Data Entrv ­ Characterization Module Manual characterization data entry access is granted to generatodshipper sites that have limited or small quantities of TRU waste, or that do not have an electronic information system but do have access to the WWlS database capabilities. Manual data entry allows a generatorlshipper site without an electronic waste information system to enter waste data directly into the various blocks of the characterization data entry screens. Although the manually entered data process is much slower than that of electronic data transfer, the entered waste data receives the same editllimit checks and reviews as electronic data transfers. Generatordshippers must notify the W l S data administrator of new WSPF numbers prior to inputting Certification Module container data associated with that profile number. After notification of the new WSPF numbers, the data administrator will enter the proposed numbers in the WWlS Administration Reference fifes, but will leave the approval date blank (indicating that the profile is not yet approved). No generatodshipper site waste data will be accepted by the WWlS database until the data admini strator has updat ed the Admin ist rat iv Refer ence Table S. e 11 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 6.4 Review and ADDroval of Characterization Data Entries The data administrator periodically reviews container Characterization Module data that have passed the WWlS datallimit checks. The review requirements are at the discretion of the data administrator but are primarily performed for consistencv with the Waste Stream Profile Form. After review of the data, the data administrator will indicate acceptance or rejection of each container characterization record on the acceptheject screen feature in the WWIS. If the record is rejected, the data administrator will input the reason for the rejection into the WWlS and notify the generator/ shipper of the reason for rejection. 6.5 Electronic Data Entrv ­ Certification Module The electronic transfer of certification data is granted to sites that have electronic waste information system capabilities. To use the WWlS electronic data option, the data from the user system must be formatted to be consistent with the WWlS data structures. Before data are transmitted, the user system formatting will be verified by acceptance testing of the generatorishipper electronic data system to ensure integrity and compatibility with the WlPP WWlS server. The WWlS system performs edit and range checks on the data and identifies errors by waste container identification number. After electronic transmittal of certification data to the WVVIS, generators/ shippers can only view their certification packages and/ or print error reports. After the data have passed all range and edit checks and received approval from the Waste Operations data administrator, the generator will receive an electronic message to document the approval. 6.6 Manual Data Entrv ­ Certification Module Manual certification data entry access is granted to generator/ shipper sites which have limited or small quantities of TRU waste or which do not have an electronic information system but do have WWIS database capabilities. Manual data entry allows a generator/ shipper site without access to an electronic waste information system to enter waste data directly into the various blocks of the WWlS Certification Module data entry screens. Although the manually entered data process is much slower than that of electronic data transfer, the entered waste data receives the same edit/ limit checks and reviews as electronic data transfers. This module is structured to accept only data that pertains to accepted waste stream profiles. This allows the generatorkhipper to enter waste container data for approval of the individual containers. The data will be screened by the WWlS to perform limit checks for each data entry. Data outside the range limits of the WAC will be rejected 12 WIPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 by the database. 6.7 Review and Approval of Certification Data Entries The data administrator will periodically review container Certification Module data that have passed the WWlS datallimit checks. The reviews are at the discretion of the data administrator but are primarily performed for consistencv with the Waste Stream Profile A Form After review of the data, the data administrator will indicate acceptance or rejection of each container characterization record on the accepffreject screen feature in the WWIS. If the record is rejected, the data administrator will input the reason of the rejection into the WWIS. The W I S automatically notifies the generatorlshipper site of the rejection. 6.8 Electronic Data Entrv ­ ShbDina Module The electronic transfer of shipping data will be granted to sites that have an electronic waste information system. The data from the user system must be formatted to be consistent with the WWlS data structures. Before data are transmitted, the user system formatting will be verified by acceptance testing of the generator electronic data system to ensure integrity and compatibility with the WlPP WWIS server. Edit and range checks are performed by the W I S . The data entered are descriptors by waste container or dunnage container and include shipment, packaging, and assembly information. 6.9 Manual Data Entrv ­ ShipDina Module Manual shipping data entry access is granted to generatorkhipper sites which have limited or small quantities of TRU waste or which do not have access to an electronic information system but do have WWlS database capabilities. Manual data entry allows a generatorkhipper site without an electronic waste information system to enter waste data directly into the fields of the WWlS Shipping Module data entry screen. Although the manually entered waste data process is much slower than that of electronic data transfer, the entered waste data receives the same edifflimit checks and reviews as electronic data transfers. 6.10 Review and ApDroval of ShiDDina Data Entries After the generatorlshipper site has entered the required Shipping Module entries, the WlPP data administrator will review the data to ensure that it is complete and passes the WWlS electronic data checks. The data administrator will additionally verify and document on Attachment 4, ushipping Review of Cellulose, Plastics and Rubber 13 WlPP Waste information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 (CPR), n that the amount of the material parameters contained in the shipment will not cause the WlPP repository inventory of cellulose, plastics and rubber to exceed the limit of 2x107 kgs. After these checks have been completed, the data administrator approves the generatorkhipper site shipping data entries by selecting the "accept" field on the WWlS "ReviewlApprove Shipment Information" screen. This approval allows the generatorkhipper site to proceed with preparing the proposed shipment for transport to WIPP. 6.11 Shioment ReceiDt Data Prior to bringing a TRUPACT­ II shipment into the Waste Handling Building, the Waste Handling engineer will print a Shipment Summary Report for use in preparing for the shipment unloading. This report is used by the Waste Handling engineer and Hazardous Waste Operations to provide a summary of parameters important to waste receipt and planning considerations. 6.12 Barcode Data Check of Shioment ­ Received Containers The following information will normally be gathered using a programmed WWIS interface for downloading information to the barcode scanner, but the information can be manually recorded and compared to the information in the Shipment Summary Report. Data input to the WWlS can be accomplished by keyboard input of container barcode numbers and disposal/ storage locations. The W l S contains screens which allow manual input of the inventory and location information if the barcoding equipment is not available. The Waste Handling engineer will place the barcode scanner in the connect cradle and downtoad shipment information to the scanner. The Waste Handling technician will scan a container barcode from each assembly after it is removed from the TRUPACT­ II. (The WWlS program will associate the barcoded container with the seven­ pack assembly number and any of the remaining drums of the assembly.) The programmed scanner will indicate if the scanned container is listed in the approved shipment information. (After matching the scanned container number with the number in the WWIS, shipment approval may proceed.) If the scanner identifies the container number as incorrect, the container will be scanned again. If the number is not recognized in the second scanning, the Waste Handling engineer will be notified. The Waste Handling engineer will notify the Waste Operations manager and Hazardous Waste Operations that the shipment container number does not agree with the shipment summary information. It is the responsibility of Hazardous Waste Operations to resolve any manifest discrepancies by working with the W l S data 14 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 administrator and the generatorkhipper. 6.13 ShiDment Approval The Waste Handling engiileer will notify Hazardous Waste Operations if the w c d d container( s) agree with the WWlS Shipment Summary and obtain their recommendation for approval or disapproval of shipment, based on agreement with manifest *formation. After ysrifying agreement between the WWlS Shipment Summary and the Hazardous Was6 Manifest from Hazardous Waste Operations, the Waste Handling engineer will indicate acceptance of the shipment by selecting the shipment "accept" screen festure of the WWIS. I f the WWIS Shipment Summary and the Hazardous Waste Manifest are not in agreement, the Waste Handling engineer will notify the Waste Operations manager before making a shipment rejection entry into the WWlS (this is expected to be a rare event). 6.14 Recordina Overpack Information If Waste Handling Operations finds it necessary to overpack waste containers (Le., loading corroded, damaged, or contaminated containers into a larger container), the Waste Handling engineer will access the WWlS Overpacked Container input screen and record the overpacked container (i. e., drum or Standard Waste Box [SWS]) configuration information. Disposal location information will be recorded, using the same procedures used for non­ overpacked containers. 6.15 Barcode Data Entrv ­ Location of DrumlAssemblies The Waste Handling engineer can establish valid storage locations (room and panel) by updating the pull­ down screen in the Inventory Module of the WWlS prior to disposal. Waste containers may not be taken underground for disposal until the Waste Handling engineer has accepted the shipment, as indicated by the Shipment Approval in the WWIS. _. 6.16 Container DisRosal Data The Waste Handling engineer will place the underground barcode scanner in the connect cradle and download shipment information to the scanner. The Waste Handling technician can enter the disposal location, including panel and room, into the barcode scanner for each assembly. 15 WIPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 After disposal locations for assemblies of the shipment are recorded in the barcode scanner, the Waste Handling engineer will upload the location information from the barcode scanner to the WWIS. Data errors in the module are listed in the "Bad Location" screen of the WWIS. After uploading the location information, the Waste Handling engineer will review the bad location screen of the WWIS, if necessary, and correct any locations that were found to be incorrect. The data administrator will print a Waste Container Emplacement Report weekly to document updated emplacements performed during the reporting period. This report is added by the data administrator to the WWlS Operational Log and retained at WlPP for the operational life of the facility. 7.0 SETTING UP OTHER SITES TO USE THE WWlS The Waste Operations data administrator provides the generatorlshipper sites with several levels of assistance in setting up generator/ shipper sites with the WWlS database. Services provided to the generatorlshipper sites include: a a a a e e 8.0 Providing users' computers with the necessary W l S client files Making appropriate entries in the WlPP W l S to establish identifications for the designated sites and users Providing data structure tables for sites to populate with site waste data (for electronic data entry) Providing WWlS database user training (on­ the­ job training) for generatorlshipper site data entry personnel Providing the generator/ shipper sites with a user's manual Providing site support visits by the data administrator and programming support personnel Providing telephone support each workday during work hours Providing the site with an acceptance test to qualify the site system in the transmittal of data from the site to the WlPP WWlS EXCEPTIONS AND UNRESOLVED SAFETY QUESTION DETERMINATIONS 16 WIPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 Requests for exceptions (variances) to the WlPP operations and safety requirements must be formally submitted to the CAO for approval. The CAO cannot approve exceptions (variances) to requirements that are controlled by others, such as the NRC for transportation, or the EPA and the NMED for the RCRA component of TRU­ mixed waste, without first obtaining changes to the controlling permits. An exception may be allowable since the stated limit is an average based on the average concentration in a room divided by the number of containers emplaced in the room. The typical drum Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) concentration will be well below the established maximum average concentration. An evaluation can be performed at the time of the generatots request for the exception to ensure that the addition of a drum with a VOC concentration greater than the maximum average will not cause the concentration in the room to exceed the maximum average limit. Unreviewed Safety Question Determinations are performed by WID per WP 12­ ARlOOI. Unreviewed Safety Question Determinations are conducted to determine the impact of proposed waste data that is outside the current limits of the WAC and compares the impact to the margin of safety in the WlPP Safety Analysis Report. The data administrator, upon written notification of a CAO­ approved Exception Request and receipt of an acceptance of the proposed change by Environment, Safety, and Health, will update the WWlS WAC Exception Table with the WAC exception number, package identification, and the new limits for the field allowed in the exception. 9.0 DATA CHANGE CONTROL The data administrator is responsible for WWlS data management and change control. The W I S has several methods of identifying, documenting, and controlling the changing of generator/ shipper site waste data. These methods include: Rejecting container data not accepted by WWlS in the Characterization Module or Certification Module (a Bad Data Report will be created, explaining the reason for reject ion) Resubmitting rejected data will require correction and resubmittal to the WlPP prior to further consideration a ?hanging the approval status after completion of each review and approval stage, defining which module can be used to gain access to the data Deleting a record, if a record change is required by the generatorkhipper after the approval process has begun (the WIPP data administrator deletes the record after recording the reason for the deletion in the Change Log and places a copy of the deleted record in the database Change Log for future reference) 17 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 . Recording (automatically) any changes made to WWlS data records and providing a Change Log Report to identify changes that have been made (Change Log records will be maintained by the database and archived when the database archive copies are made) 10.0 WWlS PROGRAM REPORTS The W l S is designed to produce standardized reports for various uses. The WWIS reports are listed in WP 05­ WA. 01. These reports will satisfy routine needs, but specialized reports may occasionally be required of the W l S data. Provisions are available for performing queries to provide information for nonstandard data requests. These requests will be processed by the data administrator on the basis of the nature of the request, the availability of resources to perform the request, and the approval of Waste Operations management. 10.1 Printina Standardized Reports Access to WWlS database standardized reports is controlled by the access authorizations assigned to users. The WWlS data administrator will print and provide copies of reports for WIPP personnel who do not have access authorization to the WWlS information. The WWlS data administrator will print and issue reports to organizations outside of WIPP only with the express written direction of the CAO or the reports may be sent to the CAO representative for distribution. Such written requests for distribution will be filed by the data administrator for future reference, 10.2 Shipment Summarv ReDort The Shipment Summary Report will be generated at the request of the Waste Handling engineer after all of the shipment information has been received by the WWlS and will include the information necessary for acceptance at the WIPP. This information will include shipment number, TRUPACT­ I1 number, assembly number, inner containment vessel closure date, shipment certification date, shipment date, weight, surface dose rate, identification numbers of each container in the shipment, total activity level, nuclides (by TRUPACT­ It), and the Hazardous Waste Manifest Number (if assigned) to the shipments. 18 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 10.3 Nuelide Report The Nuclide Report lists the radionuclides contained in the waste disposed at WlPP at the time that the report is generated and includes the total activity of individual radionuclides as well as the total repository activity. The report is organized by waste type (contact­ handledhemote­ handled), using selection criteria established by the user, such as nuclides by generator during a specified period, or all actinides. This report can be used to aid in EPA reporting and assist WIPP personnel in organizing data requests for input to the Decay Module. This report is to be generated by WIPP personnel as required. 10.4 Waste Emdacement ReDort The Waste Emplacement Report is generated on an emplacement period basis when containers have been emplaced or otherwise dispositioned and the data has been input to the WWIS from the barcode reader interface. The data is to be collected by container (for S WBs or Ten­ Drum Overpacks) or assembly number (for seven­ packs). This report will be generated weekly and will be added to the Operational Log and retained at WlPP for the operational life of the facility. 10.5 Headspace Gas Concentration Report The Headspace Gas Concentration Report contains the average concentration of all headspace analytes in a particular storage room. The selection criteria is for all containers in a room as defined by actual emplacement information. This report is generated on demand. 10.6 Reaulatorv Reportina: Biennial ReDortina lnwt Report The Biennial Reporting Input Report will be generated annually and is arranged by waste type for each generator contributing waste to WlPP in the previous year. This report summarizes the amount (weight and volume) of the waste received from each generator and collects all of the EPA hazardous codes to provide cross­ correlation in the various reporting schemes. The EPA identification of each waste generator is included along with the Item Description Code (or other local code), the waste matrix code, TRUPACT­ if Content Code, and the WlPP waste stream identification. This report is intended to provide input to WID personnel responsible for generating the Biennial Report. 11 .O WWlS PROGRAM RECORDS Project Record Services is responsible for the retention of records generated by the WlPP WWIS database program. Some of the records generated by this program will be retained at the facility as a part of the operational record until closure of the facility. 19 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 Other records will be sent to records storage. Criteria to define record retention times are listed in the approved Records Inventory and Disposition Schedule and the implementing procedures for each document. 11.1 Backup and Archivina Reauirements The WWIS data administrator will ensure that required nightly backups of system information are performed. The W l S data administrator will use this backup information to reconfigure the system in the abnormal event of a system failure and loss of system data. Nightly backups will be sent out of the building to a backup server to provide for the event of catastrophic hardware failure. In the event of a system failure, the W l S data administrator is responsible for evaluating the failure event and determining the write­ access users that should be notified of the failure since data entered on the day of the failure may have been lost. The WWlS data administrator will create quarterly and annual archive copies of the database information and will provide the archive copies of the WWlS database to Waste Operations for inclusion in the operating record, which will be retained for the life of the facility. 12.0 SITE­ DERIVED WASTE Waste data for site­ derived waste will be input into the WWlS by the Waste Handling engineer. This activity will be performed per the requirements of the procedure entitled Site­ Derived Mixed Waste Handling, WP 05­ WH1036. 13.0 TRAINING FOR THE WWlS PROGRAM This section outlines the type of training that each type of WWIS user must have, incfuding a qualification card for the data administrator@). The WWIS data administrator qualification card specifies the required reading, prerequisite training, knowledge requirements, and practical application requirements needed to ensure proper use of the W I S by the data administrator. The WlPP Technical Training Section administers the qualification card program and controls the WWSS Qualification Cards. The basis of the remaining WWlS training will be on­ the­ job training. Waste Operations on­ the­ job WWlS training will include for the Waste Handling technicians' and Waste Handling engineers' hands­ on use of the system to gain the practical application knowledge needed to operate the system. 20 WIPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 The Configuration Manager will receive instruction on the proper use of the WWlS from the data administrator (the Subject Matter Expert). Software configuration management training required for the Configuration Manager is described in the WlPP Training Program (WP 14­ TR. O1) and Engineering procedures. The data administrator will be qualified per the criteria listed in WlPP RCRA Part B Permit Application, DOEANIPP 91 ­005, Revision 6, Appendix H­ 2; and training will be documented on a WWlS Operator Qualification Card. Waste Handling personnel will be required by their training program to be qualified to operate the WWIS. This training will be documented on the Waste Handling Qualification Cards. Other personnel will be instructed through on­ the­ job training in the use of the WWlS by the data administrator prior to granting of an access code to the W l S database. 14.0 REFERENCES CAO­ 94­ 1010, Transuranic Waste Characterization Quality Assurance Program Plan CAO­ 95­ 1108, WIPP Waste Information System Software Quality Assurance Plan DOEICAO 1996­ 21 84, 40 CFR 191, Compliance Certification Application for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant DOENIPP­ 069, Waste Acceptance Criteria for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant DOElWlPP 91 ­005, WlPP RCRA Part B Permit Application, Chapter C, Waste Analysis Plan SP­ WO­ WWIS­ 002, WWIS User's Manual WP 05­ WA. 01 , WlPP TRU Waste Data Management Plan WP 05­ WA. 03, Waste Stream Profile Form Review and Approval Program Attachment 1 ­ WIS Access Request Form Date: Requestor: Phone: Company: E­ Mail Address: Fax: Organization or Site Requesting Access To W I S : Address: City/ State: Zip: Period of Access Authorization Requested: End Date: or indefinite TYPE OF USER: ­ GeneratodShipper 21 WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 ­ Characterization Data Official ­ Certification Official ­ Shipping Official ­ Regulatory Compliance Official ­ WlPP Operations ­ Remote Site Query Only (your site data only) ­ WlPP Query Only ­ RCRA Permitting Section Staff ­ Quality Engineers ­ Data Administrator ­ Database Administrator ­ Computer Protection Program Manager ­ System Administrator REASON FOR ACCESS: ­ Generatorbhipper data input for review and approval ­ WlPP employee ­assigned WlPP duties ­ Regulatory Compliance oversight ­ Quality Assurance oversight ­ External analysis ­ Other: Signature of Requestor: Site TRU Steering Committee Member. Data Administrator FOR WlPP APPROVAL USE ONLY Date Waste Operations Manager Date Assigned User ID: Assigned Site IO: Assigned Password ID: Assigned Database ID: Page 2 of 1 fn Q) > Q) J ­ L Q) fn 3 f I (Y w S Q) f L u I cr: h (u m u c b E > e 9, (u WlPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 Attachment 3 ­ WWIS Access Notification Form Date: Phone: Site: Requestor: Requestor Organization: Address: WWlS ACCESS: Approved Rejected WIPPWID Waste Operations Data Administrator: Date: Signature Attachment: WWlS Access Request Form Page 1 of I 24 WIPP Waste Information System Program WP 05­ WA. 02, Rev. 0, Chg. 2 Attachment 4 ­ Shipping Review of Cellulose, Plastics and Rubber Page 1 of 1 25 Selection Criteria Container Number 57023 Site Id % Wastestream % Data Status Code % Waste Container Data Report WlPP Waste Information System Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Paae2af5 Waste Container Information Cntr Num : 57023 Site Id : Data Status Code : LA ­ LOS A M O S NATIONAL LABORATORY Shipment Data Approved by WlPP Waste Stream Profile : LA­ TA­ 55­ 43.01 Type Code : 2 ­ SWB WAC Ex. # : Cert Date : 03/ 08/ 1999 Cert Site : WACRev#: 5 LA ­ LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LA Generator Site : IDC Code : LA ­ LOS ALAMOS NATIONA Matrix Code : S5400 Trucon Code : LA125A Shipping Category : 111.1 C1 Pcb Conc( Ppm) : 0 Decay Heat Uncert (Watts) : Decay Heat (Watts) : .206 .0336 Closure Date : 05/ 27/ 1998 Vent Date : 0212411994 Filter Install Date : 05/ 27/ 1998 Filter Model Number : NF013 Aspiration Id : 3 Gas Gen Rate : Gas Hyd Meth Gen Rate : Gas Gen Comp Date : Packaging Num : 128 Shipment Num : LAO0001 Assembly Id : 1288 Overpack Cntr Num : Overpack Cntr Type : Radionuclide Description Handling Code : CH Waste Type Code : TRU Wst Strrn Bir Id : T­ 004 Wst S t n Mwir Id : 0.00 TN Alpha Act (Cii : TN Alpha Act Uncert (Ci) : Tru Alpha Act Conc (CYg) : TN Alpha Act Conc Uncert (Cilg) : Pu239 Eq Act (PE Ci) : Pu239 Fiss Grn Eq (Fge) : Pu239 Fiss Gm Eq Uncert (Fge) : Layers Of Packaging : 1 Fill Factor (%) : 44 Liner Type : Liner Punctured : Gross Weight (Kg) : 424.9 Gross Weight Uncert (Kg) : Alpha Surf Cont (dpm/ lOOcm2) : BG Surf Cont (dpm/ 100cmZ) : Bg Dose Rate (rnrerdhr) : Neut Dose Rate (rnrem/ hr) : Total Dose Rate (mrem/ hr) : 1.4 7 f 2 0 0 0 Cntr Disposal Date : Cntr Status Code : PRE 6.160E+ OO 2.010E+ 00 4.468E­ 05 1 ­458E­ 05 5.61 *I 1 ­04 Nuclide Information Activity( Ci) Activity Uncert( Ci) Mass( G) Mass Uncert( G) pu­ 238 PU­ 240 PU­ 241 PU­ 242 PU­ 239 AM­ 24 1 NP­ 237 PLUTONIUM 238 PLUTONIUM 240 PLUTONIUM 241 PLUTONIUM 242 PLUTONIUM 239 AMERICIUM 241 NEPTUNIUM 237 6.15 .00183 .000003 .000007 .00434 .00421 .oooooo 1.005 .0076 .000001 .000002 .00113 .00284 .oooooo .356 ­00794 ­001 12 ­00 1 68 .069 ­00121 .000602 .Ea .0331 ­000212 ­000475 ­01 795 .00082 AM0158 Waste Container Data Report WlPP Waste Information System Waste isolation Pilot Plant Page 3 of 5 Waste Container Information Cntr Num : 57023 Site Id : Data Status Code : Type Code : LA ­ LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LABORATORY Shlpment Data Approved by WlPP 2 ­ SWB Waste Stream Profile : LA­ TA­ 5543.01 Nuclide information Mass Radionuclide Description Activity( Ci) Activity Uncer&( Ci) Mass( G) Uncert( G) U­ 234 URANIUM 234 ~~ .00047 .000133 .0744 .02095 Waste Mat1 Parm Radio Assay Method Material Parameters Information Description Weight( Kg) RUBBER 4.39 IRON BASE METAL ALLOYS 114.15 OTHER M ETAUALLOYS .06 CELLULOSICS 1.55 PLASTICS 18.1 FRAM PAN Method Id RTRM VISUAL Assay Methods Information Description Assay Date Description PC/ GAMMA ISOTOPIC RATIO SYSTEM PASSIVE/ ACTIVE NEUTRON COUNTER Characterization Methods Information MOBILE RTR @ LANL VISUAL CHARACTERIZATION METHOD Sample Id : H­ 8FEB0413. D Layer No Sampled : 0 Sample information 041301. l998 04/ 30/ 1998 Charz Method Date o i 11 311 998 0312711 990 Sample Type : HGHM Date Sampled : 02/ 04/ 1998 Sample Amounts Analyte Method Concentration Date Analyzed Detection Method 1333­ 74­ 0 ­ HYDROGEN 74­ 82­ 8 ­ METHANE Sample Id : V­ 8FEB0413. D Layer No Sampled : 0 520.1 .02 Volume 02/ 04/ 1998 U 520.1 .02 Volume 02/ 04/ 1998 U % Yo Sample Type : HGVO Date Sampled : Q2/ 04/ 1998 Waste Container Data Report WlPP Waste Information System Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Page 4 of 5 ~~ ~~~ ~ Waste Container Information Cntr Num : 57023 Site Id : Data Status Code : Type Code : LA ­ LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LABORATORY Shipment Data Approved by WlPP 2 ­ SWB Waste Stream Profile : LA­ TA­ 5543.01 Sample Id : V­ 8FEB0413. D Layer No Sampled : 0 Sample Information Sample Type : HGVO Date Sampled : 02/ 04/ 1998 Sample Amounts Analyte Method 100­ 41­ 4 ­ ETHYL BENZENE 107­ 06­ 2 ­ 1,2­ DICHLOROETHANE 108­ 10­ 1 ­ METHYL ISOBUTYL KETONE 108­ 67­ 8 ­ 1,3,5­ TRIMETHYLBENZENE 108­ 88­ 3 ­ TOLUENE 108­ 90­ 7 ­ CHLOROBENZENE 10838311 06423 ­ M, P­ XYLENE 110­ 82­ 7 ­ CYCLOHEXANE 127­ 1 8­ 4 ­ TETRACHLOROETHYLENE 156­ 59­ 2 ­ CIS­ 1 ,ZDICHLOROETHYLENE 56­ 23­ 5 ­ CARBON TETRACHLORIDE 60­ 29­ 7 ­ ETHYL ETHER 67­ 56­ 1 ­ METHANOL 67­ 64­ 1 ­ ACETONE 67­ 66­ 3 ­ CHLOROFORM 71­ 36­ 3 ­ BUTANOL 71­ 43­ 2 ­ BENZENE 71­ 55­ 6 ­ 1, l ,I­ TRICHLOROETHANE 75­ 09­ 2 ­ METHYLENE CHLORIDE 75­ 25­ 2 ­ BROMOFORM 75­ 34­ 3 ­ 1, l­ DICHLOROETHANE 75­ 35­ 4 ­ 1, l ­DICHLOROETHY LENE 76­ 13­ 1 ­ 1,1,2­ TRICHLORO­ I ,2,2­ TRIFLUOROETHANE 78­ 93­ 3 ­ METHYL ETHYL KETONE 79­ 01­ 6 ­ TRICHLOROETHYLENE 79­ 34­ 5 ­ I ,I ,2, ZTETRACHLOROETHANE 9547­ 6 ­ O­ XYLENE 95­ 63­ 6 ­ 1,2,4­ TRIMETHYLBENZENE 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 430.1 Concentration Date Analyzed Detection Method 2.43 Ppm 2.42 Ppm 25.5 Ppm 3.71 Ppm 2.07 Ppm 2.3 Ppm 4.9 Ppm 2.39 Ppm 1.83 Ppm 2.31 Ppm 1.88 Ppm 2.66 Ppm 15.1 Ppm 20.5 Ppm 1.76 Ppm 21.8 Ppm 1.52 Ppm 2.01 Ppm 1.71 Ppm 2.65 Ppm 2.23 Ppm .92 Ppm 1.91 Ppm 18.9 Ppm 1.72 Ppm 2.49 Ppm 2.54 Ppm 3.47 Ppm Comment Information Comment Type Comments . 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 04/ 1998 02/ 0411 998 ozo4/ 199a 02/ 0411 998 U U U U U U U U u U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U Waste Container Data Report WlPP Waste Information System Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Page 5 of 5 Waste Container Information Cntr Num : 57023 Site Id : Data Status Code : Type Code : LA ­ LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LABORATORY Shipment Data Approved by WlPP 2 ­ SWB Waste Stream Profile : LA­ TA­ 5543.01 Comment Information Comment Type Comments ~ ~ ~ ­ ­ ­~­ WASTE CONTAINER ORIGINAL DRUM REPACKAGED INTO MULTIPLE DRUMS, THEN INDIVIDUAL DAUGHTER DRUMS REPACKAGED INTO SWB WITH DRUM LID REMOVED & 3 EMPTY DRUMS FILTER DATE AND CLOSURE DATE ARE FOR SWB CONTAINER, VENT DATE IS FOR WASTE VENTING WHICH IS THE DATE ORIGINAL DRUM WAS VENTED, RTRM ON ORIGINAL DRUM BEFORE REPACKAGING DAUGHTER DRUM WAS USED FOR RADIOASSAY ORIGINAL VENTED & FILTERED DRUM WAS REPACKAGED AFTER HGAS RADIONUCLIDES 49CFR173.433F ISOTOPE LIST FOR SHIPPING PAPERS & LABELING: PU­ 238 GENERAL COMMENTS ASSAY METHODS CHAR2 METHODS Selection Criteria Site id : Nuclide : Panel Number : Room Number : Handling Code : Show Uncertainty : TRU Nuclides Only : EPA Tracked Nuclides Only: % % % % % YES 96 Y WlPP Waste Information System Nuclide Report Waste Isolation Mot Plant Page 2 of 2 Panel Number: 1 Room Number: 1 Activity Activity Mass Radionuclide (Ci) Uncert (Ci) Mass( G) Uncert( G) PU­ 239 ­ PLUTONIUM 239 61 3 63.05 68 63.5 Totals: 613 63.05 68 63.5 Panel Number: 1 Room Number: 2 Activity Activity Mass Radionuclide . (Ci) Uncert (Ci) Mass( G) Uncert( G) AM­ 241 ­ AMERICIUM 241 .017937191 7 .0012559 .005171 PU­ 238 ­ PLUTONIUM 238 .047886207 7 .003351 ­002767 PU­ 239 ­ PLUTONIUM 239 4.02001 3791 10 3.07141 19.22 PU­ 240 ­ PLUTONIUM 240 .233645937 7 .01636 1.0151 PU­ 242 ­ PLUTONIUM 242 Panel Number: 1 .00002954 7 .000002068 ­007454 Totals: 4.319512666 38 3.092378968 20.250492 Room Number: 8 Activity Activity Mass Radionuclide (Ci) Uncert (Ci) Mass( G) Uncet­ t( G) PU­ 239 ­ PLUTONIUM 239 14 6.1 134 6.1 Totals: 14 6.1 134 6.1 Panel Number: 1 Room Number: 7 Activity Activity Mass Radionuclide (Ci) Uncert (Ci) Mass( G) Uncert( G) U­ 238 ­ URANIUM 238 .00000068 2 0 2 Panel Number: 1 Totals: .00000068 2 0 2 Room Number: 7 Activity Activity Mass Mass( G) Uncert( G) Radionuclide (Ci) Uncert (Ci) AM­ 241 ­ AMERICIUM 241 1.487297834 35.33348 .402953 .124164 46.487302 ­032572 PU­ 238 * PLUTONIUM 238 80.452481581 35.181366 PU­ 239 ­ PLUTONIUM 239 PU­ 240 ­ PLUTONIUM 240 128.099689442 38.7763 1805.07754 191 .I21 5.380749684 35.86457 15.3752 1 1.2917 PU­ 242 ­ PLUTONIUM 242 .0004a9627 35.000065651 .064286713 .075494 ~~ Totals: 215.420708168 180.155781651 1867.40728171 202.64493 Grand Totals: 846.740221 514 289.305781651 2072.49966068 294.495422 Working Copy Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan WP 02­ PC. 02. Rev. 0 CCA. 40 CFR Part 191, Compliance Certification Application for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant. DOEKAO­ 1996­ 2184. October 1996, United States Department of Energy, Waste isolation Pilot Plant, Carlsbad Area Office, Carlsbad, New Mexico. 6 Working Copy . Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan WP 02­ PC. 02, Rev. 0 FIGURE 1 SURVEILLANCE AREAS WITHIN THE DELAWARE BASIN I I I P W ME XICO D R W H OLEDATABASE Wednesday, March 24, I999 AMERICAN PETROLEUM INSTITUTE ~ TOWNSHIP 21s 1 ~­ RANGE 27E .... SECTION 35 ­ ­ ­ LOCATION 198OFS­ 198OFW , ___ I_ . ­ . COUNTY EDDY NUMBER 30015220860000 __. ­. MAPSYMBOL OG ___ I 552650 LOCATION POINTS ARE FOR REFERENCE ONLY ­ NO ­ ­ ­__­ STATE X­ PUNE ACTUAL SURVEY MADE. ­ ­_ STATE Y ­PLANE 521 671, I ______ NINE TOWNSHIP 0 UNIT LOCATION WELLNAME WELW OPERATOR WELL STATUS B TWN LEASE FIELD NAME DRILLER NELL TYPE 'LUGGED DATE >OMPDATE TD FORMATION M P INFORMATIOY __ I­_ ­­___ .­ i __­.­ ... .... OIL & GAS WELL .... .... ~______ .... II CARLSBAD E ~ ­ ­ ­ ­ ELEVATION 31 27KB ZND CASING STRING &DEVELOPMENT ­­­. I ­_­­__ 133/ 8@ 428 038@ 2W __ .......... . .... ... .. . .­ 3RD CASING STRING 4TH CASING STRING I.­ ­ SPUD DATE 03/ 31 I1 977 ­­­ __ _> __ ow02l1977' _____ ___ __ I 359MSSP . ._ ..... .... 5 112 Q m 9 5 __.__ STH CASING STRING ­_ m U N E O U S W F U F ORMATIOM NCIDENCE REPORTI TWN 0 KNOWN POTASH AIR DRILLED 0 WAS BRINE ENCOUNTERED [7 FIELD V l s c c LEASE AREA 1st WORKOVER Ind WORKOVER 'rd WORKOVER .th WORKOVER th WORKOVER IOTES .­­ I_..­ ..... ...... .. ........ ____ ..... ............................ .......................... . . ­ .~ . ­ ... .... ................ .......... .­ .... ........... ­ ..... ..... ...... ..... ..... _. I___..~__ I._ _I.__~. ............. __ .... ­ ... ......... ­. .. WASTE ISOLATION PILOT PLANT DELAWARE BASIN DRILLING SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT 997 throuph SEPTEMBER I 998 DBANNUALREPORT Table of Contents 1.0 Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program 2.0 Background­ Appendix DEL Data DEL. 5.1.3 Drilling Fluids DEL. 7 DEL. 7.1 Regulatory Context DEL. 7.2 Shallow Drilling Events DEL. 7.2.1 Water Wells DEL. 7.2.2 Potash Coreholes DEL. 7.2.3 Sulhr Coreholes Inadvertent and Intermittent Intrusion by Drilling DEL. 7.3 Deep Drilling Events DEL. 7.4 DEL. 7.5 DEL. 7.6 Borehole Permeability Assessment Rate of Drilling in the Basin Pressurized Brine Encounters Within the Delaware Basin 3.0 Schedule­ Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program 4.0 1998 Updates­ Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9 Drilling Fluids Shallow Drilling Events Deep Drilling Events Rate of Drilling in the Basin New Mexico Well Count and Intrusion Rate Pressurized Brine Encounters Within the Delaware Basin Borehole Permeability Assessment Borehole Depths and Diameters New Drilling Technology 5.0 Summary­ 1998 Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program 1 3 3 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 9 13 14 14 14 14 14 15 16 . 17 17 17 17 17 6.0 Quality Assurance 18 7.0 References 19 Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Table DEL­ 3 Table DEL­ 4 Table DEL­ 5 Table DEL­ 6 Table DEL­ 7 List of Figures WIPP Site, Delaware Basin, and Surrounding Area 20 Minimum Oiiand Gas Well Plugging Requirements in the Delaware Basin 21 Standard Oil and Gas Well Plugging Practices in the Potash Resource Area of the Delaware Basin Typical Well Structure and General Stratigraphy Near the WIPP Site Stratigraphy for W P Site and Surrounding Area Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program Schedule ­ FY 98 and FY 99 List of Tables Boreholes Within the Delaware Basin Number of Shallow and Deep Boreholes Within the Delaware Basin, by Resource or Type Number of Shallow Boreholes Per Square Kilometer in the Delaware Basin, by Resource or Type Number of Deep Boreholes Per Square Kilometer in the Delaware Basin, by Resource or Type Number of Boreholes Per Square Kilometer to be Used in Performance 22 23 24 25 6 7 8 8 Assessment Calculations 9 1.0 DELA WARE BASIN DRILLING SURVEELANCE PROGRAM The Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program (DBDSP) is designed to monitor resource extraction activities in the vicinity of the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP). This program is based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements. The EPA environmental standards for the management and disposal of Transuranic (TRU) radioactive waste are codified in 40 CFR Part 191 (EPA 1993). Subparts B and C of the standard address the disposal of radioactive waste: The standard requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to demonstrate the expected performance of the disposal system using a probabilistic risk assessment or performance assessment (PA). This PA must show that the expected repository performance will not release radioactive material above limits set by the EPAs standard. This assessment must include the consideration of inadvertent drilling into the repository at some hture time. The EPA provided criteria in 40 CFR 0 194.33 that addressed the consideration of future deep and shallow drilling in PA. These criteria lead to the formulation of conceptual models that incorporate the effects of these activities. These conceptual models use parameter values drawn fiom the databases in Appendix DEL of the Compliance Certification Application (CCA). Appendix DEL databases contain resource extraction information gathered as a precursor to the DBDSP. Examples of information of interest include the drilling rate of deep and shallow boreholes and data relating to these holes such as diameter. In accordance with these criteria the DOE used the historical rate of drilling for resources in the Delaware Basin to caiculate a fbture drilling rate. In particular, in calculating the frequency of future deep drilling, 40 CFR 9 194.33( b)( 3)( 1) (EPA 1996) provided the following guidance to the DOE: idenafy deep drilling that has occurred for each resource in the Delaware Basin over the past 100 years prior to the time at which a compliance application is prepared. The DOE used the historical record of deep drilling for resources below 2,150 feet (656 meters) that has occurred over the past 100 years in the Delaware Basin. 2,150 feet was chosen because this is the depth to the repository and the repository is not directly breached by boreholes less than this depth. In the past 100 years, deep drilling occurred for oil, gas, potash, and s u l k exploration. These drilling events were used in calculating the rate of deep drilling within the controlled area (the sixteen section Land Withdrawal Boundary of W P ) and throughout the basin in the future, as discussed in Appendix DEL of the CCA. Historical drilling for purposes other than resource exploration and recovery (such as W P site investigation) were excluded from the calculation in accordance with guidance provided in 40 CFR 194.33. In calculating the fiequency of hture shallow drilling, 40 CFR 4 194.33( b)( 4)( 1) states that the DOE should: idenufy shallow dnlling that has occurred for each resource in the Delaware Basin over the past IO0 years prior to the time at which a compliance application is prepared. 1 Additional criterion for calculation of fbture shallow drilling rates is provided in 40 CFR 6 194.3 3 (b)( 4)( iii): in considering the hstorical rate of all shallow drilling, the Department may. if justified. consider only the hstorical rate of shallow dnliing for resources of similar type and quality to those in the controlled area. The only resources present at shallow depths (less than 2,150 feet [655 meters] below the surface) within the controlled area are water and potash. Thus, consistent with 40 CFR 0 194.33( b)( 4), the DOE used the historical record of shallow drilling associated with water and potash extraction in the Delaware Basin to calculate the rate of shallow drilling within the controlled area. The EPA provides fkrther criteria concerning the analysis of the consequences of fUture drilling events in performance assessments in 40 CFR tj 194.33( c)( EPA 1996). Consistent with these criteria, the following parameters regarding drilling were considered in the performance assessment as documented in Appendix DEL of the CCA: types of drilling fluids * amounts of drilling fluids borehole depths borehole diameters borehole plugs fraction of such boreholes that are sealed by humans 0 natural processes that will degrade plugs * instances of encountering pressurized brine in the Castile The DOE will continue to provide surveillance of the drilling activity in the Delaware Basin in accordance with the criteria established in 40 CFR 194 during the operational phase and win continue until the DOE and the EPA agree that no hrther benefit can be gained from continued surveillance. The results of this surveillance activity will be used in performance assessment calculations performed in support of recertification. The purpose of the Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan is to provide for active surveillance of drilling activities within the Delaware Basin (Figure l), with specific emphasis on the nine­ township area that includes the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) Site (Figure 1). The surveillance of drilling activities will build on the data presented in Appendix DEL and comply with the activities presented in Appendix DMP of the CCA, which were used to develop modeling assumptions for PA. The collection of additional information on drilling patterns and practices in 2 the Delaware Basin will be used to define whether the drilling scenarios in the application continue to be valid at each recertification or documentation of continued compliance for the WIPP. Surveillance of drilling activities within the Delaware Basin will be implemented no later than at the beginning of the operational phase. This activity will continue after closure for 100 years or until the DOE can demonstrate to the EPA that there are no significant concerns to be addressed by further surveillance (Section 7.1.4, DOE 1996b). Beginning no later than the initiation of the operational phase and continuing through post closure, drilling activities within the Delaware Basin will be tracked using commercially available databases. Drilling activities as related to hydrocarbon resources, potash boreholes, and water wells that occur within the nine­ township area, in which the W P Site is centered, will be more rigorously monitored using the commercial databases, visual surveillances, and the drilling records maintained by both state and federal organizations. 2.0 BACKGROUND­ APPENDIX DEL 1996 DATA The information and tables presented in this section are from Appendix DEL of the Compliance Certification Application (DOE 1996a) submitted to the EPA in October 1996. This information was used in the PA that supported the first WIPP certification to the EPA disposal standard. The basis of the DBDSP is to provide annual accounting on the specific items mentioned in this section. The well counts listed in Tables DEL­ 4, DEL­ 5, and DEL­ 6 were used to calculate the intrusion rate for PA. Table DEL­ 7 shows the results of those calculations. Section 4.0 of this report will address the specific. items from this section with updated counts fiom 1996 and new calculations as necessary. DEL. S. 1.3 Drilling fluids are an integral part of every drilling program. Rotary drilling rigs and drill bits would not be able to hnction without drilling fluids, or mud as it is most commonly referred to in the oil and gas industry. The drilling fluids are circulated continuously through the drill pipe, down hoie to the bit nozzles, and back up the annulus to the mud tanks or pits on the surface. The drilling fluids pumped through the bit nozzles cause the bit cutters to turn which, a' ­ 4g with the turning of the drill stem, cuts the hole. As the fluid moves out through the drill bit, a i carries the cuttings made by the bit to the surface. Drilling fluids serve several other functions as well. They lubricate and cool the bit, assist in bringing heavier cuttings to the surface, aid in controlling pressures that may exist in formations that are penetrated by the bit, and serve as a source of downhole information. There are a variety of drilling fluids used in Delaware Basin drilling. Most rotary drilling operations use saturated brine (10 to 10.5 pounds per gallon) as a drilling fluid until reaching the Bell Canyon Formation, where intermediate casing is set. The brine has most often been 3 manufactured by injecting fresh water into the Salado Formation and then pumping the water back to the surface. This process enables drillers to have a constant source of quality brine water. Saturated brine is used heavily in drilling because the intermediate string passes through the Salado Formation, which is salt. Fresh water will cause washout of the salt. Once drilling is continued in harder rock formations, such as the Bell Canyon Formation, materials such as bentonite, barite, or attapulgite are often added to the drilling fluid. All of these materials will increase viscosity and add weight to the drilling fluid column. In recent years, the increased capacities of circulating systems and improvements in pumping technology have resulted in greater precision in controlling mud flow. Present day drilling fluids have been formulated using complex chemistry to combat specific downhole problems. These additions to fluid technology allow the driller to vary chemical and physical properties of the drilling fluid many times if necessary while drilling an oil or gas well. DEL. 7 Inadvertent and Intermittent Intrusion by Drilling Information pertinent to the assessment of the likelihood of inadvertent intrusion into the repository is presented in this section. DEL. 7.1 Regulatory Context The EPA criteria for certification of WIPP's compliance with the 40 CFR Part 191 disposal regulations state that performance assessments examine deep and shallow drilling that may potentially affect the disposal system during the 10,000­ year regulatory time frame (40 CFR tj 194.33[ a] and tj 194.54[ b][ l]). Deep drilling is defined by the criteria as drilling events that reach or exceed 2,150 feet (655 meters) below the surface while shallow drilling means drilling events that do not reach a depth of 2,150 feet (655 meters) (6 194.2). The total rate of deep drilling must be calculated as the sum of the rates of deep drilling for each resource in the Delaware Basin over the past 100 years. The total rate of shallow drilling must be calculated as the sum of the rates of shallow drilling over the same time period for each resource in the Delaware Basin that is of similar type and quality as the resources in the W P controlled area. DEL. 7.2 Shallow Drilling Events The majority of shallow holes are composed of water wells, potash cbreholes, and sulkr coreholes. The identification, location, and depth of the shallow boreholes in the Delaware Basin have been taken from existing commercial databases and maps. The data gathered on shallow boreholes was taken directly from commercial databases and BLM records as described below. DEL. 7.2.1 w r W e h Information on water wells in the Delaware Basin was obtained from a commercial database developed by Whitestar Corporation of Englewood, Colorado. 4 DEL. 7.2.2 Potashew Information on potash coreholes in the Delaware Basin was compiled from BLM records. DEL. 7.2.3 Mfu r Coreho la Sulfbr corehole information was obtained from a commercial database developed by Whitestar Corporation of Englewood, Colorado, and the Petroleum Information Corporation of Denver, Colorado. DEL. 7.3 Deep Drilling Events Only the drilling of a deep well could result in inadvertent human intrusion into the WIPP repository. The only known wells that can be classified as deep are oil and gas wells. Information on the identification, location, and depth of the deep boreholes in the Delaware Basin has been derived from existing commercial databases and maps. The data gathered on the deep oil and gas boreholes are available from several commercial sources. To assure the accuracy of these commercial databases and maps, and obtain the best possible count of deep wells in the basin, these commercial sources were verified against one another. The data sources selected for determining the number of oil and gas wells in the DeIaware Basin were maps obtained fiom the Midland Map Company (MMC) and a database obtained fiom the Petroleum Information Corporation (PI). Both the MMC and PI obtained well records from the NMOCD and the Railroad Commission of Texas OGD. These companies have a reputation for data reliability; the information they provide is regarded as a standard within the industry. However, these companies do not provide any warranty on the accuracy or the completeness of the data. It is not considered economically feasible to validate these data. The process of validating the data would require field verification of wells in an area covering approximately 8,910 square miles (23,077 square kilometers) as well as a comparison of NMOCD and BLM records with the private records of the various oil and gas companies. While it was not considered feasible to vaiidate the original data, it was considered reasonable to determine a verifiable deep well count. By comparing the two selected commercial sources of data, a count of deep wells in the Delaware Basin has been prepared. In comparing the PI database to the MMC maps, some wells were found to be identified either in the database or on the maps, but not in both sources. The well count presented here was derived using aIl wells in the PI database plus the wells identified on the MMC maps that were not in the PI database. DEL. 7.4 Rate of Drilling in the Basin The number of boreholes listed in the PI database and the number of boreholes shown on the 5 MMC map but not listed in the PI database are provided in Table DEL­ 3. In addition, the number of shallow and deep boreholes created in the Delaware Basin over the past 100 years is shown by type of borehole in Table DEL­ 4. En the case of water wells, the available data do not include the depths of all of the water wells shown in the database. To amve at an estimate of the total number of deep and shallow water weils, the ratio of known deep wells (that is, those 2,150 feet [656 meters] or greater) versus known shallow water wells was calculated and applied to the total number ofwater wells shown in the database. Table DEL­ 3. Boreholes Within the Delaware Basin, 1996 Boreholes Shown on the Midland Map But Boreholes Listed Not Listed in the PI Total Number of Borehole Type in the PI Database Database Boreholes by Type Oil Well Gas Well OiUGas Well Abandoned Wells Dry Hole Jnjection Well Service Well Total Hydrocarbon Boreholes Sulphur Corehole Potash Corehole Stratigraphic and Core Test Hole ' Water Well Brine Well (Solution Mining) Total Other Boreholes Hydrocarbon Boreholes 5,728 37 1,569 2 11 0 167 1 3,453 56 72 2 147 0 .I50 98 Other Resource, Exploratory, or Test Boreholes 5 84 0 925 0 1,271 ' 0 2,311 1 0 0 5,092 0 5,765 1,571 14 168 3,509 74 147 11,248 584 925 1,271 ' 2,3 11 1 5,092 Excluding boreholes dnlled as part of WIPP site characterization programs 6 The intrusion rate for boreholes drilled per square kilometer (0.39 square mile) over 10,000 years has been calculated using the borehole counts listed in Tables DEL­ 4, DEL­ 5, and DELQ. The calculated rates suggested for use in the performance assessment are shown in Table DEL­ 7. As provided by 40 CFR 3 194.33( b)( 4)( iii), the calculated rate for shallow boreholes excludes sulphur holes because no economically extractable sulphur is located within the WIPP land withdrawal area (NMBMMR 1995). In addition, consistent with EPA guidance in the ReJponse to Comments Document For 40 CFR Pur? 194 (EPA 1996c) (see page 12­ 8, last paragraph), both shallow and. deep holes created as part of WIPP site characterization efforts have been excluded from the count. Based on the data provided in these tables, the calculated rates are 21.821 shallow holes per square kilometer (0.39 square mile) and 46.765 deep holes per square kilometer (0.39 square mile) over 10,000 years. Table DEL4. Number of Shallow and Deep Boreholes Within the Delaware Basin, by Resource or Type, 1996 1 Borehole Type Shallow Borehole Deep Borehole ' Hydrocarbon Borehole 608 Sulphur Corehole 195 Potash Corehole 906 Stratigraphic and Core Test Hole 1,215 Water Well 2,3 11 Brine Well (Solution Mining) 1 Total Boreholes, by Depth 5,536 10,640 89 19 56 0 0 10,804 ' Equal to or less than 2,150 feet (655 m). Greater than 2,150 feet (655 m). Excluding boreholes drilled as part of WIPP site characterization programs. 7 Table D E E 5 Number of Shallow Boreholes Per Square Kilometer in the Delaware Basin, by Resource or Type ', 1996 Borehole Type Deep Boreholes * Boreholes Per Square F( m Hydrocarbon Borehole 10,640 46.056 Sulphur Corehole 89 0.385 Potash Corehole 19 0.082 Stratigraphic and Core Test Holes3 56 0.212 Brine Well (Solution Mining) 0 0 Water Well 0 0 Total Deep Boreholes 10,804 16.765 i ~ ~ Borehole Type Shallow Boreholes * Boreholes Per Square Km Hydrocarbon Borehole 608 2.632 Sulphur Corehole 495 2.113 Potash Corehole 906 3.922 Stratigraphic & Core Test Holes 1,215 ' I Water Wells 2,311 5.259 10.003 Brine Well (Solution Mining) 1 0.004 Total Shallow Boreholes 5,536 23.963 * * The area of the Delaware Basin is 23,102.1 square kilometers (14.356 square miles). The number of holes per square kilometer is calculated as follows: (number of holes) x 10.000 years / area / 100 years. Equal to or less than 2.150 feet (655 m). Excluding boreholes dnlled as part of WIPP site characterization programs. Table DEL6. Number of Deep Boreholes Per Square Kilometer in the Delaware Basin, by Resource or Type *, 1996 8 Table DEL­ 7. Number of Boreholes Per Square Kilometer to be Used in Performance Assessment Calculations, 1996 Type of Borehole Number of Boreholes Boreholes Per Square Km Shallow Borehole 5.041 ' 21.821 Deep Borehole 10,801 46.765 ' Excluding sulphur coreholes and boreholes drilled as part of W P site characterization programs. ' Excluding boreholes dnlled as part of WIPP site characterization programs. DEL. 7.5 Pressurized Brine Encounters Within the Delaware Basin Some of the human intrusion scenarios evaluated in the WIPP performance assessment include the assumption that a borehole results in the establishment of a flow path between the repository and a pressurized brine pocket that could be located beneath the repository in the Castile. To iden* reasonable assumptions for use in the CCA performance assessment, commercial drillers and operators with experience in the Delaware Basin were surveyed to determine the frequency of occurrence and typical depths of abnormally pressurized brine zones within the Delaware Basin (Personal Communication 1996d; Personal Communication 1996e; Personal Communicatbn 1996c Personal Communication 19968). For the purpose of this investigation, abnormalIy pressurized brine zones are defined as those that exhibit pressures exceeding the hydrostatic pressure of the column of drilling fluid in the hole. Consistent with this definition, any brine encounter having pressure exceeding hydrostatic pressure is considered abnormally pressurized. Flow to the surface driven by differential pressures just above hydrostatic pressure, however, would typically not be noticed by a driller, and is expected to be of little impact to performance assessment. When asked how often abnormally pressurized brine zones are encountered, each of the drillers surveyed stated that it was an uncommon occurrence in the Delaware Basin, and that they believe the actual frequency to be less than five percent. This estimate captures those occurrences where the differential pressure could be great enough to drive a noticeable quantity of drilling fluid to the surface. The drillers reported that these zones are most frequently encountered in the Castile Formation in the Delaware Basin. The Castile Formation within the Land Withdrawal Area (LWA) is approximately 1,250 feet (381 meters) thick. It is primarily an anhydrite formation and has been found to have isolated areas that hold quantities of brine. Based on observed Castile porosity (amount of space in the formation to store brine) and permeability (ability of the formation to conduct fluids), brine present in the unit may be released into an intersecting uncased wellbore. This brine may be normally or abnormally pressured. 9 Hydrostatic pressure at any depth in the wellbore is calculated using the formula: Prn = MW x D x 0.052 where Pm= pressure (pounds per square inch), MW= mud weight (pounds per gallon), D= depth (feet), and and 0.052 is a conversion factor representing mud density. For example, at 3,000 feet (915 meters), the hydrostatic pressure is calculated at 1,560 pounds per square inch (1.08 x lo7 Pa) based upon the use of a 10­ pounds­ per­ gallon saturated brine as the drilling fluid. In this example, brine flow to the surface would be possible only if the brine source is pressurized greater than 1,560 pounds per square inch. Typically, the driller would become aware of abnormally pressurized brine zones only if the pressure of the brine encounter is sufficient to cause a noticeable gain of fluid in the mud pit. When this occurs and the flow is not great enough to cause immediate concern, drilling will typically continue, but the driller will calculate the rate of brine flow. This is accomplished by shutting off the pumps and using a bucket of known capacity to catch the fiee­ flowing brine and noting the time that it takes to fill the bucket. From this measurement, the driller can determine the rate of flow in barrels­ per­ minute. If the flow rate is not so great as to cause concern ofover­ filling the reserve pit, drilling would continue until the hole reaches the Bell Canyon Formation. The intermediate casing would then be tun and cemented. Once in place, the casing string would isolate the over pressurized zone and prevent fbrther flow to the surface. A very heavy brine flow, however, such as one that could potentially fill the pit within one­ to­ two hours, would not be allowed to continue. Corrective action would be taken in the form of killing the flow of brine. This is accomplished in the field by shutting in the blowout preventor (BOP) and calculating the downhole pressure. Using this pressure, the driller then determines the quantity of barite (the mud additive most often used) that must be added to the drilling fluid to sufficiently increase the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the column, so that the differentiai pressure results in downward flow itom the drilling fluid column into the formation. When brine flow to the surface has stopped, drilling continues to the depth originally determined in the well plan. Once this depth is reached, intermediate casing is run and cemented in place. The drillers reported that measures to kill pressure­ driven flow to the surface are rarely required. They are generally able to drill through the Castile Formation while brine is flowing and successfblly set the intermediate string in the Bell Canyon Formatien (the typical drilling horizon). Using a typical drilling scenario based on a pressurized zone at a depth of 3,000 feet (915 meters) with a hydrostatic pressure of 1,560 pounds per square inch (1.08 x lo7 Pa), flow rates necessary to fill the pit at one­ and­ two­ feet­ per­ hour increments have beeh calculated. This calculation is provided below. 10 Assume: A. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. J. K. L. M. N. Well Depth, A2 : Mud Pit Volume: Casing Weight: Casing Inner Diameter Open Hole Inner Diameter Unit Volume: Unit Volumetric Flow Rate: Drilling Fluid: Density (p): Friction Factor (f): Internal Casing Pipe Area (A): Gravity (8): Velocity (1 ft/ hr Brine Pit Disp.): Velocity (2 ft/ hr Brine Pit Disp.): 3,000 feet 125 feet * 125 feet * 6 feet = 93.750 cubic feet = 701.298.701 gallons 32 pounds per foot 8.625 inches 11.5 inches = 0.958 feet 15,625 cubic feet per foot of vertical height 4.34 cubic feet per second Case 1: 10.25 pounds per gallon brine Case 2: barite Case 1: 76.68 pounds per cubic foot Case 2: 263.3 pounds per cubic foot 0.06 for coated casinglopen hole x d2/ 4 = ~( 0.958)~/ 1= 0.721 square feet 32.17 feet per square second V = QIA= 4.31* 1/ 0.721 = 6.017 feet per second V = QIA= 4.34* 2/ 0.721 = 12.034 feet per second Equation: Derived from Gieck (1987) For the case of 1 f a r brine pit displacement: AP = 1,654.099 pounds per square inch (1.14046 x lo7 Pa) gauge For the case of 2 fthr brine pit displacement: AP = 1,823.784 pounds per square inch (1.25745 x IO' Pa) gauge The calculation shows that a one­ foot­ per­ hour pit level increase would be possible only if encountering bottom­ hole pressures of at least 1,654 pounds per square inch gauge. A two­ foot­ per­ hour increase in the pit level would require a pressure of 1,824 pounds per square inch (1 25745 x lo7 Pa) gauge. Those surveyed indicated that pressures of this magnitude are seldom experienced in the Delaware Basin, and that both one­ and two­ foot­ per­ hour pit IeveI rises would be noticed by the driller. The low rate of occurrence of abnormally pressured brine zones in the Delaware Basin (or WIPP vicinity) has been fbrther supported by information documented in the drilling records. Using databases assembled by PI and MMC, which provide well name, operator, location, total depths, casing sizes, and dates of drilling and completion, the DOE has developed a list of all oil and gas wells that have been drilled within the New Mexico portion of the Delaware Basin. Wells on this list are located in the southern portions of Eddy and Lea Counties, which are the only New 11 Mexico counties within the Delaware Basin. The well files at the OCD offices in Artesia and Hobbs, New Mexico, (the NMOCD maintains the records of wells drilled on both state and federal leases in Eddy and Lea Counties) were idso reviewed. The files record activities entered by the drillers Erom initiation of drilling to completion of a particular well. Drillers note in these reports any unusual occurrences such as abnormally pressured brine. Incidents of this type are reported in the form of daily reports. Although there is no requirement that they do so, drillers may include pressurized brine encounters in their daily reports, even if there has been no effect on drilling activities. The Texas portion of the Delaware Basin was not evaluated. The rationale for not including the Texas portion is that wells nearer the WIPP land withdrawal area are of greatest interest in determining the presence of brine within the Castile. Of a total of 3,406 well files reviewed, 28 were found to have notations by the driller indicating the encounter of pressurized brine. Another factor influencing performance assessment analysis is the time that flow fiom a pressurized zone to the surface would continue prior to the installation of the intermediate casing string. As stated previously, the intermediate casing is typically run when the Bell Canyon Formation is reached, which is approximately 4,000 feet (1,220 meters) in depth near the WIPP site. At this time, the drill string is removed from the hole and intermediate casing is run and cemented fiom 4,000 feet (1,220 meters) to the surface. Mer cementing is completed, the driller is required by regulation to wait 24 hours for the cement to set before drilling resumes. Drilling time from the repository depth at 2,150 feet (656 meters) through the remaining portion of the Salado and all of the Castile (an additional 1,250 feet; 381 meters) is calculated to be 54 hours. This number is based on drilling rates of 50­ to­ 60 feet (1 5­ to­ 1 8 meters) per hour from the base of the surface casing at 800 feet (244 meters), to the top of the Castile at 2,750 feet (838 meters) (New Mexico Junior College 1995). The drilling rate is expected to slow to 30­ to40 feet (9­ to­ 12 meters) per hour through the Castile (New Mexico Junior College 1995). Once the Bell Canyon has been entered, an additional 14 hours are typically required to remove the drill string from the hole and run and cement the 3,200 feet (976 meters) of casing. In the majority of drilling operations, the driller will be able to safely drill ahead, reach the Bell Canyon, and complete the intermediate casing, without having to resort to killing the pressure. However, if pressures encountered are great enough that the driller is forced to engage the BOP and add weight to the drilling fluid, the maximum time that flow to the surface would occur is one to two hours. Therefore, two hours represents a reasonable lower bound duration and is derived from high pressure situations where the BOP would be used to stop the flow to the surface and control the pressure by adding weight to the drilling fluids. 12 DEL. 7.6 Borehole Permeability Assessment Human intrusion scenarios evaluated in the WIPP performance assessment assume that one or more boreholes intercept the repository and that the boreholes are subsequently plugged. To support the evaluation of the potential consequences of scenarios of this type, the DOE has assessed the permeabilities that may be expected in plugged boreholes in the Delaware Basin. The permeability of the borehole plugs is important because this is a measure of the quantity of contaminated fluids that could hypothetically flow through the borehole plug. Results of this work are reported in Inadvertent Intrusion Borehole Permeability, included as Attachment 7. The DOE report summarizes plugging practices in the Delaware Basin and identifies three plugging configurations typically used in the basin: a single continuous plug through the evaporite sequence, * a two­ plug configuration that contains one plug in the Bell Canyon Formation (below the depth of potential brine reservoirs) plus one plug in the Rustier Formation (between the Culebra aquifer and the repository), and a three­ plug configuration that contains the two plugs described for the two­ plug configuration, plus an additional plug in the Salado Formation. Conclusions presented in the DOE report for each of these configurations include the following. m In the case of the single continuous plug, the permeability of the plug is expected to remain at 5 x square meters for the entire 10,000­ year period of interest. * For the two­ plug configuration, the permeability between the repository and the surface is expected to be 5 x lo­ '' square meters for a period of 200 years and lo­" square meters to 1 O­ I4 square meters after that. The plug between the Castile and the repository is expected to have a very high permeability for 200 years and values of lo­" to square meters up to 1,200 years, and to 1 O­ I5 square meters after that. With the three­ plug configuration, the permeability between the intermediate plug and the surface is expected to be 5 x meters after that. The intermediate plug is expected to have a permeability of 5 x IO­" square meters for a median time of 5,000 years, and the borehole between the Castile and the repository is expected to have values ranging from lo­" to years more, and square meters for 200 years and lo­ '' to square square meters fur 1,000 to IO­ '' square meters after that. Under all scenarios considered in the report, the permeability of the borehole plug systems never exceed that of silty sand (lo­" to lo­ '' square meters). 13 3.0 SCHEDULE­ DELAWARE BASIN DRILLING SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM The implementation of the Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program was October 1 , 1997 at the start of the fiscal year (FY98). Appendix DEL was formalized and finalized in March, 1996 for submittal in the Compliance Certification Application (CCA). From March, 1996 untiI October, 1997 no surveillance was performed in the Delaware Basin on drilling activities. The original data presented a history of when the wells were drilled and what their status was when they were drilled.. The focus now is not only when a well was drilled but what its current status is. To fill in the blank spaces an aggressive schedule (see Figure 6 ) was developed to bring the program up to date. 4.0 1998 UPDATES­ DELAWARE BASIN DRILLING SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM The information provided in this section are the results of the ongoing Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program. One of the purposes of the program is to report any deviations from the material that was provided in Appendix DEL of the CCA. 4.1 Drilling Fluids Since Appendix DEL of the CCA was finalized no changes have occurred in the drilling practices in the Delaware Basin. This was accomplished by a review of the records of all new wells drilled in the New Mexico portion of the Delaware Basin since 1995. A change in drilling practices would necessitate a change in the application of drilling fluids. The mud programs (or drilling fluid programs) have remained basically the same as what was reported in Appendix DEL. 4.2 Shallow Driliing Events Commercial sources and visits to the OCD, BLM, and State Engineer's offices are used to identify new wells. A look at the well fife will identifi whether it is a shallow event or not. Any new well drilled to a depth of less than 2,150 feet will classify the well as shallow. This applies only to wells that are located within the Delaware Basin. Most shallow events are fiom water and mineral exploration in the immediate area although no new mineral exploration has been identified in the last two years. 4.3 Deep Drilling Events In the Delaware Basin deep drilling events are usually associated with oil and gas drilling. Commercial sources and visits to the OCD offices are used to identify these events. If the total depth reached is greater than 2,150 feet it is classified as a deep drilling event. 14 4.4 Rate of Drilling in the Basin ­ 1998 The following information is derived from the databases maintained by the Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program. It depicts both shallow and deep drilling events. This information also adds to the numbers presented in the tables presented in Appendix DEL. The supplied data is current through 8/ 1/ 98. In Appendix DEL certain well types were shown but not used in the calculations for intrusion rates (WTPP boreholes). This does not occur in the updated material. One reason for this is that deleting certain holes fiom the calculations does not make much difference due to the number of holes, thus, all holes will be used in the count. HYDROCARBON HOLES Dry Hole Oil Well Gas Well OiYGas Well Drilling or Waiting on Paperwork Injection Well Salt Water Disposal Well Service Well Junked & Abandoned Hole Plugged Oil Well Plugged Gas Well Plugged Oil & Gas Well Plugged Injection Well Plugged Salt Water Disposal Well Sulfur Boreholes Potash Boreholes W P Boreholes Stratigraphic Test Holes Water Wells Salt Wells Core Holes 2,425 3,707 782 126 15 3 02 1 105 1 1 1 518 164 56 0 o_ 8,312 OTHER RESOURCE HOLES 584 0 0 1,222 1,706 8 45 3,565 1,006 1,775 584 4 46 9 37 17 41 157 76 0 8 4 3,764 0 1,005 198 2 590 4 2 1,801 TOTAL 3,43 I 5,582 1,336 130 61 311 38 I22 152 675 240 56 8 4 12,076 TOTAL 584 198 1,224 2,296 12 47 5,366 1,005 15 Total Resource Holes in the Delaware Basin 11,877 5,565 17,442 ADDITIONAL INFORMA TION l! Yuumx TOITAL Hydrocarbon holes > 2,150' deep Hydrocarbon holes < 2,150' deep S u b boreholes > 2,150' deep Potash boreholes > 2,150' deep WIPP boreholes > 2,150' deep Stratigraphic test holes > 2,150' deep Water wells >2,150' deep Salt wells > 2,150' deep Core holes > 2,150' deep 1 1,442 634 89 19 10 56 0 0 0 Total of all resource holes > 2,150' deep Total of all resource holes in the Delaware Basin 11,675 5.767 17,442 Total of all resource holes < 2,150' deep LWTRUSION RATE The intrusion rate is calculated as follows: (number of holes) X 10,000 years / area (23,102 square kilometers) / 102 years. The original calculation was for 100 years but that was through 1996. Each year that passes will show another year at the end of the formula. Doing the calculation this way yields the average and also keeps a running account of the total number of wells in the Delaware Basin. This is a more conservative method than the one shown beIow. Another way to calculate the intrusion rate is to maintain the 100 year standard. This would mean dropping all the wells drilled in the first year. At the current rate of drilling the number of welIs would actually decrease over time as the boom years of oil drilling are long gone. This would eventually lower the intrusion rate. At any one time only the number of wells driIled during the 100 year span would be accounted for. This method would not give a true accounting of what is happening in the Delaware Basin over the entire period of interest. 1998 Intrusion Rate Shallow holes = 24.47 boreholes. per square kilometer Deep holes = 49.55 boreholes per square kilometer 4.5 New Mexico Well Count and Intrusion Rate For added interest the counts and intrusion rates were re­ calculated using only the wells in the 16 New Mexico portion of the Delaware Basin. The intrusion rate worked out to be 70 holes per square kilometer utilizing all of the known deep holes. 4.6 Pressurized Brine Encounters Within the Delaware Basin 28 wells were originally identified as encountering pressurized brine in the Castile. AI1 new weirs identified since the formulation of Appendix DEL have been researched for encounters of brine. None were found to have encountered pressurized brine. 4.7 Borehole Permeability Assessment The plugging practices and requirements as identified in Appendix DEL are stil1 the same as currently being conducted in the Delaware Basin (see Figures 2 and 3). Therefore, the calculations presented in the Appendix DEL assessment have not changed. 4.8 Borehole Depths and Diameters The typical borehole depths (related to the oil bearing strata) and the diameter of the portion of the drilled hole have not changed from those which were reported in Appendix DEL. Borehole depths are variable across the Delaware Basin due to the different depths at which oil and gas are located. Hole sizes vary from well to well but several stand out as being the most commonly used by the local operators (see Figures 4 and 5 ). 4.9 New Drilling Technology Breakthrough developments in autodriller and mud system technologies have been incorporated into a series of drilling rigs that not only provide drillers and operators with the tools and means to drill wells faster and safer, but may ultimately alter drilling work processes and procedures. Utilizing this concept reduced drilling times by 37%, required no mud pits resulting in faster cleanup times, allowed for a smaller footprint which saved operator location construction costs, and enabled rigging up on small environmentally sensitive locations. Already one well has been drilled in this area utilizing this technology. 5.0 SUMMARY­ 1998 DELAWARE BASIN DRILLING SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM The Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program continues to monitor the drilling of oil and gas wells within the Delaware Basin. This information is added to the existing databases as necessary. Another ongoing process is the determination of the current status of each well within the nine townships. Any changes require updating the existing databases. Numerous changes do occur, such as operator changes, oil to injection, gas to plugged, etc. Since the finalization of Appendix DEL in the spring of 1996 there have been two very productive years in oil and gas drilling within 17 the Delaware Basin, specifically the area immediately south of the site. Since January, 1998 the price of crude oil has dropped $3.00 per barrel of oil causing the drilling rate for oil in this area to become almost non­ existent. Well status verification for the New Mexico portion of the Delaware Basin is 95% complete. 3,773 known hydrocarbon wells exist in this area. This total includes all of the wells drilled in this area since the finalization of Appendix DEL. This year the Texas portion of the Delaware Basin is scheduled to undergo the same process as was accomplished in the New Mexico portion of the Delaware Basin the last year. Due to current oil prices, this program does not expect many new wells to be drilled in this area over the next year. Since many wells will change from oil and gas to salt water disposal, injection, or plugged and abandoned status over time, verification of well status is needed to accurately monitor these resource extraction activities. 6.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE Activity will be conducted in accordance with the appropriate portions of Section 2.1. of the CAO Quality Assurance Program Document (CAO QAPD). Specifically, procedures will be followed (and prepared as needed) to assure the accurate recording of information and data taken from outside sources, and the verification of any calculations performed to develop modeling parameters from field data. When possible and practical, field verification will be conducted. Field verification shall be mandatory w i t h one mile of the WIPP site boundary. Field data wiII be recorded in permanent notebooks in accordance with CAO QAPD * 18 7.0 REFERENCES (Section 7.1.4, DOE 1996b) Chapter 7, Section 7.1.4, Effectiveness of the Active Institutional Controls Program, of the Compliance Certification Application, DOEKAO­ 1996­ 2 184, October 1996. Appendix DEL Appendix DMP Oil & Gas Journal, 96: 50, 12/ 14/ 1998 Autodriller, cylindrical mud tanks, generate breakthrough developments in drilling technologies CAO QAPD 19 Figure 1 Wipp Site, Delaware Basin, and Surrounding Area 20 AN3BRPTf 5,000 6,000 7.000 9,000 B. 250 .Ip Fasing Cemerring :or 8.625" 3.3. .I I .. 4 :so' Cerrenr ?lug 8.625" 0.9. interrneaiote Casing i NOT TO SCALE : Casing Cementing for 5.50" O. D. Production Casing 50' Cemenr ?tug %st Iron Elridge Plug I SRAPiiiC LEGEND 5.50" O. D. 2roduction Cosing . ..' . . .' . ,.,# C3ncrete .. .. . , . , 3: eel Casing Czs: l r m Figure 2 Minimum Oil and Gas Well Plugging Requirements in the Delaware Basin 21 2,000 3.000 4,000 5,000 6.000 7.000 8.000 8.250 GRAPHIC LEGEND 5.50" 0. D. Production Casing Figure 3 in the Potash Resource Area of tie &laware Basin Standard Oil and Gas Well Plu gin Practices 5 I +2325' W 4 Ln < 0 L 6075' _. . ~' :; .. ? '_. .I .. _. . .... ... .. ... .. .. ,I ,. .. .. 572 .... ...... ..: . ? ......... ... .......... y , .. .. .... .... .. .. ' .. . . 1 : . I .. .. ._ ..... ... : .. ­" .. .. , .. S L; R FAC E CASING SiZE C >t t 'ABLE AT i3WER LEFT) I ­ r­ ... ­.. .. ... ..... *OLE SIZE (SEE TABLE AT LOWER LEFT) i ' .. ..... ; .. \2 7/ 0" TUBINt lfl PERFORATIONS > CMT RETAINEF? \IOT 73 SCALE Figure 4 Typical Well Structure and General Stratigraphy Near the WlPP Site 23 I ­ I f i I ­ 3000 FT.­ i 1 2ASTILE ­ ­ ­ I / ­ 4000 FT.­ ­ 11000 Fr. 12000 Fr. 13000 FT. 14000 FT. 1 BELL CANYON I I I 1 BRUSHY CANYON I I I 30NE SPRINGS I I I ­ ­ ­ ­ 15000 FT. ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ 16000 F l . ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ '7000 FT. ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ 19000 FT. ­ OURCE: GEOLOGICAL C++ ARACTERIZA: ION QEFJORT NOT ro SCALE ~ Fgure 5 Stratigraphy for WIPP Site and Surrounding Area 24 .. Attachment D. 5 Effective Date: Cognizant Section: Mine Engineerinq Approved By: Cognizant Department: Engineering Approved By: WIPP Underground B Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES, O­ l, Rev. 1 Table of Contents ii ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS .............................................................................. .................................................................................................... I 1 .O INTRODUCTION 1 2 1.1 Background ....................................................................................................... 1.2 WlPP Surveying Historv and Accuracy Reauirements ..................................... 5 2.0 ADMiNlSPRATlON ................................................................................................. 5 2.1 Organization ..................................................................................................... 5 2.2 Responsibilities ................................................................................................ 5 2.3 Training and Qualifications ............................................................................... 5 3.0 TECHNICAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION ............................................................... 6 g Prowam ..................................................................... 7 3.1 3.2 Surface Surveyinq Program ............................................................................. 8 3.3 Subsidence Monitoring Program ...................................................................... 11 4.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE ........................................................................................ 12 4.1 Survey Equipment Control .............................................................................. 12 4.2 Procurement ................................................................................................... 12 4.3 Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings ......................................................... 12 4.4 Document Control ........................................................................................... 13 4.5 Control of Purchased Material, Equipment/ Services ...................................... 13 4.6 identification and Control of Items .................................................................. 13 4.7 Software Requirements .................................................................................. 14 4.9 Control of Nonconforming Conditionslltems ................................................... 14 4.10 Corrective Action ...................................................................................... 14 4.1 1 Records Management 15 4.1 2 Audits and Independent Assessment ....................................................... 15 4.13 Data Reduction and Verification .............................................................. 15 5.0 IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX ................................................................................ 15 5.1 WID Mine Engineerinq ................................................................................... 15 6. Q REFERENCES ...................................................................................................... .............................................................................. I round & Surface Surveying Program CCA Compliance Certification Application DOE Department of Energy FGCS Federal Geodetic Control Subcommittee GPS GIobal Positioning Survey K kilometer . mm millimeter NAD 27 NGS National Geodetic Survey QA Quality Assurance QAPD Quality Assurance Program Description PRS Project Records Service SDD System Design Description TRU Trans u ran ic WID Waste Isolation Division LVl PP North American Datum of 1927 Waste Isolation Pilot Plant WlPP Underground & Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 81, Rev. 1 1.0 1NTRODUGTION This document defines the Surveying Program and responsibilities currently being carried out by the Waste Isolation Division (WID) Mine Engineering Surveying Section. The Surveying Section's program plans and functions are designed to provide location and alignment information necessary to establish precise horizontal and vertical control for all aspects of underground and surface configuration. Surveying activities currently consist of, but are not limited to, the following: a Underground site configuration, controi, and update a Surface site configuration, control, and update a Operations and engineering support 8 Geotechnical ground control support Surface subsidence monitoring These acfivities are implemented and controlled by this document, Federal Geodetic Control Subcommittee (FGCS) standards, and #eWP A 3­ 1 WlPP Quality Assurance Program Description (QAPD). 1.1 The Surveying Program provides surveying services and information to any section or group within the W1D Engineering Department for planning, engineering andlor documentation purposes. The Surveying Program also provides basic information to other WID sections and departments so that the safe disposal of transuranic (TRU) and mixed waste can be demonstrated both in the short­ term (during the operational life of the faciiity) and in the long­ term (following decommissioning), while satisfying all regulations governing permanent isolation of the waste. The program provides construction surveying for WID engineering, planning, and documentation purposes, but does not include construction surveying for contractors. Drivers for this program include the Compliance Certification Application, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, the Mine ­Safety. and Health Act, and Waste isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) System Design Descriptions (SDDs). The program also helps ensure the facility operates safely and that the data are available to make decisions for managing and performing engineering and operational activities. Each surveying activity is controlled by this Surveying Program that describes the general scope of the survey, its methodology, and quality assurance (QA) requirements. 1 To satisfy the listed regulatory drivers, certain activities and functions are required of the Mine Engineering Surveying Section. These commitments are listed as follows: J Perform an annual subsidence monitoring survey Publish an annual report of subsidence survey data, including a comparison with prior years data 0 Maintain, replace, and expand the subsidence monument network, as required Maintain state­ of­ the­ art leveling equipment and capability ­I .2 0 Surveying was one of the first activities to take place at the WlPP site. Coordinates for the site were brought in from the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) monument ORustlerO. New Mexico State Plane Coordinates North American Datum of 1927 (NAD 27) are used at the WlPP for control. In general practice at the WIPP, these coordinates are truncated for use as the site coordinate system. To arrive at the site coordinates, 490,000 feet was dropped from the Northing and 660,000 feet was dropped from the Easting of the New Mexico State Plane Coordinates NAD 27. The base point for t h e WlPP site was the section corner common to Sections 20, 21 , 28, and 29 in T. 22 S., R. 31 E. During 1986, a surveying contractor was retained to resurvey the site to bring in coordinates and transfer them underground. Surveys were run from the NGS monuments UBerryfl and I] 5rininstool, fl using NAD 27 values. Because the originai base point had been lost, a new base point (PT 30) was chosen and new plant coordinates were calculated for all existing points. It is important to remember that plant coordinates are on a rectangular grid while State Plane Coordinates take into account that the earth is a spheroid. It is not possible to make a direct comparison of the two systems for more than one point at a time. In 1993, a resurvey of the underground was conducted. Horizontal locations were traversed, and the true bearings were checked using a gyro­ compass. Additionally, a level survey was conducted through 20 benchmarks located throughout the underground. Because of salt creep, the horizontal location points are placed in the roof on the center line of the drifts and vertical benchmarks are placed in the drift walls at approximately mid­ height of the drift. .. . The vertical surveying monitoring commitments in the Gempkscc: Cs+& ez& w Ap@ s& m+ CCAfdivides the monitoring into three phases: developmental, operational, and post­ closure. During the initial developmental phase, 31 4 kilometers of First Order, Class I survey was performed by the NGS in 1977. The NGS network was resurveyed in 1981 and the relative movement between Carlsbad and the WlPP site was measured to be about 2 centimeters. The relative motion across the network .. 2 WIPP Underground 8a Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 01, Rev. 1 was down to the east and up to the west. The 1981 NGS survey also established new survey lines that connected the previous First Order benchmarks through Carlsbad to Second Order survey lines through Eunice and Hobbs Turing this survey, benchmarks were placed over the Nash Draw from the north end tu ihe Remuda Basin, over potash mines, the WlPP site, and the San Simon Sink. Independent of the NGS work, but using the established First Order, Class 1 NGS benchmarks, an additional 52 benchmarks were installed by surveying companies working under contract to WIPP. The benchmarks were installed in a grid on approximately 1,000­ foot centers. This grid covers the WlPP planned repository and extends about 1,000 feet beyond the edge of the planned ?xtent of the waste panels. Second Order, Class I t FGCS specifications were used for these benchmarks. This work was completed in 1986. A Global Positioning Survey (GPS) was conducted in 1994 by the WlPP Site Survey Section in conjunction with a contractor. The GPS was used to check horizontal control and independently verify the Second Order, Class I I subsidence survey conducted in 1994. In 1996, the WlPP Site Survey Section, in conjunction with a contractor, performed a First Order, CIass I level survey from the Berry Monument, 20 miles east of the WlPP site. The survey went over the 52 existing subsidence monuments at the site and back to the Berry Monument. At the start of the closure phase, it is anticipated that a review of all past subsidence surveys and the adequacy of the existing subsidence stations will be conducted. New subsidence stations, if needed, will be installed to FGCS standards. A survey that achieves First Order, Class I accuracy may then be conducted. Information from this survey will be combined with published information from all previous work to form a baseline database for subsidence information in accordance with the CCA. The CCA states that this post­ closure survey is to be repeated in three years. Thence, it is to be repeated every ten years for the next 100 years, or until the Department of Energy (DOE) determines that further surveys are not required. The U. S. Department of Commerce is responsible for establishing and maintaining basic control networks for the nation. The Department of Commerce carries this out through the NGS which establishes surveys, then adjusts and publishes the results on horizontal and vertical geodetic control networks. As part of the control program, the FGCS prepares classification and standards for geodetic control surveys. The following tables outline general requirements for horizontal and vertical control. 3 WIPP Underground & Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 01, Rev. l 4 WlPP Underground & Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 04, Rev. 1 Horizontal surveys at the WlPP are conducted to FGCS accuracy standards for Second Order, Class I I surveys. The Second Order, Class 11 level of accuracy is the standard recommended for the type of surveying performed at the WlPP by the FGCS. It was also established as such by the original design basis documents and is carried through into t h e AUOO SDD. First Order, Class I results are routinely obtained by the WIPP Site Surveying Section. Subsidence surveys are carried out in the same manner as vertical surveys. In subsidence measurements, the error is determined by both the equipment used and the distances between the stations. As defined by the FGCS a First Order, Class I level survey has a maximum loop error of 4mm JK where K is the length of survey loop in Kilometers. A Second Order, Class II level survey has a maximum loop error of 8mm JK or two times the error of a First Order survey. Technoiogical advances in electronic digital levels allow the user to obtain numerical results that far exceed the minimum Second Order, Class II standard. 2.0 ADM 1 N l STRATI ON 2.1 Oraanization The organizational structure of the WID is described in ] 5 WiPF Underground & Surface Surveying Program WP09­ ES. 01, Rev. 1 WP 13­ 1. The Mine Engineering Site Surveying Section reports to the Mine Engineering Manager. The underground and surface Surveying Program is within the cognizance of the AUOO System. 2.2 The Mine Engineering Site Surveying Section cognizant engineer and staff are responsible for achieving and maintaining quality in the Mine Engineering Site Surveying S ect io n. 2.3 Personnel who perform specific tasks associated with surveying, surveying data collection, survey data reduction, and Quality Control measures are trained and qualified in the application of the specific requirements to complete their tasks. Minimum training for Engineering personnel is identified in the ­WP 09. Engineering Conduct of Operations. 3.0 TECHNICAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The VJIPP Underground and Surface Surveying Program is divided into three parts: underground, surface, and subsidence monitoring. Underground and surface surveying covers all surveying performed underground and on the surface to provide location, alignment and elevation information for all departments concerned with surface operations and TRU waste handling. Control points are maintained upon which the location, alignments, and elevations are based. This information is also used for updating existing drawings and surface maps. Subsidence monitoring provides for leveling and horizontal control of all the subsidence monuments within the 16 square miles of the surface properties (WIPP Land Withdrawal Area). These surveys are either conducted by the WlPP Surveying Section personnel, or by qualified contractorhendor personnel under the direct supervision of the WlPP Mine Engineering Surveying Section. Finally, this plan gives the Mine Engineering Surveying Section the flexibility to provide qualified surveys and survey information to any other internal WID section, provided the request is approved by the Mine Engineering manager. 3.1 Underaround Survevincl Proaram The purpose of the Underground Surveying Program is to maintain accurate location information of the underground structures and to provide alignment for new excavations. The Underground Surveying Program ensures continuing confirmation of underground configuration through surveys. These surveys generate data that are used in underground planning, underground extensions and TRU and mixed waste emplacement. Information from the surveys is used to document the existing extent, 6 WIPP Underground & Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 01, Rev. 1 size, and location of the entries crosscuts, panels, and rooms of the underground. Activities associated with this program include control surveys, level surveys, alignment point installation, grade point installation, laser alignment, and as­ found surveys. Other surveying activities are performed as needed. Underground surveying is the only way to provide information for the construction and precise location of underground structures. Because of the safety constraints inherent in handling and emplacement of TRU and mixed waste in the WIPP underground, state­ of­ the­ art surveying equipment and methods are used. The Underground Surveying Program provides information basic to the design, construction, and operation of the repository. 3.1. q Methodology Routine underground surveys are carried out in accordance with common industry practice, and in accordance with standards specified by the FGCS. Other surveys which are in development, or are not routine are performed in accordance with common industry practice, or individual program plans. a. Routine Survevs Horizontal Control Surveys ­ Horizontal Control Surveys are made as the repository is excavated to provide accurate location of existing and planned openings. Vertical Control Surveys ­ Vertical Control Surveys are made as the repository is excavated to provide precise elevation and vertical control of existing and planned openings. Alignment Surveys ­ Alignment Surveys are performed as required to provide alignment and grade points for mining operations as excavation of the repository proceeds. Alignment Surveys include the setting of laser alignment instruments to coincide with the horizontal control grade points. Mapping Surveys ­ Mapping Surveys provide information of the existing location, size, and shape of the underground structures. Location Surveys ­ Location Surveys. provide precise location information on geotechnical instruments and stationary underground structures. b. Other Underqround Surveying Activities Other underground surveying activities are performed as required. An example of other surveying activities might include a shaft piunbing survey. 7 WIPP Underground & Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 01, Rev. 1 C. All survey data are collected electronically, downloaded, and processed using approved software programs. Distribution of information is accomplished by electronic files. A hard copy is provided to a customer as required. Storage of survey information js maintained on the Survey Section's computers, and a back­ up file resides on the WIPP Intranet. A hard copy of the information is also maintained in the Survey Section files. 3.2 The purpose of the Surface Surveying Program is to maintain accurate location information of surface structures and to provide location and topographical information for planning and construction of new surface structures. The Surface Surveying Program ensures continuing confirmation of site configuration through surface surveys. These surveys generate data that is used in site planning and new surface projects. Information from the surveys is used to document the existing extent, size, and location of the site facilities as they exist. Activities associated with this program include control surveys, level surveys, and existing condition surveys. Other surveying activities are performed on an "as needed" basis. Surface surveying is the only way to provide information of the construction and precise location of facility structures. Because of the safety constraints inherent in handling of TRU and mixed waste at the WIPP, state of the art surveying equipment and methods are obtained and used. The Surface Surveying Program provides information basic to the design, construction, and operation of the surface facilities. 3.2.1 Meth odo I og y Surveys performed on a routine basis are carried out in accordance with common industry practice, and in accordance with standards specified by the FGCS. Other surveys which are in development, or are not routine are performed in accordance with common industry practice, or individual program plans. a. Routine Surveys Horizontal Control Surveys ­ Horizontal Control Surveys are made as needed for horizontal control. Vertical Control Surveys ­ Vertical Control Surveys are made as needed for vertical control , Topographic Surveys ­ Topographic Surveys are performed as required to provide 8 WIPP Underground 8 Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 61, Rev. 1 planning and construction information for surface projects. Mapping Surveys ­ Mapping Surveys provide information of the existing location, size, and shape of existing surface facilities. b. Other Surface Surveying Activities Other surface surveying activities will be performed as required. An exampie of other surveying activities might include a GPS Survey. C. Data Processing, Distribution, and Storage All survey data are collected electronicaily, downloaded, and processed using approved programs. Distribution of information is accomplished by electronic files. A hard copy is also provided to a customer, if needed. Storage of survey information is maintained on the Survey Section's computers and a backup file resides on the WlPP Intranet. A hard copy of the information is also maintained in the Survey Section's files. , 3.3 @ Subsidence is defined as the tertical movement of the land surface anywhere within a defined subs i den ce bas i n . S peci f i ca I I y , subs i den ce monitoring comprises the p re ci se measurement of the relative vertical movement of the land surface which can be in the form of uplift (upwards movement) or subsidence (downwards movement) relative to an assumed fixed reference point. The fixed reference point is assumed to be fixed since it is placed outside the subsidence basin. However, it is also subject to some of the same factors and processes that affect and cause surface movement. Thus, it may also be in motion. The techniques used to monitor subsidence measure the vertical height difference between an array of markers on the surface and is typically performed with a leveling survey. Under normal conditions, one reference benchmark (ideally, one outside the potential subsidence basin) is utilized as the standard and the relative movement of other stations or benchmarks are compared to it in order to detect vertical differential movement over a period of time. Subsidence can be caused by a number of factors. Potential examples could include mining, hydrocarbon (petroleum) exploration and production, petroleum production­ related water injection and disposal, water well drilling and completion, geoiogical deformation, and dissolution. Nash Draw is a major subsidence feature near the WIPP, caused by the dissolution of evaporites in the upper Salado and lower Rustler formations. Near the WIPP, localized mine­ induced subsidence is associated with areas where pillars were removed during second­ pass extraction in potash mines. Subsidence monitoring of the surface area over the underground excavations is a consequence of several government and WID requirements. The WlPP SDD AUOO 9 WlPB Underground 8n Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 04, Rev. 1 ­2.2.1 .e states, "The design of the mine will result in no more than one inch surface subsidence within 500 feet of the waste shaft." This is one of the original design parameters to assure protection of the WlPP surface structures. The size of the underground shaft pillar area and the layout of the WlPP mine plan is based on this parameter among others. Calculations to assure this low level of subsidence around the waste shaft were made by the WlPP architectslengineers. The AUOO SDD document is the driver for the annual subsidence survey around the WlPP shaft and is conducted according to the specifications of a Second Order, Class I I Survey as stated by the FGCS. This classification allows for a maximum of about 215 inch vertical error per mile of survey. Thus, the maximum survey error is small enough that it will not mask any subsidence that might occur within 500 feet of the Waste Shaft. The Subsidence Monitoring Program monitors vertical ground movement over the underground openings at WIPP. Monitoring stations were installed on the surface over the completed and planned underground excavations in a grid with spacing of approximately 1,000 feet. Precise level surveys are conducted annually to determifie any surface movement of the subsidence stations. Subsidence monitoring was selected by the DOE as a basic long­ term monitoring tool. The initial subsidence survey is considered as the baseline condition. Because subsidence monitoring is performed annually, it is also useful as an active institutional control (short­ term) tool. Subsidence monitoring is non­ intrusive by nature and can be related to numerical assessments. Subsidence monitoring can detect substantial and detrimental, or slight and insignificant deviations from expected repository performance by comparing current subsidence values to previous loop surveys. Subsidence monitoring can be implemented independent of site utilities, providing useful data for a reasonable cost over a relatively long time period, and requires minimum maintenance to sustain a high­ quality performance level. Subsidence monitoring provides information on vertical surface movement in mining areas due to creep closure of underground openings. This closure results in a subsidence basin on the surface the extent of which depends on the underground extraction. Establishing permanent stations over the underground openings and perjodically traversing through these stations with precise level surveys can determine the subsidence profile, provided these surveys are continued far enough into the future to allow the subsidence to reach the surface. The Backfill Engineering Analysis Report, (WEC 1994), evaluates the potential for, and predicts subsidence caused by, the mining of the WIPP's shafts, drifts, and waste disposal rooms. These calculations account for a range of emplaced waste volumes, waste densities, and backfill types. Subsidence was also calculated for conditions where no backfill would be used. 10 WPP Underground & Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 01, Rev. 'l This study predicts the maximum subsidence expected, and was performed to specifically estimate subsidence for long­ term repository performance monitoring and, as such, do not account for other factors that may influence subsidence such as local petroleum expioration and production, and potash mining. The Surveying Subsidence Program provides the capability to assess the responses of the surface and underground facility due to surface subsidence. 3.3.1 Methodology The activities associated with the Subsidence Program are designed to: Provide time­ related spatial information on surface subsidence within an area of 500 feet of the waste shaft during the operational phase of the repository 0 Provide time­ related spatial information on surface subsidence over the influence area of the underground openings with which subsidence predictions can be compared e Maintain a database of subsidence data e Provide an annual written report during the operational phase The process by which subsidence information is obtained may change with changing technology. Nothing in this plan will limit the adoption of new technology provided the performance of subsidence surveys follow the specifications described in the FGCS specifications and procedures for subsidence leveling surveys. The following are activities of the Subsidence Program: Subsidence Station Maintenance ­ Subsidence stations are maintained as needed. Restoration, replacement, and installation of new stations will be petformed according to FGCS specifications and procedures for Second Order, Class II Surveys. Testinq ­When in use, daily tests are performed on all equipment used to ensure proper operation and calibration. Subsidence Surveys ­ Subsidence surveys are performed annually until closure. After closure, in accordance with t h e CCA, subsidence surveys will be performed on the first and third year, then at ten­ year intervals for the next 100 years, or as long as DOE deems necessary. Report and Database.­ A report is generated each year that details the current subsidence survey and summarizes previous year's values. Survey information will be 11 WWP Underground 8 Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 01, Rev. 2 maintained in electronic files in two locations. Backup electronic files of the information are maintained on the WIPP Intranet. 4.8 QUAhlfY ASSU The WIPP Surveying Engineering Programs are governed by W w #lssufm­ into the technicat processes used for Surveying Engineering activities, as needed. The Mine Engineering manager, or assigned designee, is responsible for developing and maintaining this program. Surveying and subsidence surveying at the WlPP performed by qualified contractor/ vendor personnel are under the direct supervision of the WlPP Mine Engineering Site Survey Section. Vendor personnel who perform surveying­ related work must meet the following minimum standards: . Steps to ensure quality wi2 be incorporated 0 Five years experience in field surveying Demonstrated proficiency in the use of various precision leveling equipment specified for the monitoring prsgram( s) a Demonstrated proficiency in the use of various related surveying software specified for the monitoring prograrn( s) Demonstrated proficiency in the use of various GPS­ related equipment and software 4.1 Survev Equimnent Control Survey equipment processes use sound surveying/ scientific principles and appropriate standards. The WIPP's QA program and WID Engineering require that tests be performed on all equipment when in use to ensure proper operation and calibration. Surveying equipment are controlled and calibrated in accordance with WlPP procedures. Results of calibrations, maintenance, and repair will be documented. Calibration records will identify the reference standard and the relationship to national and international standards or nationally­ accepted measurement systems. Calibration reports and operability tests are maintained by the WlPP Metrology Lab, W W P 10­ AD. 01 WlPP Metrology Program requires, at a minimum of every two years or in accordance with manufacturerus recommendations, all equipment be given complete maintenance and calibration checks by approved vendor( s) or a qualified laboratory to ensure the equipment is properly calibrated and/ or in proper working condition. For subsidence measurement equipment, maintenance and calibration are performed by approved vendors in accordance with national standards. Equipment is maintained and calibrated by vendors on the WIPP QA­ approved Qualified Supplier's 12 WlPP Underground & Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 01, Rev. 1 List. The W1PP QA will process and ensure the adequacy of routine maintenance performed by the vendor. 4.2 Procurement Procurement of equipment is carried out in accordance with the appropriate poiicies and procedures for Design Class I 1 1B equipment. Technical requiren rents and services will be developed and specified in procurement documents. If deemed necessary, these documents will require suppliers to have an adequate QA program to ensure that required character ist i cs are attained . 4.3 Qual jty­ affecting activities performed by, or on behalf of, the Surveying Programs are performed in accordance with FGCS standards, WIPP­ approved work instructions, andor WIPP­ approved written plans. 4.4 Document Control The Mine Engineering manager identifies the individuals responsible for the preparation, review, and approval of Surveying Engineering controlled documents. Documents generated as a result of the subsidence surveys are reviewed by cognizant technical EngiT­ ieering perso'nnel to ensure their adequacy and accuracy. Controlled documents are reviewed in accordance with DOE and DOE/ WIPP QuaMy AsswaxeQ& Review ­ procedures. 4.5 Control of Purchased Material, EauiDmentlServices Measures are taken, in accordance with current WlPP procurement policies and procedures, to ensure that procured items and services conform to specified requirements. These measures will generally include one or more of the following: Evaluation of the supplier's capability to provide items or services, in accordance with requirements, including the previous record in providing similar products or services satisfactorily e Evaluation of objective evidence of conformance, such as supplier submittals e Examination and testing of items or services upon delivery I f it is determined that additional measures are required to ensure quality in a specific procurement, additional steps may be provided for procurement documents and implemented by Surveying Engineering personnel and/ or the Quality and Regulatory Assurance Department. These additionai assurances may include source inspection 13 WIPP Underground 86 Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 01, Rev. 1 and audits or surveillances at the supplier's facilities. Measures are used to ensure that only correct and accepted items are used at the WIPP. All items that potentially affect the quatity of the Surveying Engineering Programs will be identified and controlled to ensure traceability and prevent the use of incorrect or defective items. 4.7 Computer program testing activities that affect quality­ related activities performed by the WID or their suppliers are accomplished in accordance with approved procedures as specified by the W W P 13­ 1, Test requirements and acceptance criteria will be specified, documented, and reviewed and will be based upon applicable design or other pertinent technical documents. Required tests, including verification, hardware integration, and in­ use tests, will be controlled. Testing of software will verify the capability of the computer program to produce valid results for test probiems encompassing the range of permitted use defined by the program d o w men ta t ion. Depending upon the complexity of the computer program being tested, requirements may range from a single test of the completed computer program to a series of tests performed at various stages of computer program development to verify correct translation between stages and proper working of individual modules. This is followed by an overall computer program test. Regardless of the number of stages of testing performed, verification testing and validation will be of sufficient scope and depth to establish that test requirements are satisfied and that the software produces a valid result for its intended function. 4.8 Handling, storage, and shipping of surveying equipment will be coordinated in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. 4.9 Control of Nonconforminq Conditionslitems Conditions adverse to quality will be documented and classified with regard to their significance. Gorrective actions will be taken accordingly. 14 WIPP Underground & Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 01, Rev. 1 Equipment that does not conform to specified requirements will be controlled to prevent its use. Faulty items will be tagged and segregated. Repaired equipment will be subject to the original acceptance inspections and tests prior to use. 4.10 Conditions adverse to acceptable quality will be documented and reported in accordance with corrective action procedures and corrected as soon as practical. Immediate action will be taken to control work, and its results, performed under conditions adverse to acceptable quality in order to prevent degradation in quality. The Mine Engineering manager, or designee, will investigate any deficiencies in activities. 4.11 Records Manaqernent Identification, preparation, collection, storage, maintenance, disposition, and permanent storage of records will be in accordance with approved WlPP procedures. Generation of records will accurately reflect completed work and facility conditions while complying with statutory or contractual requirements. Records will be transferred and protected from loss and damage in accordance with w e s ­ m W P 15­ PR, WlPP Records Management Program. .c 4.12 Audits and lndemndent Assessment Planned and periodic assessments will be conducted to measure management item quality and process effectiveness, and to promote improvement. The organization performing independent assessments will have sufficient authority to carry out its responsibilities. Persons conducting technical assessments will be technically qualified and knowledgeable of the items and processes to be assessed. 4.13 Data Reduction and Verification Computer programs, commercial data processing applications, and manual calculations that collect or maniputateheduce data will be verified. Verification must be performed before the presentation of final results of their use in subsequent activities, WlJ! becomes necessary to present or use unchecked results, transmittals, and subsequent calculations will be marked "DRAFT" until such time that the results are verified and determined to be correct. 5.0 IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX 5.1 WID Mine Enaineerinq 15 WIPP Underground 8 Surface Surveying Program WP 09­ ES. 01, Rev. 1 WID Mine Engineering will be the cognizant technical organization with regard to the implementation of the WIPP Underground and Surface Surveying Program, including Subsidence Monitoring. As such, WID Mine Engineering is responsible for the perform a nce , rn e t hod0 I og y , ca 1 cu I at i o n s , and other associated activities i nvo I vi n g the collection, interpretation, and presentation of required data necessary to implement the program at the WIPP. For surface surveys outside the protected area, Mine Engineering personnel will ensure compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), if/ as applicable, prior to initiating survey activities. WID Mine Engineering is also responsible for the Annual Subsidence Monitoring Survey Report as well as all other necessary documentation. The Annual Subsidence Monitoring Survey Report will be published within each calendar year as a DOE document. 6.0 REFER Backfill Engineering Analysis Report, IT Corporation, (1 994) WP 13­ 1 , Quality Assurance Program Description Compliance Certification Application Classification, Standards of Accuracy, and General Specifications of Geodetic Control Surveys, Federal Geodetic Control Committee (now Federal Geodetic Control Subcommittee), [I 9751 1980, Reprint 16 W I October 1998 Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Table of Contents ...................................................................................................... 1 . Introduction 1 2 . Equipment ........................................................................................................ 1 3 . Office Processing ............................................................................................. 1 4 . Methodology ..................................................................................................... 1 5. t Accuracy Summary by Loop ....................................................................... 5 6 . Adjusted Level Loops ....................................................................................... 8 7 . Adjusted Elevations (1 998) .............................................................................. 9 5 . General Summary of Results ........................................................................... 4 . .............................................................................. 8 Comparison of Elevations 10 List of Tables Table 1 . Description of 1998 Leveling Loops ...................................................... 4 Table 3. Detailed Loop Measurements ............................................................... 6 Table 2. Summary of Distance and Accuracy for 1998 Leveling Loops .............. 4 Table 4 . Adjusted Elevations by Loop ................................................................. 8 Table 5 . 1998 Adjusted Elevations ...................................................................... 9 List of Figures Figure 1 . Individual Loops. Total Loop. and Underground Excavations .............. 3 I List of Acronyms DOE Department of Energy DOY Day of year FGCS Federal Geodetic Control Subcommittee M& IE Measurement and Test Equipment NGS National Geodetic Survey WID Waste Isolation Division WlPP Waste Isolation Pilot Plant References Classification, Standards of Accuracy, and General Specifications of Geodetic Control Surveys, Federal Geodetic Control Committee (now Federal Geodetic Control Subcommittee), I19751 1980, Reprint. Interim FGCS Specifications and Procedures to Incorporate Electronic Digital / Bar­ Code Leveling Systems, Federal Geodetic Control Subcommittee, ver. 4.0, dated July 15,1994. WlPP Subsidence Monument Leveling Surveys 1986­ 7997, DOE I WlPP 98­ 2293, June 1998. ii DQEWIPP 99­ 2293 I . Introduction Sections 2 through 7 of this report define the result of the 1998 leveling survey through the subsidence monuments at the WIPP site. Approximately 18 miles of leveling was completed through ten vertical control loops. The 1998 survey includes the determination of elevation on each of the 52 existing subsidence monuments and the WlPP baseline survey, and 14 of the National Geodetic Survey's (NGS) vertical control points. Digital leveling techniques were utilized to achieve better than Second Order Class I I loop closures as outlined by the Federal Geodetic Control Subcommittee (FGCS). The field observations were completed during September and October of 1998 by personnel from the Waste Isolation Division (WID) Surveying Group, Mine Engineering Section, Engineerirrg Department. Finally, Section 8 contains Table 6, which summarizes the elevations for all surveys from 1986 through 1998, inclusive. A detailed listing of the 1986 through 1997 surveys is contained in the report, WPP Subsidence Monument beveling Surveys 1986­ 1997, DOWIPP 98­ 2293. 2. Equipment The observations were taker! with the WILD NA3003 Electronic Digital Level (WIPP M& TE ID# 0999) manufactured by Leica, and bar coded leveling staffs. The calibration for the NA3003 is valid from May 20, 1998, through May 20, 2000. The data were recorded electronically on the Leica GRMI 0 REC­ Module, which is built into the instrument. In addition to the electronic record, a written field log was maintained to record information that is not stored in the electronic record. 3. Office Processing Each day the data were downloaded from the GRMIO REC­ Module to the survey group computer. The original raw data files were maintained intact, and further processing was performed on a copy of the original raw data file. Listing of the data, and the adjustment of the loops, was completed with the DIGILEV software (version 10.94d) from Leica Canada. The results, as summarized below, were extracted from the output of the DiGlLEV software. 4. Methodology The weather conditions during the observations of the 1998 survey were generally mild with moderate temperatures and light to moderate breezes. The elevations for the 1998 survey are computed from the adjusted obsa, dafions based on the elevation of the subsidence monument, S­ 37 (3,423.874 feet). S­ 37 is the monument that is furthest from the influence of the underground 1 DOWIPP 99­ 2 excavations, and has been held fixed for all of the subsidence leveling surveys since 1993. The monument, Pf­ 30, has been physically disturbed and was removed from the 1998 survey. For visual reference, Figure 1 shows a graphic display of the individual loops, the total survey, and the relationship to the underground excavations. 2 Q­ 419*.. ­ ­ .. s­ 37 e­., ' 0 . _, ........ Loop 2 . . s51 ._ .. _­ .......... ­ ­, ..... ­ .. ­. . :'s38 ­­ Legend = Survey Pmnt 0 =Shaft x­ 418 e w­ m . s43; !O ... .__.. . ............. ..*... >.. S% 'PTJO 3 , 0 PT­ 31 .y PT­ 21 ­S­ 27 Figure 1. Individual Loops, Total Survey and Underground Excavations 3 5. General Summary of Resuits (260) September 21,1998 (264) September 22, 1998 Table 1 below describes the ten leveling loops that were measured to obtain the elevations of the subsidence monuments. The table contains the start date of the observations, a loop number, and the points that are contained within the loop. Table 1. Description of 1998 Leveling Loops W418, V­ 418, S­ 41, U­ 418, Y­ 418, A­ 419, C­ 419 4 U­ 418, S­ 18, S­ 17,5­ 43,5­ 20, S­ 42, 5­ 40, S­ 21, S­ 39, S­ 19, S­ 41, U­ 418 U­ 418, T­ 418, K­ 349, S­ 46, S­ 418. K­ 349, T­ 418. 5 (265) I U­ 418 (266) October 16, 1998 (289) September 24, 1998 (267) October 15, 1998 T­ 418, S­ 16, S­ 44, T­ 418 K­ 349, 5­ 24, S­ 23, S­ 22, PT­ 31, PT­ 30, S­ 09, S­ 45, S­ 10, PT­ 32, K­ 349 K­ 349, S­ 52, S­ 24, S­ 25, S­ 26, S­ 49, S­ 48, S­ 13, PT­ 33, $12, K­ 349 S­ 418, S­ 34, S­ 33, S­ 32, S­ 27, PT­ 21, S­ 22, S­ 28. 7 8 9 Table 2 summarizes the results of the leveling loops in terms of vertical closure and accuracy. The requirement for Second Order Class 11 loop closure accuracy was achieved in all cases. (288) September 29,1998 (272) Table 2. Summa9 of Distance and Accuracy for 1998 Leveling Loops S­ 29, S­ 46, S­ 418 5­ 418, S­ 34, S­ 35, S­ 36, S­ 50, 5­ 31, S­ 47, S­ 30, 5418 10 Loop Cumulative Vertical Accuracy Allowable Distance (ft) Closure (ft.) Accuracy 4 5.1 Accuracy Surnrnav by Loop Table 3 shows a detailed summary of the observations in the leveling loops for the 1998 survey. The information in the table for each loop includes: Between each benchmark in the loop: The distance leveled between benchmarks along the loop. 0 The number of instrument setups between each of the benchmarks. The difference in elevation from each benchmark to the next. For each loop as a whole: The accuracy of leveling. The accuracy of the leveling is given in terms of feet times the square root of the length of the loop in miles. The actual accuracy of leveling is computed in the DlGlLEV software, and is based on the actual vertical closure of the loop. The maximum allowable accuracy is based on the allowable accuracy of a loop as stated in the FGCS interim specification for digital leveling. The FGCS specification for Second Order Class II loop closure permits a maximum of 8mmdKm (8mm times the square root of the length of the loop in Km). This converts to 0.033ft. dmile (0.033 feet times the square root of the length Gf t h e loop in miles) when stated in feet. All values indicated in this summary are expressed in feet. Inspection of the following tables shows that in every case the actual accuracy is well below the maximum allowable accuracy for each loop, The column in each table that is labeled "Difference" is the vertical difference from one point to the next. It is important to note that the vertical difference figures have been rounded, and a slight difference may exist in the vertical closure figure from the algebraic sum of the column. The cumulative, or total, distance of each loop. The vertical closure of the loop. Allowable accuracy for each loop. 5 DOEMIPP 99­ 2 Table 3. Detailed loop Measurements kcuracv of Leveling: 0.002 I s­ 418 I K­ 349 I 2,087 I 14 I 2.457 12.745 9.364 4.003 0.002 1,187 D­ 419 S­ 51 2.744 S­ 51 S­ 38 3.61 1 24 ­0.632 A. .­ A ­~ 5­ 38 1 11334 I 10 :umulative Distance: 9,533 DHfeF3, nCi ­7.297 ­0.81 5 ­8.273 7.249 3.687 1.81C 3.730 4.359 6.81 5 ­1 1.170 ­0.088 Setups 6 2 6 8 10 8 6 4 6 10 14 lertical Closure: iccuracy of beveling: illowable Accumcv: 0 .m S­ ol s­ 03 180 595 0.044 s­ 53 1.238 0.000 I s 4 3 1 E 1 s­ 45 m­ IO 1,195 PT­ 1 0 S­ 14 1.193 S­ 14 S­ 15 1,000 S­ 15 T­ 418 444 Loop 3 Distance 1,418 955 532 41 5 1,225 596 579 61 1 404 244 2,395 2,164 2,371 13,910 A­ 41 9 setups 10 6 4 4 8 4 4 4 4 2 20 16 16 4.895 1 FX I 1 595 0.561 1,176 5.800 T­ 418 1,749 4.010 Cumulative Distance: 10,164 ­9.1 15 Vertical Closure: 6.694 Accuracy of Leveling: A419 Y­ 347 Y­ 347 2­ 41 8 2­ 418 Y­ 418 Y­ 418 X­ 418 X­ 418 ,W­ 418 V­ 418 s­ 41 U­ 418 Y­ 418 Y­ 418 A41 9 w­ 418 w i a s­ 41 u­ 41 a ­0.130E 0.00: 0.04E table Accuracy: _. . 1 1y Loop 7 Distance 915 To S­ 24 S­ 23 s­ 22 PT­ 31 PT­ 30 S­ 09 s­ 45 s­ 10 PT­ 32 K­ 349 Distanec: ­2.09f ­8.142 ­2.677 7.71 E 1.231 ­0.14s ­0. m 0.00: ­17.083 S­ 24 0.002 PT­ 31 1,026 1,065 1,430 1,022 169 1.011 1.010 685 988 9,321 Cumulative Distance: Vertical Closure: Accuracy of Leveling: Distance setups 4 8 6 6 6 4 10 14 6 2 a From W 1 8 51 8 S I 7 s 4 3 s 2 0 5­ 42 SA0 s­ 2 1 5 3 9 s­ 19 To s­ fa S I 7 S­ 43 5 2 0 s42 S­ 40 s­ 2 1 s­ 39 s­ 19 S­ 41 1,112 706 696 598 1,332 1,132 1,836 757 245 9,739 ala 10.533 6.1 02 6.191 7.505 ­3.810 ­1 1.983 4.752 ­4.622 5­ 41 U418 Cumulative Distance: Vertical Closure: ­0.007 0.005 I Accuracy of Leveling: Table 3 continued on next page.. (. 6 DOENYIPP 99­ 2293 Table 3. Detailed Loop Measurements (continued) S­ 24 S­ 25 S­ 26 s­ 49 S­ 48 S­ 13 PT­ 33 s­ 12 K­ 349 Iistance: Vertical Closure: To S­ 34 s­ 33 5­ 32 S­ 27 PT­ 21 s­ 22 S28 S­ 29 S­ 46 S­ 418 1,079 1,032 1,024 94 1 1,013 1,007 527 547 904 8,326 Setups 1 Difference 2 i 3.376 ­5.469 5.823 11.981 12.716 0.678 ­10.924 ­2.473 Accuracy of Leveling: 0.004 Allowable Accuracy: 0.041 LOOP 3 From Distance S­ 418 1,086 S­ 34 s­ 33 S­ 32 5­ 27 PT­ 21 s 2 2 S­ 28 S­ 29 ­ ­_._ ­ ­ ­­.­­ S­ 46 1,025 1,066 1,303 83 1,438 1,592 983 699 1,016 10.291 ­0.005 Cumulative distance: K c l o s u r e : Setups 8 8 8 10 1 10 11 7 5 7 Difference ­9.648 ­1 3.039 ­5.575 13.796 ­3.361 3.864 5.587 6.722 ­0.184 1.840 ­0.002 0.002 =pc ­ Loop 10 3istance I Setup 1 Difference F­ 1.132 I 8 I ­9.647 s­ 47 S­ 30 5­ 30 S­ 418 hmulative Distance: dertical Closure: 4ccuracy of Leveling: 4llowable Accuracy: 1,059 8.450 1,015 9.024 1,517 16.301 966 ~ '; 1 ­1 3.589 745 ­3.069 608 4 ­5.179 795 ­2.282 7,837 ­0.008 0.007 0.@ 40 7 I 6. Adjusted Level Loops Table 4 is a summary of the adjusted elevations for the ten loops measured in 1998. This has been extracted from the output of the DlGlLEV software. Table 4. Adjusted Elewations by L O Q ~ ,_­,­ ­a I ;>­ 3: 1 3404.172 3416.916 U­ 418 3426.279 1 (2­ 419 I 3437.648 1 3395.887 3387.744 1 S­ 35 I 3400.516 8 DOEIWIPP 39­ 2293 7. Adjusted Elevations (1 998) Table 5 shows the adjusted elevations for the subsidence monuments and the NGS points contained within the 1998 survey. These elevations are normalized to the monument, S­ 37. All elevations are shown in feet, and are within the WiPP local system. Table 5. 1998 Adjusted Elevations 9 I 8. Comparison of Elevations Table 6 compares the elevations from all of the subsidence leveling surveys from I986 through 1998. Table 6. Comparison of Etevations 19864998 Note: (1) The subsidence monument, S­ 02 was relocated in 1989. (2) The subsidence monument, S­ 02, no longer exists after the 1992 survey. (3) The subsidence monument, S­ I 1, no longer exists after the 1992 survey. Table 6 continued on next page ... 10 DOENVlPP 99­ 2293 Table 6. Comparison of Elevations 1986­ 1998 (continued) Note: (4) The subsidence monument, 5­ 54, no longer exists after the 1992 suwey. (5) The monument, PT­ 30, has been physically disturbed and was removed from the 1998 survey. Table 6 continued on next page ... 11 I ? 12 Attachment D. 6 Other Reviewed Table 7­ 7. Preclosure and Postclosure Monitored Parameters Preclosure X / x l x i Monitored Parameter Culebra groundwater composition Culebra change in groundwater flow I ­. ­ ___ ­ ~ 4 L Probability of encountering a Castile brine reservoir v" / Qilling rate 4 d bbsidence measurements x i i A X F a t e activity ... . .. . . i Creep closure and stresses Li Extent of deformation 4 x Initiation of brittle deformation 4 x i t i t j X Displacement of deformation features !I/ X i EEMENTATION OF' WIPP LONG­ TERM MONITORING PROGRAMS J ~~~~~~~ n~~ Monitoring ­ The program that monitors this data is implemented by WP 09­ ES. 01, Revision 0, WPP Underground & Suflace Su­ rveying Program, that was effective January 23, 1998. Subsidence measurements are taken at monitoring stations installed on the surfslce above the completed and planned WlPP underground excavations. Since 1992 regular subsidence measurements hwe been taken and they will continue to be conducted annually. 4 ­ The program that monitors this data is implemented by WP 05­ WAOZ, Revision 0, WPP Wmte r ~~~~t i o ~ System Program, that was effective on April 15, 1997. Since DOE has not begun disposal of waste yet, no actud data representing waste disposed of at WIPP has been entered into the computerized waste information system. However, =data have been put into the system and reports have been run to vernfy the system is functional. Information will be entered into the data system by the generator sites as they ship waste to W P for disposal. ile Brine Reservoir ­ The program that monitors this data is implemented by WP 02­ PC. 02, Revision 0, Delwm& ' Basin Drilrilzg Suweillmce Plan, that was effective on March 27, 1998. Information is gathered as records are filed with the appropriate agency and data is gathered from these records and put into a database. The database includes records of drilling activity (including borehole depth, diameter, and type), well conversion activities, occurrences of pressurized brine in the Castile formation, injection well operation, plugging and abandonment (including descriptions of plugging configurations), and identity of well ownership. Information gathering activities began in late 1995. Culebra Ground Water Composition and Culebra Ground Water Flow ­ The program that monitors this data is implemented by WP 02­ 1, Revision 3 , Groundwater' that was effective on March 12, 1996. Sa groundwater composition and nd water flow. The current su 1996, however, an early program dates back to 1985. Creep Closure and Stresses, Extent of Deformation, Initiation of Brittle Deformation. and Disulacement of Deformation Features ­ The program that monitors this data is implemented by WP 07­ 01, Revision 2, WPP Geotechnical Engineering v' Program Plan, that was effective on March 16, 1998. Data is collected by a network of instruments including tape and borehole extensometers, convergence meters, rockboit load cells, pressure cells, crack meters, strain gauges, and piezometers. Data is logged either remotely by data loggers, or manually. The measurement program began in 1983 and is conducted at least quarterly. A comprehensive report containing the results of the data analysis is published annually. Attachment D. 4 Drilling Related Documents Reviewed I Working Copy Effective Date: 3/ 27/ 97' WP 02­ PC. 02 Revision 0 Cognizant Section: Long­ Term Reauiatory Compliance Approved By: Sianature on File ­ R. J. Leonard Cognizant Department: Environment. Safety. and Wealth Approved By: sin Driliing Surveillance Plan WP 02­ PC. 02. Rev . 0 TABLE OF CONTENTS ACRONYMS ......................................................... ii 1.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................. 9 2.0 PURPOSE ...................................................... 2 3.0 IMPLEMENTATION ............................................... 3 4.0 ACTIVITIES ..................................................... 3 4.1 Texas Portion of t h e Delaware Basin .............................. 3 4.2 New Mexico Portion of the Delaware Basin .......................... 3 4.3 Nine­ Township Area Information .................................. 4 4.4 General Database Maintenance .................................. 5 5.0 REPORTS ....... .................... ......................... 5 6.0 QUALITYASSURANCE ............................................ 5 REFERENCES ....................................................... 5 FlGBiRE 1 SURVEILLANCE AREAS WITHIN THE DELAWARE 8ASIN ......... 7 I 'Warking Copy Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Pian WP 02­ PC. 02, Rev. 0 BLM CAO CCA CFR DOE EPA OCD QAPD WiPP Bureau of Land Management Carlsbad Area Office Compliance Certification Application Code of Federal Regulations U. S. Department of Energy Environmental Protection Agency State of New Mexico Oil Conservation Division Quality Assurance Program Description Waste Isolation Pilot Plant ii Working Copy Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Pian WP 02­ PC. 02, Rev. 0 1 .O INTRODUCTION The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) environmental standards for the management and disposal of transuranic radioactive waste are codified in Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 191 (EPA 1993). Subparts €3 and C of the standard address the disposal of radioactive waste. The standard requires that the Department of Energy (DOE) demonstrate through the use of a probabilistic risk assessment that the disposal system will function to contain radioactivity below specified release limits considering the effects of reasonably expected human­ initiated and natural processes and events. This includes the consideration of inadvertent drilling into the repository at some future time. The EPA provided criteria in 40 CFR § 194.33 that addressed the consideration of future deep and shallow drilling in performance assessments. These criteria lead to the formulation of conceptual models that incorporate the effects of these activities. These conceptual models use parameter values drawn from the databases in Appendix DEL of the Compliance Certification Application (CCA). In accordance with these criteria, the DQE used the historical rate of drilling for resources in the Delaware Basin to calculate a future drilling rate. In particular, in calculating the frequency of future deep drilling, 40 CFR § 194.33( b)( 3)( I)( EPA 1996) provided the following guidance to the DOE: Identify deep drilling that has occurred for each resource in the Delaware Basin over the past 100 years prior to the time at which a compliance application is prepared. The DOE used the historical record of deep drilling for resources below 2,150 feet (656 meters) that has occurred over the past 700 years in the Delaware Basin. In the past 100 years, deep drilling for oil, gas, potash, and sulfur exploration has occurred. All of these drilling events were used in calculating the rate of deep drilling within the controlled area (the 16­ section Land Withdrawal Boundary) and throughout the basin in the future, as discussed in Appendix DEL of the CCA. Historical drilling for purposes other than resource exploration and recovery (such as WlPP site investigatio?) were excluded from the calculation in accordance with guidance provided in 40 CFR 3 194.33. In calculating the frequency of future shallow drilling, 40 CFR § 194.33( b)( 4f( I) states that the DOE should: Identify shallow drilling that has occurred for each resource in the Delaware Basin over the past 100 years prior to the time at which a compliance application is prepared. 1 I Working Copy Delaware Basin Drilling Suweillance Plan WP 02­ PC. 02, Rev. 0 An additional criterion with respect to the calculation of Future shallow drilling rates is provided in 40 CFR 194.33( b)( 4)( iii): In considering the historical rate of all shallow drilling, the Department may, if justified, consider only the historical rate of shallow drilling for resources of similar type and quality to those in the controlled area. The only resources present at shallow depths (less than 2,150 feet 1655 meters) below the surface) within the controlled area are water and potash. Thus, consistent with 40 CFR § 194.33( b)( 4), the DOE used the historical record of shallow drilling associated with water and potash extraction in the Delaware Basin in calculating the rate of shallow drilling within the controlled area. The EPA provides further criteria concerning the analysis of the consequence of future drilling events in performance assessments in 40 CFR 5 194.33( c)( EPA 1996). Consistent with these criteria, the following parameters regarding drilfing were also included in the performance assessment as documented in Appendix DEL of the CCA: Types of drilling fluids Amounts of drilling fluids Borehole depths Borehole diameters E3orehole plugs Fraction of such boreholes that are sealed by humans Natural processes that will degrade plugs Instances of encountering pressurized brine in the Castile Formation The DOE will continue to provide surveillance of the drilling activity in the Delaware Basin in accordance with the criteria established in 40 CFR 5 194 during the operational phase and will continue until the DOE and EPA agree that no further benefit can be gained from continued surveillance. The results of this surveillance activity will be used in performance assessment calculations performed in support of recertification. 2.0 PURPOS The purpose of the Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan is to provide for active surveillance of drilling activities within the Delaware Basin (see Figure I), with specific emphasis on the nine­ township area that includes the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) site (Figure I). The surveillance of drilling activities will build on the data presented in Appendix DEL and comply with the activities presented in Appendix DMP of the CCA, which were used to develop modeling assumptions for performance assessment. The collection of additional information on drilling patterns and practices in the Delaware Basin will be used to define whether the drilling scenarios in the application continue to b e valid ai ,ach five­ year recertification time for the WIPP. 2 working copy Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan WP 02­ PC. 02, Rev. 0 Surveillance of drilling activities within the Delaware Basin will be implemented no later than the beginning of the operational phase. This activity will continue until 100 years after closure or until the DOE can demons'. .de to the EPA that there are no significant concerns to be addressed by further surveillance, as discussed in Chapter 7, Section 7.1.4, Effectiveness of the Active Institutional Controls Program, of the CCA, DOE/ CAO­ 1996­ 2184, October 1996. Beginning no later than the initiation of the operational phase and continuing through post­ closure, driliing activities within the Delaware Basin will be tracked using commercially available databases. Drilling activities related to hydrocarbon resources, potash boreholes, and water welts that occur within the nine­ township area, will be more rigorously monitored using the commercial databases and the drilling records maintained by both state and federal organ iza t io n s . 4. Q ACTIVITIES 4.1 Texas Portion of the Delaware Basin Data on drilling activities as related to hydrocarbon resources, sulfur boreholes, and water wells that occur within the Texas portion of the Delaware Basin will be speeificalIy collected and recorded by Long­ Term Regulatory Compliance on a monthly basis. The data will be collected from commercial databases and will be verified from state and federal records as necessary. This data (to the extent it is not proprietary) will be added to the existing visual database established for the CCA. The specific activities in the Texas area (see Figure 1) that will be tracked on a monthly basis are as follows: New drilling activities (deep and shallow) Abandonment activities (when plugged) Type of well (oil, gas, sulfur, water, etc.) 4.2 New Mexico Portion of the Delaware Basin Data on drilling activities related to hydrocarbon resources, sulfur boreholes, and water wells that occur within the New Mexico portion of the Delaware Basin will be specifically collected and recorded by Long­ Term Regulatory Compliance on a monthly basis. The data will be collected from commercial databases and will be verified from state and federal records. This data (to the extent it is not proprietary) will be added to the existing visual database and a database of New Mexico wells established for the CCA. 3 Woiking Copy Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan WP 02­ PC. 02, Rev. 0 The specific activities in the New Mexico area (see Figure 1) that will be tracked on a monthly basis are as follows: New drilling activities (deep and shallow) Abandonment activities (when and how plugged) Type of weli (oil, gas, sulfur, water, etc.) Occurrences of pressurized brine within the Castile Formation Injection well operation (disposal and secondary recovery) Solution well mining (salt and potash) * * 0 0 * 4.3 Nine­ Township" Area Information Data on drilling activities related to hydrocarbon resources, potash boreholes, and water wells that occur within the Delaware Basin portion of the nine­ township area (see Figure) will be specifically collected and recorded by bong­ Term Regulatory Compliance on a monthly basis. The data will be collected from commercial databases and from state and federal records. This data (to the extent it is not proprietary) will be added to the existing visual and New Mexico wells databases established for the CCA. The specific activities in the nine­ township area that will be tracked on a monthly basis are as follows: New drilling activities (of any kind, both deep and shallow) e Abandonment activities (when and how plugged) * Type of well (oil, gas, sulfur, water, ete.) * Occurrences of pressurized brine within the Castile Formation Injection well operation (disposal and secondary recovery) Solution well mining (salt and potash) Maintenance of databases for incidences of non­ compliance with Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and State of New Mexico Oil Conservation Division (OC) rules as information is recw ied in the files maintained by the BLMIOCD e Identification of ownership (through BLMIOCD records monitoring) of all state and federal minerals and hydrocarbon leases within the area 4 Working Copy Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan WP 02­ PC. 02, Rev. 0 4.4 General Database Maintenance Long­ Term Regulatory Compliance will maintain and update, on a monthly basis, the databases of the Delaware Basin established for the CCA, in an electronic format. The visual database (an electronic map of the defined area) will reflect the current status of ail known wells in the Delaware Basin. Maps of the Delaware Basin wiil be published as needed from this visual database. The New Mexico well database will be in a database format that will contain the same information as the visual database and will include much more detailed information on the wells in the New Mexico portion of the Delaware Basin. 5.0 REPORTS Data will be reviewed annually to ensure there are no substantial and detrimental deviations from the assumptions used in the perfdrrnance assessment documented in the CCA. An annual report will then be prepared and included with other environmental data and will be provided to the DOE and made available to the EPA. Every five years, information will be summarized for input into the recertification process as defined in 40 CFR 5 194.15 (EPA 1996). 6.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE Activities will be conducted in accordance with the appropriate sections of WP 13­ 1, WID QAPD. Specifically, an outside source (the Waste Isolation Division Quaiity and Regulatory Assurance Department) will randomly select a minimum of 20 wells from a map of the Delaware Basin. They will verify that the information contained in the two databases; the visual and New Mexico wek, matches the information prorided from the commercial databases and records $rom the state and federal agencies. When possible and practical, field verification will be conducted only within the nine­ township area and only to the extent to verify the actual condition of the well. Field verification recorded in permanent notebooks will be done in accordance with WP 13­ 1, WID QAPD. REFERENCES EPA, 1993. 40 CFR § Part 191: Environmental Standards for the Management and Disposal of Spent Nuclear Fuel, High­ Level and transuranic Radioactive Wastes; Final Rule. Federal Register, Vol. 58, No. 242, p. 66398. December 20, 1993. Office of Radiation and Air, Washington, D. C. €PA, 1996. 40 CFR Pa& 194: CritePia for the Certifi Waste Isolation Pilot Plant's Compliance with the 40 CFR Part 191 Disposal Regulations; Final Rule. Federal Register, Vol. 61 , pp. 5224­ 5245, February 9, 1996. Office of Radiation and Indoor Air, Washington, D. C. & M c a t i o n of the 5
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{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0012-0189/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0135
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0135/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0136
Supporting & Related Material
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0136/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0137
Supporting & Related Material
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{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0137/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0138
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-05T05:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0138/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0139
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-12T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0139/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0140
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-12T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0140/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0141
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-24T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0141/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0142
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-24T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0142/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0143
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-19T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0143/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0144
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-19T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0144/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0145
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-19T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0145/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0146
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-19T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0146/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0147
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-05-01T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0147/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0148
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-05-01T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0148/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0149
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-29T04:00:00"
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{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0149/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0150
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-05-07T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0150/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0151
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-19T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0151/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0152
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-12T04:00:00"
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{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0152/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0153
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-05-21T04:00:00"
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{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0153/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0154
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-05-30T04:00:00"
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{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0154/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0155
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-05-30T04:00:00"
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regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0155/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0156
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-06-24T04:00:00"
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{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0156/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0157
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-07-17T04:00:00"
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{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0157/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0158
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-03-28T05:00:00"
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2024-06-07T20:31:39.729127
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0158/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0159
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-03-28T05:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.729960
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0159/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0160
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-03-28T05:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.730651
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0160/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0161
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-03-28T05:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.731330
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0161/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0162
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-12T04:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.731959
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0162/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0163
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-12T04:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.732751
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0163/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0164
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-24T04:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.733699
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0164/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0165
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-24T04:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.734457
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0165/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0166
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-19T04:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.735215
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0166/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0167
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-19T04:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.735926
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0167/content.txt" }
EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0168
Supporting & Related Material
"2002-04-19T04:00:00"
null
epa
2024-06-07T20:31:39.736730
regulations
{ "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://downloads.regulations.gov/EPA-HQ-OAR-2001-0014-0168/content.txt" }