EPA Proposed New MACT Rules for Industrial Boilers

On Dec. 23, 2011, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed changes to the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Major Sources: Industrial, Commercial and Institutional Boilers and Process Heaters (the Boiler MACT) Rule. On the same day, EPA also proposed changes to a similar rule that applies to industrial commercial and institutional boilers and process heaters at area sources (the "Area Source Boiler NESHAP").

In the publication of both proposed rules, EPA solicited public comments relating to the proposed changes. Comments must be received on or before Feb. 21, 2012. If adopted, these proposed rules would amend the Boiler MACT and Area Source Boiler NESHAP rules that were issued by EPA on March 21, 2011. EPA issued a Notice of Reconsideration for the Boiler MACT and the Area Source Boiler NESHAP on the same day the rules were issued, and several petitioners also sought reconsideration of both rules. The new proposals