Comments wanted on coal combustion byproducts
MDE has proposed regulations to control the disposal of coal combustion byproducts (CCBs) and the use of CCBs in mine reclamation. No federal program exists to regulate the management of these materials. MDE is proceeding in the absence of federal requirements to protect public health and the environment.
CCBs include fly ash, bottom ash, scrubber sludge and other byproducts generated by coal combustion.
Coal combustion facilities in Maryland produce about 2 million tons of coal ash annually. This rate of generation is expected to continue, according to MDE. Scrubber sludge to be generated by flue gas desulphurization pollution control technology is expected to be produced at a rate of about 2.5 million tons annually.
The Environmental Protection Agency has been working on regulations to control the management of coal combustion byproducts since 2000.
Energy companies that burn coal to generate electricity generate CCBs. Also, one major manufacturer in Maryland operates its own power plant using coal to generate electricity for its own needs.
Related News
NDP takes aim at approval of SaskPower 8 per cent rate hike
REGINA - The NDP Opposition is condemning the provincial government’s decision to approve the Saskatchewan Rate Review Panel’s recommendation to increase SaskPower’s rates for the first time since 2018.
The Crown electrical utility’s rates will increase four per cent this fall, and another four per cent in 2023. According to a government news release issued Thursday, the new rates will result in an average increase of approximately $5 on residential customers’ bills starting on Sept. 1, 2022, and an additional $5 on April 1, 2023.
“The decision to increase rates is not taken lightly and came after a thorough review by the…
