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.
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“We hit a new summer peak and it’s likely we’ll hit higher peaks as the week progresses,” said AESO spokeswoman Tara De Weerd.
“We continue to have ample supply, our generators are very confident there aren’t any issues.”
That new peak was set at 4 p.m. but De Weerd said it was likely to be exceeded later in the day.
Heightened air conditioner use is normally a major driver of such peak electricity consumption, said De Weerd.
She…
