Determination of NOx LAER for Mid Range (1 - 10 MW) Landfill Gas Fueled Power Plants-New Jersey Experience

摘要

Landfill gas (LFG) is a valuable source of alternate energy which is becoming more attractive with energy deregulation and with incentives to develop renewable sources. Beyond economics new federal rules (NSPS and MACT) require LFG collection and control systems at new and existing major landfills to destroy non-methane organic compounds (NMOC) in the LFG. NMOC contains multiple hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) and odor forming compounds. The methane presents health hazard and environmental hazards. These noxious qualities can be mitigated and useful energy produced by combusting landfill gas in a landfill-gas-to-energy (LFGTE) power plant. However, as with most fuel combustion, NOx, as an ozone precursor, and other products of combustion are formed, presenting another set of environmental concerns. Since NJ is located in a severe ozone non-attainment area, LFGTE power plants generally will trigger Non-attainment New Source Review (NNSR) requirements for NOx, including Lowest Achievable Emission Rate (LAER) technology. Recent NJ experience with LAER determinations for LFGTE power plants are presented. For the LAER class "producing energy from landfill gas" emissions that are, "achieved in practice,"for reciprocating engines and turbines with applicable emission controls were compared to determine LAER. Bhandutia, Bruckman, Kuehne and Shah A&WMA annual meeting, Orlando, Florida June 26, 2001 Abstract No. ,789, Session No. El-2a. Combustion Turbines: Air Toxics and the MACT Combustion turbines are generally regarded as lower NOx emitters than equivalent reciprocating engines, but test results indicated no significant difference when NOx emissions were compared on an output basis. When thermal efficiency was factored in, reciprocating engines were found to be superior to turbines. Beyond prime mover selection, the technical feasibility of add on emission controls was also weighed to determine LAER. The information presented partially updates and expands on the relevant environmental compliance sections of the USEPA Landfill Gas Outreach Program, Landfill Gas to Energy Development Handbook. This topic should be of interest to project developers and permitting authorities involved with siting LFGTE power plants in non-attainment areas.