Environmental compliance

The air quality control systems installed and in use in the facility were designed to ensure that atmospheric emissions comply with all applicable EPA New Source Performance Standards (NSPS). Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) constantly measure the amount of nitrogen oxides (NO x ), carbon monoxide (CO), and opacity of gases exiting the stacks. Once a year, these monitors are subjected to Relative Accuracy Test Audits following a specific protocol approved by EPA and EQB. Both EPA and EQB are required to be advised of the dates the tests will be performed, in order to allow them the opportunity to be present.

The emissions of particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, and CO from each turbine/HRSG are controlled by ensuring complete and efficient combustion of the fuel in the gas turbine. The natural gas and propane used contain only traces of non-combustible material; in addition, the turbine inlet air is filtered.

Treated wastewaters, mostly consisting of sea water cooling tower water, are discharged to the Guayanilla Bay through Outfall 001 permitted under an EPA NPDES Permit.

Extensive biological, physical and chemical studies have been conducted in the discharge area. The data obtained demonstrates that the long-term effect of EcoEléctrica's intake/discharge system on the marine environment is insignificant. EcoEléctrica is and has been in full compliance with the Puerto Rico Environmental Quality Board Water Quality Standards.

In terms of storm water discharges, EcoEléctrica is a zero discharge facility. All non-contact storm waters are directed to two storm water retention ponds for evaporation.

Permitting Process

In order to construct and operate the project, approximately 60 permits had to be obtained from Federal, State, and local agencies. Additional permits and renewals continue to be obtained as per State and Federal regulatory requirements. Most of these permits have extensive monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting requirements.