US | EPA to Reevaluate Steam Electric Power Effluent Guidelines

EPA reviewed the 2020 Steam Electric Reconsideration Rule as part of Executive Order 13990. It has decided to initiate a notice of proposed rulemaking for public comment in Fall 2022 to determine whether more stringent limitations and standards are appropriate. While EPA is reconsidering the rule, the 2015 rule, as amended by the 2020 rule, remains effective. During the rulemaking process, EPA will evaluate whether membrane treatment systems should serve as the basis for the “best available technology economically achievable” to control pollutants found in flue gas desulfurization wastewater discharges. Additionally, EPA is considering whether the 2020 rule’s requirements relative to bottom ash transport water and the three subcategories, which have less stringent limits, are warranted. ____________________ Sources EPA, Proposed Rule, Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Steam Electric Power Generating Point Source Category, 86 FR 41801, Aug. 3, 2021