The anticipated industrial boiler maximum achievable control technology rule (IB MACT) would regulate emissions of hazardous air pollutants, such as certain acid gases, organics, metals, and possibly other pollutants, from industrial boilers and may affect biomass boilers like the one planned for Plant Mitchell.
Jeff Burleson, director of resource policy and planning at Georgia Power, said: “Georgia Power is committed to furthering the development of renewable energy in Georgia. We’re disappointed to have to delay this large biomass project and the benefits it can deliver. However, by delaying capital spending on the project we’re significantly reducing the cost risk to customers.”
Georgia Power had originally planned to begin retrofit construction at Plant Mitchell in April 2011 with the unit becoming operational in June 2012. A new project schedule has yet to be determined.
Once the new EPA rules are better defined, Georgia Power will evaluate the potential impact they might have on the conversion project at Plant Mitchell. The company plans to study other boiler technologies in the event the rules impact the cost of the biomass boiler conversion currently planned for the plant.
Upon conversion, Plant Mitchell will have lower fuel and operating costs when compared to continued operation using coal, making the plant more cost-effective for customers, Georgia Power said.
