Methodology to Assess Air Quality Impacts of Distributed and Backup Generation

Summary

SCH Number
2001108122
Public Agency
California Energy Commission
Document Title
Methodology to Assess Air Quality Impacts of Distributed and Backup Generation
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
10/4/2001
Document Description
The present California power crisis is creating an urgent need to look for ways to produce significant amounts of electricity in the near term. Conservation and possibly the use of distributed generation (DG), including existing little-used backup generators (BUGs), is under active considration as a possible short-term solution for mitigating the number and extent of shortages. The use of BUGs or any or form of distributed generation is feasible only if it is possible to avoid potentially significant adverse environmental impacts. Existing diesel BUGs have almost no modern emission controls and can be the source of significant amounts of particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. The purpose of this project is to develop the methodologies to evaluate the air quality impacts of DG by using the existing population of diesel BUGs as a surrogate representation. In paticular, provide quantifiable, objective data for decision-makers concerning the potential: (1) air quality impacts of the use of significant numbers of BUGs, (2) mitigating likely air quality impacts associated with the use of large numbers of BUGs, (3) the costs and logistics of bringing these units into operation in a short time frame, (4) ways to effectively dispatch the use of these units to address electricity demands and environmental concerns, (5) regulatory constraints to bringing BUGs into non-emergency use, and (6) problems and issues associated with including BUGs owners to bring their units into service.

Contact Information

Name
Nancy Libonati
Agency Name
California Energy Commission
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency

Location

Cities
Riverside
Counties
Riverside
Other Location Info
1200 Columbia Ave. Riverside, CA 92507

Notice of Exemption

Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
Section 15306
Reasons for Exemption
This PIER contract is for basic data collection, research, experimental management, and resource evaluation activities that do not result in major disturbamce to an environmental resource.

Disclaimer: The document was originally posted before CEQAnet had the capability to host attachments for the public. To obtain the original attachments for this document, please contact the lead agency at the contact information listed above. You may also contact the OPR via email at state.clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov or via phone at (916) 445-0613.

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