December 11, 2024

Understanding Air Permits for Emergency Generators in New Jersey

Emergency generators are instrumental in providing continuous power supply during outages and safeguarding critical operations. However, generators emit toxic gases that negatively affect air quality and public health.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) acknowledges this risk and mandates operators to acquire a permit for the utilization of certain emergency generators. Following these rules enables businesses to fulfill their environmental responsibilities.

Obtaining air permits helps businesses adhere to NJDEP permit compliance and mitigate adverse environmental impacts when using emergency generators. Air permits establish specific emission limits and requirements that aid in emission control. This regulatory framework helps verify that generator emissions remain within allowable levels, reducing the potential harmful effects on air quality and public health.

There are various types of air permits for emergency generators. The GP-005A, or the General Permit for Emergency Generator Burning Distillate Fuels, is one type of air permit. This permit applies to minor facilities using single or multiple generators that burn distillate fuel. It covers generators with a maximum rated heat input of less than 100 MMBTU/hr.

The GOP-003, or the General Operating Permit, is an air permit that is applicable to major facilities. It covers a single emergency generator with a maximum heat input rate of 30 MMBTU/hr or less. Furthermore, this permit applies to compression ignition emergency generators that burn No. 2 fuel oil, diesel fuel, or kerosene. These fuels must contain a maximum of 0.0015 percent (15 parts per million) of sulfur by weight. Identifying the right permit to apply for is imperative to demonstrate compliance and avoid legal consequences.

Maintaining good air quality and safeguarding public health are paramount for communities and organizations. Achieving air permit compliance with the help of a professional air permit consultant NJ allows entities to effectively adhere to regulatory standards and minimize their environmental impact. This proactive approach can significantly contribute to building a healthier environment.

To learn more about other essential air permits for different emergency generators, see this infographic from Lockatong Engineering.