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Strikethrough version: R. 61‐62.5, Standard 7.1

Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

SOUTH CAROLINA 

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL 

AIR POLLUTION CONTROL REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS 

REGULATION 61-62.5 

AIR POLLUTION CONTROL STANDARDS 

STANDARD NO. 7.1 

NONATTAINMENT NEW SOURCE REVIEW (NSR) 

(a) Applicability 

 (1) This rule applies to all major stationary sources constructed or modified in any nonattainment area 

as designated in 40 CFR 81.341 ("nonattainment area") if the emissions from such facility will cause or 

contribute to concentrations of a regulated NSR pollutant (as defined in paragraph (c)(13)) for which the 

nonattainment area was designated as nonattainment. Applicability to this regulation shall be based on the 

pollutant emission rate set out in paragraph (c)(14) for only those pollutants for which the area’s 

designation is based. 

 (A) The requirements of paragraph (d) apply to the construction of any new major stationary source 

or the major modification of any existing major stationary source, except as provided in paragraph (b). 

 (B) No new major stationary source or major modification to which the requirements of paragraph 

(d) apply shall begin actual construction without a permit that states that the major stationary source or 

major modification will meet those requirements. The Department has authority to issue any such permit. 

 (2) Redesignation to attainment. If any nonattainment area to which this regulation applies is later 

designated in 40 CFR 81.341 as attainment, all sources in that nonattainment area subject to this 

regulation before the redesignation date shall continue to comply with this regulation. 

 (3) For any area designated as nonattainment a major stationary source or major modification that is 

major for volatile organic compounds or oxides of nitrogen is also major for ozone. 

(b) Applicability procedures. 

 (1) Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs (b)(7) and (8), and consistent with the definition of 

major modification contained in paragraph (c)(6)(A), a project is a major modification for a regulated 

NSR pollutant if it causes two types of emissions increases – a significant emissions increase (as defined 

in paragraph (c)(15), and a significant net emissions increase (as defined in paragraphs (c)(8) and (15). 

The project is not a major modification if it does not cause a significant emissions increase. If the project 

causes a significant emissions increase, then the project is a major modification only if it also results in a 

significant net emissions increase. 

 (2) The procedure for calculating (before beginning actual construction) whether a significant 

emissions increase (i.e., the first step of the process) will occur depends upon the type of emissions units 

being modified, according to paragraphs (b)(1) through (6). The procedure for calculating (before 

beginning actual construction) whether a significant net emissions increase will occur at the major 

stationary source (i.e., the second step of the process) is contained in the definition in paragraph (c)(8). 

Regardless of any such preconstruction projections, a major modification results if the project causes a 

significant emissions increase and a significant net emissions increase. 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (3) Actual-to-projected-actual applicability test for projects that only involve existing emissions 

units. A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the 

difference between the projected actual emissions (as defined in paragraph (c)(11)) and the baseline actual 

emissions (as defined in paragraphs (c)(2)(A) and (B), as applicable), for each existing emissions unit, 

equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant (as defined in paragraph (c)(14)). 

 (4) Actual-to-potential test for projects that only involve construction of a new emissions unit(s).

A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the 

difference between the potential to emit (as defined in paragraph (b)(37) of Regulation 61-62.5 Standard 

7, “Prevention of Significant Deterioration” (“Standard 7”)) from each new emissions unit following 

completion of the project and the baseline actual emissions (as defined in paragraph (c)(2)(C)) of these 

units before the project equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant (as defined in 

paragraph (c)(14)). 

 (5) [Reserved] 

 (6) Hybrid test for projects that involve multiple types of emissions units. A significant emissions 

increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the emissions increases for each 

emissions unit, using the method specified in paragraphs (b)(3) and (4) as applicable with respect to each 

emissions unit, for each type of emissions unit equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant 

(as defined in paragraph (c)(14)). 

 (7) For any major stationary source for a Plantwide Applicability Limitation (PAL) for a regulated 

NSR pollutant, the major stationary source shall comply with requirements under paragraph (i). 

(c) Definitions. The following definitions apply to this Standard only. Any other term contained within 

this Standard is as defined where indicated in Regulation 61-62.5, Standard 7, “Prevention of Significant 

Deterioration.” 

 (1)(A) “Actual emissions” means the actual rate of emissions of a regulated NSR pollutant from an 

emissions unit, as determined in accordance with paragraphs (c)(1)(B) through (D), except that this 

definition shall not apply for calculating whether a significant emissions increase has occurred, or for 

establishing a PAL under paragraph (i). Instead, paragraphs (c)(2) and (c)(11) shall apply for those 

purposes. 

 (B) In general, actual emissions as of a particular date shall equal the average rate, in tons per year, 

at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during a consecutive 24-month period which precedes the 

particular date and which is representative of normal source operation. The Department shall allow the 

use of a different time period upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source 

operation. Actual emissions shall be calculated using the unit's actual operating hours, production rates, 

and types of materials processed, stored, or combusted during the selected time period. 

 (C) The Department may presume that source-specific allowable emissions for the unit are 

equivalent to the actual emissions of the unit. 

 (D) For any emissions unit that has not begun normal operations on the particular date, actual 

emissions shall equal the potential to emit of the unit on that date. 

 (2) “Baseline actual emissions” means the rate of emissions, in tons per year, of a regulated NSR 

pollutant, as determined in accordance with paragraphs (c)(2)(A) through (D). 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (A) For any existing electric utility steam generating unit, baseline actual emissions means the 

average rate, in tons per year, at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during any consecutive 24-

month period selected by the owner or operator within the 5-year period immediately preceding when the 

owner or operator begins actual construction of the project. The Department shall allow the use of a 

different time period upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source operation. 

 (i) The average rate shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions 

associated with startups, and shutdowns. 

 (ii) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any non-compliant emissions that 

occurred while the source was operating above any emission limitation that was legally enforceable 

during the consecutive 24-month period. 

 (iii) For a regulated NSR pollutant, when a project involves multiple emissions units, only one 

consecutive 24-month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for the emissions 

units being changed. A different consecutive 24-month period can be used for each regulated NSR 

pollutant. 

 (iv) The average rate shall not be based on any consecutive 24-month period for which there is 

inadequate information for determining annual emissions, in tons per year, and for adjusting this amount 

if required by paragraph (c)(2)(A)(ii). 

 (B) For an existing emissions unit (other than an electric utility steam generating unit), baseline 

actual emissions means the average rate, in tons per year, at which the emissions unit actually emitted the 

pollutant during any consecutive 24-month period selected by the owner or operator within the 10-year 

period immediately preceding either the date the owner or operator begins actual construction of the 

project, or the date a complete permit application is received by the Department for a permit required 

either under this section or under a plan approved by the Administrator whichever is earlier, except that 

the 10-year period shall not include any period earlier than November 15, 1990. The Department reserves 

the right to determine if the 24-month period selected is appropriate. 

 (i) The average rate shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions 

associated with startups and shutdowns. 

 (ii) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any non-compliant emissions that 

occurred while the source was operating above an emission limitation that was legally enforceable during 

the consecutive 24-month period. 

 (iii) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any emissions that would have 

exceeded an emission limitation with which the major stationary source must currently comply, had such 

major stationary source been required to comply with such limitations during the consecutive 24-month 

period. However, if an emission limitation is part of a maximum achievable control technology standard 

that the Administrator proposed or promulgated under 40 CFR 63, the baseline actual emissions need 

only be adjusted if the State has taken credit for such emissions reductions in an attainment demonstration 

or maintenance plan consistent with the requirements of paragraph (d)(1)(c)(viii). 

 (iv) For a regulated NSR pollutant, when a project involves multiple emissions units, only one 

consecutive 24-month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for the emissions 

units being changed. A different consecutive 24-month period can be used for each regulated NSR 

pollutant. 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (v) The average rate shall not be based on any consecutive 24-month period for which there is 

inadequate information for determining annual emissions, in tons per year, and for adjusting this amount 

if required by paragraphs (c)(2)(B)(ii) and (iii). 

 (C) For a new emissions unit, the baseline actual emissions for purposes of determining the 

emissions increase that will result from the initial construction and operation of such unit shall equal zero; 

and thereafter, for all other purposes, shall equal the unit's potential to emit. 

 (D) For a PAL for a major stationary source, the baseline actual emissions shall be calculated for 

existing electric utility steam generating units in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph 

(c)(2)(A), for other existing emissions units in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph 

(c)(2)(B), and for a new emissions unit in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph 

(c)(2)(C). 

 (3) “Best available control technology (BACT)” means an emissions limitation (including a visible 

emissions standard) based on the maximum degree of reduction for each regulated NSR pollutant which 

would be emitted from any proposed major stationary source or major modification which the 

Department, on a case-by-case basis, taking into account energy, environmental, and economic impacts 

and other costs, determines is achievable for such source or modification through application of 

production processes or available methods, systems, and techniques, including fuel cleaning or treatment 

or innovative fuel combustion techniques for control of such pollutant. In no event shall application of 

best available control technology result in emissions of any pollutant which would exceed the emissions 

allowed by any applicable standard under 40 CFR 60 or 61. If the Department determines that 

technological or economic limitations on the application of measurement methodology to a particular 

emissions unit would make the imposition of an emissions standard infeasible, a design, equipment, work 

practice, operational standard, or combination thereof, may be prescribed instead to satisfy the 

requirement for the application of BACT. Such standard shall, to the degree possible, set forth the 

emissions reduction achievable by implementation of such design, equipment, work practice or operation, 

and shall provide for compliance by means which achieve equivalent results. 

 (4) [Reserved] 

 (5) “Lowest achievable emission rate (LAER)” means, for any source, the more stringent rate of 

emissions based on the following: 

 (A) The most stringent emissions limitation which is contained in the implementation plan of any 

State for such class or category of stationary source, unless the owner or operator of the proposed 

stationary source demonstrates that such limitations are not achievable; or 

 (B) The most stringent emissions limitation which is achieved in practice by such class or category 

of stationary sources. This limitation, when applied to a modification, means the lowest achievable 

emissions rate for the new or modified emissions units within a stationary source. In no event shall the 

application of the term permit a proposed new or modified stationary source to emit any pollutant in 

excess of the amount allowable under an applicable new source standard of performance. 

 (6)(A) “Major modification” means any physical change in or change in the method of operation of 

a major stationary source that would result in: 

 (i) A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant (as defined in paragraph (c)(13)); 

and 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (ii) A significant net emissions increase of that pollutant from the major stationary source. 

 (B) Any significant emissions increase (as defined in paragraph (c)(15)) from any emissions units or 

net emissions increase (as defined in paragraph (c)(8)) at a major stationary source that is significant for 

volatile organic compounds or oxides of nitrogen shall be considered significant for ozone. 

 (C) A physical change or change in the method of operation shall not include: 

 (i) Routine maintenance, repair and replacement; 

 (ii) Use of an alternative fuel or raw material by reason of an order under sections 2(a) and (b) of 

the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974 (or any superseding legislation) or by 

reason of a natural gas curtailment plan pursuant to the Federal Power Act; 

 (iii) Use of an alternative fuel by reason of an order or rule section 125 of the Clean Air Act; 

 (iv) Use of an alternative fuel at a steam generating unit to the extent that the fuel is generated 

from municipal solid waste; 

 (v) Use of an alternative fuel or raw material by a stationary source which; 

 (a) The source was capable of accommodating before December 21, 1976, unless such change 

would be prohibited under any federally enforceable permit condition which was established after 

December 12, 1976, or 

 (b) The source is approved to use under any permit issued under regulations approved pursuant 

to this section; 

 (vi) An increase in the hours of operation or in the production rate, unless such change is 

prohibited under any federally enforceable permit condition which was established after December 21, 

1976. 

 (vii) Any change in ownership at a stationary source. 

 (viii) [Reserved] 

 (ix) The installation, operation, cessation, or removal of a temporary clean coal technology 

demonstration project, provided that the project complies with: 

 (a) The South Carolina State Implementation Plan, and 

 (b) Other requirements necessary to attain and maintain the national ambient air quality 

standard during the project and after it is terminated. 

 (D) This definition shall not apply with respect to a particular regulated NSR pollutant when the 

major stationary source is complying with the requirements under paragraph (i) for a PAL for that 

pollutant. Instead, the definition at paragraph (i)(2)(viii) shall apply. 

 (7)(A) “Major stationary source” means: 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (i) Any stationary source of air pollutants which emits, or has the potential to emit 100 tons per 

year or more of any regulated NSR pollutant, or 

 (ii) Any physical change that would occur at a stationary source not qualifying under paragraph 

(c)(7)(A)(i) as a major stationary source, if the change would constitute a major stationary source by 

itself. 

 (B) A major stationary source that is major for volatile organic compounds or oxides of nitrogen 

shall be considered major for ozone. 

 (C) The fugitive emissions of a stationary source shall not be included in determining for any of the 

purposes of this paragraph whether it is a major stationary source, unless the source belongs to one of the 

following categories of stationary sources: 

 (i) Coal cleaning plants (with thermal dryers); 

 (ii) Kraft pulp mills; 

 (iii) Portland cement plants; 

 (iv) Primary zinc smelters; 

 (v) Iron and steel mills; 

 (vi) Primary aluminum ore reduction plants; 

 (vii) Primary copper smelters; 

 (viii) Municipal incinerators capable of charging more than 250 tons of refuse per day; 

 (ix) Hydrofluoric, sulfuric, or nitric acid plants; 

 (x) Petroleum refineries; 

 (xi) Lime plants; 

 (xii) Phosphate rock processing plants; 

 (xiii) Coke oven batteries; 

 (xiv) Sulfur recovery plants; 

 (xv) Carbon black plants (furnace process); 

 (xvi) Primary lead smelters; 

 (xvii) Fuel conversion plants; 

 (xviii) Sintering plants; 

 (xix) Secondary metal production plants; 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (xx) Chemical process plants – The term chemical processing plant shall not include ethanol 

production facilities that produce ethanol by natural fermentation included in NAICS codes 325193 or 

312140; 

 (xxi) Fossil-fuel boilers (or combination thereof) totaling more than 250 million British thermal 

units per hour heat input; 

 (xxii) Petroleum storage and transfer units with a total storage capacity exceeding 300,000 barrels; 

 (xxiii) Taconite ore processing plants; 

 (xxiv) Glass fiber processing plants; 

 (xxv) Charcoal production plants; 

 (xxvi) Fossil fuel-fired steam electric plants of more than 250 million British thermal units per 

hour heat input; and 

 (xxvii) Any other stationary source category which, as of August 7, 1980, is being regulated under 

section 111 or 112 of the Clean Air Act. 

(8)(A) “Net emissions increase” means, with respect to any regulated NSR pollutant emitted by a 

major stationary source, the amount by which the sum of the following exceeds zero: 

 (i) The increase in emissions from a particular physical change or change in the method of 

operation at a stationary source as calculated pursuant to paragraph (b); and 

 (ii) Any other increases and decreases in actual emissions at the major stationary source that are 

contemporaneous with the particular change and are otherwise creditable. Baseline actual emissions for 

calculating increases and decreases under this paragraph (c)(8)(A)(ii) shall be determined as provided in 

paragraph (c)(2), except that paragraphs (c)(2)(A)(iii) and (c)(2)(B)(iv) shall not apply. 

 (B) An increase or decrease in actual emissions is contemporaneous with the increase from the 

particular change only if it occurs before the date that the increase from the particular change occurs; 

 (C) An increase or decrease in actual emissions is creditable only if: 

 (i) It occurs within five years before construction on the particular change commences; and 

 (ii) The Department has not relied on it in issuing a permit for the source, which permit is in effect 

when the increase in actual emissions from the particular change occurs. 

 (D) An increase in actual emissions is creditable only to the extent that the new level of actual 

emissions exceeds the old level. 

 (E) A decrease in actual emissions is creditable only to the extent that: 

 (i) The old level of actual emission or the old level of allowable emissions whichever is lower, 

exceeds the new level of actual emissions; 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (ii) It is enforceable as a practical matter at and after the time that actual construction on the 

particular change begins; and 

 (iii) The Department has not relied on it in issuing any permit or the Department has not relied on 

it in demonstrating attainment or reasonable further progress; 

 (iv) It has approximately the same qualitative significance for public health and welfare as that 

attributed to the increase from the particular change. 

 (F) An increase that results from a physical change at a source occurs when the emissions unit on 

which construction occurred becomes operational and begins to emit a particular pollutant. Any 

replacement unit that requires shakedown becomes operational only after a reasonable shakedown period, 

not to exceed 180 days. 

 (G) Paragraph (c)(1)(B) shall not apply for determining creditable increases and decreases or after a 

change. 

(9) “Nonattainment major new source review (NSR) program” means a major source 

preconstruction permit program that has been approved by the Administrator and incorporated into the 

plan to implement the requirements of this regulation, or a program that implements 40 CFR 51, appendix 

S, Sections I through VI. Any permit issued under such a program is a major NSR permit. 

(10) [Reserved]

 (11)(A) “Projected actual emissions” means, the maximum annual rate, in tons per year, at which an 

existing emissions unit is projected to emit a regulated NSR pollutant in any one of the 5 years (12-month 

period) following the date the unit resumes regular operation after the project, or in any one of the 10 

years following that date, if the project involves increasing the emissions unit's design capacity or its 

potential to emit of that regulated NSR pollutant and full utilization of the unit would result in a 

significant emissions increase or a significant net emissions increase at the major stationary source. 

 (B) In determining the projected actual emissions under paragraph (c)(11)(A) before beginning 

actual construction, the owner or operator of the major stationary source: 

 (i) Shall consider all relevant information, including but not limited to, historical operational data, 

the company's own representations, the company's expected business activity and the company's highest 

projections of business activity, the company's filings with the State or Federal regulatory authorities, and 

compliance plans under the approved plan; and 

 (ii) Shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions associated with 

startups, and shutdowns; and 

 (iii) Shall exclude, in calculating any increase in emissions that results from the particular project, 

that portion of the unit's emissions following the project that an existing unit could have accommodated 

during the consecutive 24-month period used to establish the baseline actual emissions under paragraph 

(c)(2) and that are also unrelated to the particular project, including any increased utilization due to 

product demand growth; or, 

 (iv) In lieu of using the method set out in paragraphs (c)(11)(B)(i) through (iii) may elect to use 

the emissions unit's potential to emit, in tons per year, as defined under paragraph (b)(37) of Standard 7. 

(12) “Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) permit” means any permit that is issued under 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

a major source preconstruction permit program that has been approved by the Administrator and 

incorporated into the plan to implement the requirements of 40 CFR 51.166, or under the program in 40 

CFR 52.21. 

(13) “Regulated NSR pollutant,” for purposes of this regulation of this regulation, means the 

following: 

 (A) Oxides of nitrogen or any volatile organic compounds; 

 (B) Any pollutant for which a national ambient air quality standard has been promulgated; or 

 (C) Any pollutant that is a constituent or precursor of a general pollutant listed under paragraphs 

(c)(13)(A) or (B), provided that a constituent or precursor pollutant may only be regulated under NSR as 

part of regulation of the general pollutant. Precursors identified by the Administrator for purposes of NSR 

are the following: 

(a) Volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides are precursors to ozone in all ozone 

nonattainment areas; 

(b) Sulfur dioxide is a precursor to PM2.5 in all PM2.5 nonattainment areas; 

(c) Nitrogen oxides are presumed to be precursors to PM2.5 in all PM2.5 nonattainment areas, 

unless the State demonstrates to the Administrator’s satisfaction or EPA demonstrates that emissions of 

nitrogen oxides from sources in a specific area are not a significant contributor to that area’s ambient PM 

2.5 concentrations; 

(d) Volatile organic compounds and ammonia are presumed not to be precursors to PM2.5 in 

any PM2.5 nonattainment area, unless the State demonstrates to the Administrator’s satisfaction or EPA 

demonstrates that emissions of volatile organic compounds or ammonia from sources in a specific area 

are a significant contributor to that area’s ambient PM2.5 concentrations; or 

 (D) PM2.5 emissions and PM10 emissions shall include gaseous emissions from a source or 

activity which condense to form particulate matter at ambient temperatures. On or after January 1, 2011 

(or any earlier date established in the upcoming rulemaking codifying test methods), such condensable 

particulate matter shall be accounted for in applicability determinations and in establishing emissions 

limitations for PM2.5 and PM10 in permits issued under this ruling. Compliance with emissions limitations 

for PM2.5 and PM10 issued prior to this date shall not be based on condensable particulate matter unless 

required by the terms and conditions of the permit or the applicable implementation plan. Applicability 

determinations made prior to this date without accounting for condensable particulate matter shall not be 

considered in violation of this section unless the applicable implementation plan required condensable 

particulate matter to be included. 

 (14) “Significant” means, in reference to a net emissions increase or the potential of a source to emit 

any of the following pollutants, as rate of emissions that would equal or exceed any of the following rates: 

Pollutant Emission Rate 

Carbon monoxide: 100 tons per year (tpy) 

Nitrogen oxides: 40 tpy 
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Particulate matter: 

 15 tpy of PM10 emissions 

 10 tpy of direct PM2.5 ; 

 40 tpy of sulfur dioxide emissions; 

 40 tpy of nitrogen oxide emissions unless demonstrated not to be a PM2.5 precursor under paragraph 

13 of this section 

Sulfur dioxide: 40 tpy 

Ozone: 40 tpy of volatile organic compounds or oxides of nitrogen 

Lead: 0.6 tpy 

(15) “Significant emissions increase” means, for a regulated NSR pollutant, an increase in emissions 

that is significant (as defined in paragraph (c)(14)) for that pollutant. 

(16) “Volatile organic compounds (VOC)” is as defined in Regulation 61-62.1, Section I, 

Definitions. 

(d) Permitting requirements 

(1) Conditions for approval. If the Department finds that the major stationary source or major 

modification would be constructed in an area designated in 40 CFR 81.341 as nonattainment for a 

pollutant for which the stationary source or modification is major, approval may be granted only if the 

following conditions are met: 

 (A) The major stationary source or major modification is required to meet an emission limitation 

which specifies the lowest achievable emission rate (LAER) for such source. 

 (B) The applicant must certify that all existing major sources owned or operated by the applicant (or 

any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the applicant) in the same State as the 

proposed source are in compliance with all applicable emission limitations and standards under the Clean 

Air Act (or are in compliance with an expeditious schedule which is Federally enforceable or contained in 

a court decree). 

 (C) The owner or operator of the proposed new major stationary source or major modification will 

obtain sufficient emission reductions of the nonattainment pollutant from other sources. Emission 

reductions shall be in effect and enforceable prior to the date the new source or modification commences 

operation. The emission reductions shall be obtained in accordance with the following provisions: 

 

 (i) Where the permitted emissions limit allows greater emissions than the potential to emit of the 

source, emissions offset credit will be allowed only for control below this potential; 

 (ii) For an existing fuel combustion source, credit shall be based on the allowable emissions for 

the type of fuel being burned at the time the application to construct is filed. If the existing source 

commits to switch to a cleaner fuel at some future date, emissions offset credit based on the allowable (or 

actual) emissions for the fuels involved is not acceptable, unless the permit is conditioned to require the 

use of a specified alternative control measure which would achieve the same degree of emissions 

reduction should the source switch back to a dirtier fuel at some later date. 
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 (iii)(a) Emissions reductions achieved by shutting down an existing source or curtailing 

production or operating hours below baseline levels may be generally credited if such reductions are 

permanent, quantifiable, federally enforceable, occurred on or after the date of the most recent emissions 

inventory, and if the area has an EPA-approved attainment plan. 

 

 (b) Such reductions may be credited if the shutdown or curtailment occurred on or after the date 

the new source permit application is filed, or, if the applicant can establish that the proposed new source 

is a replacement for the shutdown or curtailed source, and the cutoff date provision of paragraph 

(d)(C)(iii)(a) are observed. 

 (iv) No emissions credit may be allowed for replacing one hydrocarbon compound with another of 

lesser reactivity, except for those compounds listed in Table 1 of EPA's "Recommended Policy on 

Control of Volatile Organic Compounds" (42 FR 35314, July 8, 1977); 

 (v) All emission reductions claimed as offset credit shall be federally enforceable and surplus; 

 (a) Eligibility as Emission Offsets. Any facility that has the potential to emit any NAAQS 

pollutant in an amount greater than 5 tons per year and that is located in a federally-designated 

nonattainment area shall be eligible to create emission offsets. 

 

 (1) To be eligible to be an emission offset: 

 (A) A reduction in emissions shall be real, permanent, quantifiable, enforceable, and 

surplus and must have occurred after December 31 of the base year inventory for those pollutants that are 

designated nonattainment by the EPA. The base year inventory date is two years preceding the date of 

nonattainment designation. However, the Department may choose to consider a prior shutdown or 

curtailment to have occurred after the last day of the base year if the projected emissions inventory used 

to develop the attainment demonstration explicitly includes the emissions from such previously shutdown 

or curtailed emission units. 

 (B) Emission reductions shall have been created by a facility that has obtained an 

enforceable air quality permit or letter of permit cancellation resulting from the surrender of the source’s 

permit(s). 

 

 (2) Emission reductions may be created by any or a combination of the following methods: 

 (A) Installation of control equipment beyond what is necessary to comply with existing 

requirements; 

 (B) A change in process inputs, formulations, products or product mix, fuels, or raw 

materials; 

 (C) A reduction in actual emission rates; 

 (D) A reduction in hours of operation; 

 (E) Production curtailment or reduction in throughput; 

 (F) Shutdown of emitting sources; or 

 

 (G) Any other enforceable method that the Department determines to result in real, 
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permanent, quantifiable, enforceable, and surplus reduction of emissions. 

 (3) A completed emissions offset submittal must be received by the Department within one 

year of the date of the creation of the reductions. Emission offsets not requested within one year of the 

date of the creation of the reductions will be permanently retired. Prior to commencing operation of a 

permitted emissions unit, Department approval for the required emission offsets must be granted. 

 (4) The following are ineligible for emission offsets: 

 (A) Emission reductions that are not considered surplus, such as: 

 (i) Emission reductions that have previously been used to avoid Regulation 61-62.5 

Standard No. 7, Prevention of Significant Deterioration, or Regulation 61-62.5 Standard No. 7.1, 

Nonattainment New Source Review (NSR), through a netting demonstration; 

 (ii) Emission reductions of hazardous air pollutants, listed in Section 112(b) of the Clean 

Air Act, to the extent needed to comply with Regulation 61-62.61, National Emission Standards for 

Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), and Regulation 61-62.63, National Emission Standards for 

Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Source Categories, (however, emission reductions of hazardous 

volatile organic compound (VOC) and/or hazardous particulate matter (PM) air pollutants beyond the 

amount of reductions necessary to comply with Regulation 61-62.61, NESHAP, and Regulation 61-62.63, 

NESHAP for Source Categories, are considered surplus); 

 (iii) Emission reductions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulate 

matter (PM) and VOCs to the extent needed to comply with Section 111 of the CAA and Regulation 61-

62.60, South Carolina Designated Facility Plan and New Source Performance Standards (NSPS), 

(however, emission reductions of VOCs, NOx, SO2, PM and VOCs beyond the amount of reductions 

necessary to comply with Regulation 61-62.60, South Carolina Designated Facility Plan and NSPS, are 

considered surplus); 

 (iv) Emission units covered under an agreement, order or variance for exceeding an 

emission standard until compliance is demonstrated with the emission standard that is the subject of the 

agreement, order or variance; 

 (v) Sources that have operated less than 12 months; 

 (vi) Emission reductions required in order to comply with any State or Federal 

regulation not listed above, unless these reductions are in excess of the amount required by the State or 

Federal regulation; or 

 (vii) Facilities that have received a Department transmittal letter notifying of permit 

cancellation due to the facility’s decision to close out its operating permit without a request to qualify 

facility emission reductions as offsets. 

 (b) Calculation of Emission Offsets

 (1) The following procedure shall be followed to calculate emission offsets: 

 

 (A) The source shall calculate average annual actual emissions, in tons per year (tpy), 

before the emission reduction using data from the 24-month period immediately preceding the reduction 

in emissions. With the Department’s approval, the use of a different time period, not to exceed 10 years 
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immediately preceding the reduction in emissions, may be allowed if the owner or operator of the source 

documents that such period is more representative of normal source operation, but not prior to the base 

year inventory date, which is the last day of the two years preceding the date of nonattainment 

designation; and 

 (B) The emission offsets created shall be calculated by subtracting the allowable emissions 

following the reduction from the average annual actual emissions prior to the reduction. 

 (2) For any emissions unit that has been operating for a consecutive period of at least 12 

months but less than 24 months on the base year inventory date, based on the unit’s potential to emit, 

emissions shall be calculated equal to the amount needed to complete a 24 month period on the base year 

inventory date. 

 (vi) Location of offsetting emissions. Emission offsets shall be obtained from sources currently 

operating within the same designated nonattainment area as the new or modified stationary source. 

Emission offsets may be obtained from another nonattainment area with the Department’s approval only 

if (a) the other area has an equal or higher nonattainment classification than the area in which the 

proposed source is located and (b) emissions from the other area contribute to a violation of the NAAQS 

in the nonattainment area in which the source is located. 

 (vii) Emission offsetting ratios. Emission offsets shall be required in nonattainment areas in 

accordance with the following provisions: 

 (a) Emissions for carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), lead 

(Pb), and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) nonattainment areas shall be offset at a ratio greater than 

one to one. 

 (b) Emissions for ozone nonattainment areas shall be offset for volatile organic compounds 

(VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in accordance with the following table: 

Designation Offset ratios 

Subpart I >1 to 1 

Marginal 1.1 to 1 

Moderate 1.15 to 1 

Serious 1.2 to 1 

Severe 1.3 to 1 

Extreme 1.5 to 1 

 (viii) Credit for an emissions reduction can be claimed to the extent that the Department has not 

relied on it in issuing any permit under regulations approved pursuant to 40 CFR part 51 subpart I or the 

Department has not relied on it in demonstrating attainment or reasonable further progress. 

 (ix) [Reserved] 

 (x) [Reserved] 

 (xi) The total tonnage of increased emissions, in tons per year, resulting from a major modification 

that must be offset in accordance with section 173 of the Clean Air Act shall be determined by summing 

the difference between the allowable emissions after the modification (as defined by paragraph (b)(3) of 

Standard 7) and the actual emissions before the modification (as defined in paragraph (c)(1)) for each 

emissions unit. 
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 (D) The emission offsets must provide a positive net air quality benefit in the affected area as 

determined by 40 CFR 51, Appendix S, Emission Offset Interpretative Ruling. 

 (E) Alternative Sites Analysis. An analysis of alternative sites, sizes, production processes, and 

environmental control techniques for such proposed source demonstrates that benefits of the proposed 

source significantly outweigh the environmental and social costs imposed as a result of its location, 

construction, or modification shall be required. 

(2) (A) Any owner or operator who constructs or operates a source or modification not in accordance 

with the application submitted pursuant to this section or with the terms of any approval to construct, or 

any owner or operator of a source or modification subject to this section who commences construction 

after the effective date of these regulations without applying for and receiving approval hereunder, shall 

be subject to appropriate enforcement action. 

 (B) Approval to construct shall become invalid if construction is not commenced within 18 months 

after receipt of such approval, if construction is discontinued for a period of 18 months or more, or if 

construction is not completed within a reasonable time. The Department may extend the 18-month period 

upon a satisfactory showing that an extension is justified. This provision does not apply to the time period 

between construction of the approved phases of a phased construction project; each phase must 

commence construction within 18 months of the projected and approved commencement date. 

 (C) Approval to construct shall not relieve any owner or operator of the responsibility to comply 

fully with applicable provisions of the plan and any other requirements under local, State or Federal law. 

 (D) At such time that a particular source or modification becomes a major stationary source or major 

modification solely by virtue of a relaxation in any enforcement limitation which was established after 

August 7, 1980, on the capacity of the source or modification otherwise to emit a pollutant, such as a 

restriction on hours of operation, then the requirements of regulations approved pursuant to this section 

shall apply to the source or modification as though construction had not yet commenced on the source or 

modification; 

 (3) The following provisions apply to projects at existing emissions units at a major stationary source 

(other than projects at a source with a PAL) in circumstances where there is a reasonable possibility that a 

project that is not a part of a major modification may result in a significant emissions increase and the 

owner or operator elects to use the method specified in paragraphs (c)(11)(B)(i) through (iii) for 

calculating projected actual emissions. 

 (A) If the project requires construction permitting under Regulation 61-62.1, Section II “Permit 

Requirements,” the owner or operator shall provide a copy of the information set out in paragraph 

(d)(3)(B) as part of the permit application to the Department. If construction permitting under Regulation 

61-62.1, Section II “Permit Requirements” is not required, the owner or operator shall maintain the 

information set out in paragraph (d)(3). 

 

 (B) Before beginning actual construction of the project, the owner or operator shall document and 

maintain a record of the following information: 

 (i) A description of the project; 

 (ii) Identification of the emissions unit(s) whose emissions of a regulated NSR pollutant could be 
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affected by the project; and 

 (iii) A description of the applicability test used to determine that the project is not a major 

modification for any regulated NSR pollutant, including the baseline actual emissions, the projected 

actual emissions, the amount of emissions excluded under paragraph (c)(11)(B)(iii) and an explanation for 

why such amount was excluded, and any netting calculations, if applicable. 

 (C) The owner or operator shall monitor the emissions of any regulated NSR pollutant that could 

increase as a result of the project and that is emitted by any emissions units identified in paragraph 

(d)(3)(B)(ii); and calculate and maintain a record of the annual emissions, in tons per year on a calendar 

year basis, for a period of 5 years following resumption of regular operations after the change, or for a 

period of 10 years following resumption of regular operations after the change if the project increases the 

design capacity or potential to emit of that regulated NSR pollutant at such emissions unit. 

 (D) If the unit is an existing electric utility steam generating unit, the owner or operator shall submit 

a report to the Department within 60 days after the end of each year during which records must be 

generated under paragraph (d)(3)(B) setting out the unit's annual emissions during the year that preceded 

submission of the report. 

 (E) If the unit is an existing unit other than an electric utility steam generating unit, the owner or 

operator shall submit a report to the Department if the annual emissions, in tons per year, from the project 

identified in paragraph (d)(3)(B), exceed the baseline actual emissions (as documented and maintained 

pursuant to paragraph (d)(3)(B)(iii)), by a significant amount (as defined in paragraph (c)(14)) for that 

regulated NSR pollutant, and if such emissions differ from the preconstruction projection as documented 

and maintained pursuant to paragraph (d)(3)(B)(iii). Such report shall be submitted to the Department 

within 60 days after the end of such year. The report shall contain the following: 

 (i) The name, address and telephone number of the major stationary source; 

 (ii) The annual emissions as calculated pursuant to paragraph (d)(3)(C); and 

 (iii) Any other information needed for to make a compliance determination (e.g., an explanation as 

to why the emissions differ from the preconstruction projection). 

 (4) If a project at a source with a PAL requires construction permitting under Regulation 61-62.1, 

Section II, “Permit Requirements,” the owner or operator shall provide notification of source status as 

part of the permit application to the Department. 

(5) The owner or operator of the source shall make the information required to be documented and 

maintained pursuant to paragraph (d)(3) for review upon a request for inspection by the Department or the 

general public pursuant to the requirements contained in 40 CFR 70.4(b)(3)(viii). 

 (6) Public Participation. Within 30 days after receipt of an application to construct, or any addition to 

such application, the Department shall advise the applicant of any deficiency in the application or in the 

information submitted and transmit a copy of such application to EPA. In the event of such a deficiency, 

the date of receipt of the application shall be, for the purpose of this regulation, the date on which the 

Department received all required information. 

 (7) In accordance with Regulation 61-30, Environmental Protection Fees, the Department shall make a 

final determination on the application. This involves performing the following actions in a timely manner: 
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 (i) For the purposes of this paragraph (d)(7), the time frame for making a final determination shall be 

consistent with R. 61-30, Environmental Protection Fees, paragraph (H)(2)(c)(iii). 

 (ii) Make a preliminary determination whether construction should be approved, approved with 

conditions, or disapproved. 

 (iii) Make available in at least one location in each region in which the proposed plant or 

modification would be constructed a copy of all materials the applicant submitted, a copy of the 

preliminary determination and a copy or summary of other materials, if any, considered in making the 

preliminary determination. 

 (iv) Notify the public, by advertisement in a newspaper of general circulation in each region in which 

the proposed plant or modification would be constructed, of the application, the preliminary 

determination, the degree of increment consumption that is expected from the plant or modification, and 

the opportunity for comment at a public hearing as well as written public comment. 

 (v) Send a copy of the notice of public comment to the applicant, the Administrator of EPA, and to 

officials and agencies having cognizance over the location where the proposed construction would occur 

as follows: The chief executives of the city and county where the plant or modification would be located, 

any comprehensive regional land use planning agency and any State, Federal Land Manager, or Indian 

Governing Body whose lands may be affected by emissions from the plant or modification. 

 (vi) Provide opportunity for a public hearing for interested persons to appear and submit written or 

oral comments on the air quality impact of the plant or modification, alternatives to the plant or 

modification, the control technology required, and other appropriate considerations. 

 (vii) Consider all written comments submitted within a time specified in the notice of public 

comment and all comments received at any public hearing(s) in making a final decision on the 

approvability of the application. No later than 10 days after the close of the public comment period, the 

applicant may submit a written response to any comments submitted by the public. The Department shall 

consider the applicant’s response in making a final decision. The Department shall make all comments 

available for public inspection in the same locations where the Department made available 

preconstruction information relating to the proposed plant or modification. 

 (viii) Make a final determination whether construction should be approved, approved with 

conditions, or disapproved pursuant to this section. 

 (ix) Notify the applicant in writing of the final determination and make such notification available 

for public inspection at the same location where the Department made available preconstruction 

information and public comments relating to the plant or modification. 

 (x) Notify EPA of every action related to the consideration of the permit. 

(e) Exemptions. The provisions of paragraph (d) shall not apply to a particular major stationary source or 

major modification if the source or modification would be a major stationary source or major 

modification only if fugitive emissions, to the extent quantifiable, are considered in calculating the 

potential to emit of the stationary source or modification and the source does not belong to any of the 

following categories: 

(A) Coal cleaning plants (with thermal dryers); 
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 (B) Kraft pulp mills; 

 (C) Portland cement plants; 

 (D) Primary zinc smelters; 

 (E) Iron and steel mills; 

 (F) Primary aluminum ore reduction plants; 

 (G) Primary copper smelters; 

 (H) Municipal incinerators capable of charging more than 250 tons of refuse per day; 

 (I) Hydrofluoric, sulfuric, or nitric acid plants; 

 (J) Petroleum refineries; 

 (K) Lime plants; 

 (L) Phosphate rock processing plants; 

 (M) Coke oven batteries; 

 (N) Sulfur recovery plants; 

 (O) Carbon black plants (furnace process); 

 (P) Primary lead smelters; 

 (Q) Fuel conversion plants; 

 (R) Sintering plants; 

 (S) Secondary metal production plants; 

 (T) Chemical process plants - The term chemical process plant shall not include ethanol production 

facilities that produce ethanol by natural fermentation included in NAICS codes 325193 or 312140; 

 (U) Fossil-fuel boilers (or combination thereof) totaling more than 250 million British thermal units 

per hour heat input; 

 (V) Petroleum storage and transfer units with a total storage capacity exceeding 300,000 barrels; 

 (W) Taconite ore processing plants; 

 (X) Glass fiber processing plants; 

 (Y) Charcoal production plants; 

 (Z) Fossil fuel-fired steam electric plants of more than 250 million British thermal units per hour 
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heat input; and 

 (AA) Any other stationary source category which, as of August 7, 1980, is being regulated under 

section 111 or 112 of the Clean Air Act. 

(f) [Reserved]

(g) [Reserved]

(h) [Reserved]

(i) Actuals PALs. The provisions in paragraphs (i)(1) through (15) govern actuals PALs. 

(1) Applicability. 

 (i) The Department may approve the use of an actuals PAL for any existing major stationary source 

(except as provided in paragraph (i)(1)(ii)) if the PAL meets the requirements in paragraphs (i)(1) through 

(15). The term "PAL" shall mean "actuals PAL" throughout paragraph (i). 

 (ii) The Department shall not allow an actuals PAL for VOC or NOx for any major stationary source 

located in an extreme ozone nonattainment area. 

 (iii) Any physical change in or change in the method of operation of a major stationary source that 

maintains its total source-wide emissions below the PAL level, meets the requirements in paragraphs 

(i)(1) through (15), and complies with the PAL permit: 

 (A) Is not a major modification for the PAL pollutant; 

 (B) Does not have to be approved through Regulation 61-62.5, Standard 7.1, “Nonattainment New 

Source Review”; however, will be reviewed through Regulation 61-62.1, Section II A. “Permit 

Requirements,” and 

 (C) Is not subject to the provisions in paragraph (d)(2)(D) (restrictions on relaxing enforceable 

emission limitations that the major stationary source used to avoid applicability of the nonattainment 

major NSR program). 

 (iv) Except as provided under paragraph (i)(1)(iii)(C), a major stationary source shall continue to 

comply with all applicable Federal or State requirements, emission limitations, and work practice 

requirements that were established prior to the effective date of the PAL. 

 (2) Definitions. The definitions in paragraphs (i)(2)(i) through (xi) shall apply to actuals PALs 

consistent with paragraphs (i)(1) through (15). When a term is not defined in these paragraphs, it shall 

have the meaning given in paragraph (c) of this regulation; paragraph (b) of Regulation 61-62.5, Standard 

7, “Prevention of Significant Deterioration”(“Standard 7”); or in the Clean Air Act. 

 (i) Actuals PAL for a major stationary source means a PAL based on the baseline actual emissions 

(as defined in paragraph (c)(1)) of all emissions units (as defined in paragraph (b)(20) of Standard 7) at 

the source, that emit or have the potential to emit the PAL pollutant. 

 (ii) Allowable emissions means "allowable emissions" as defined in paragraph (b)(3) of Standard 7, 

except as this definition is modified according to paragraphs (i)(2)(ii)(A) through (B). 
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 (A) The allowable emissions for any emissions unit shall be calculated considering any emission 

limitations that are enforceable as a practical matter on the emissions unit's potential to emit. 

 (B) An emissions unit's potential to emit shall be determined using the definition in paragraph 

(b)(37) of Standard 7, except that the words "or enforceable as a practical matter" should be added after 

"federally enforceable." 

 (iii) Small emissions unit means an emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit the PAL 

pollutant in an amount less than the significant level for that PAL pollutant, as defined in paragraph 

(c)(14) or in the Clean Air Act, whichever is lower. 

 (iv) Major emissions unit means: 

 (A) Any emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit 100 tons per year or more of the 

PAL pollutant in an attainment area; or 

 (B) Any emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit the PAL pollutant in an amount that 

is equal to or greater than the major source threshold for the PAL pollutant as defined by the Clean Air 

Act for nonattainment areas. For example, in accordance with the definition of major stationary source in 

section 182(c) of the Clean Air Act, an emissions unit would be a major emissions unit for VOC if the 

emissions unit is located in a serious ozone nonattainment area and it emits or has the potential to emit 50 

or more tons of VOC per year. 

 (v) Plantwide applicability limitation (PAL) means an emission limitation expressed in tons per 

year, for a pollutant at a major stationary source, that is enforceable as a practical matter and established 

source-wide in accordance with paragraphs (i)(1) through (i)(15). 

 (vi) PAL effective date generally means the date of issuance of the PAL permit. However, the PAL 

effective date for an increased PAL is the date any emissions unit which is part of the PAL major 

modification becomes operational and begins to emit the PAL pollutant. 

 (vii) PAL effective period means the period beginning with the PAL effective date and ending 10 

years later. 

 (viii) PAL major modification means, notwithstanding paragraphs (c)(6) and (8) (the definitions for 

major modification and net emissions increase), any physical change in or change in the method of 

operation of the PAL source that causes it to emit the PAL pollutant at a level equal to or greater than the 

PAL. 

 (ix) PAL permit means the major NSR permit, the minor NSR permit, or the State operating permit 

under Regulation 61-62.1 Section II G, or the title V permit issued by the Department that establishes a 

PAL for a major stationary source. 

 (x) PAL pollutant means the pollutant for which a PAL is established at a major stationary source. 

 (xi) Significant emissions unit means an emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit a PAL 

pollutant in an amount that is equal to or greater than the significant level (as defined in paragraph (c)(13) 

or in the Clean Air Act, whichever is lower) for that PAL pollutant, but less than the amount that would 

qualify the unit as a major emissions unit as defined in paragraph (i)(2)(iv). 
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(3) Permit application requirements. As part of a permit application requesting a PAL, the owner or 

operator of a major stationary source shall submit the following information to the Department for 

approval: 

 (i) A list of all emissions units at the source designated as small, significant or major based on their 

potential to emit. In addition, the owner or operator of the source shall indicate which, if any, Federal or 

State applicable requirements, emission limitations or work practices apply to each unit. 

 (ii) Calculations of the baseline actual emissions (with supporting documentation). Baseline actual 

emissions are to include emissions associated not only with operation of the unit, but also emissions 

associated with startup, shutdown and malfunction. 

 (iii) The calculation procedures that the major stationary source owner or operator proposes to use to 

convert the monitoring system data to monthly emissions and annual emissions based on a 12-month 

rolling total for each month as required by paragraph (i)(13)(i). 

(4) General requirements for establishing PALs. 

 (i) The Department is allowed to establish a PAL at a major stationary source, provided that at a 

minimum, the requirements in paragraphs (i)(4)(i)(A) through (G) are met. 

 (A) The PAL shall impose an annual emission limitation in tons per year, that is enforceable as a 

practical matter, for the entire major stationary source. For each month during the PAL effective period 

after the first 12 months of establishing a PAL, the major stationary source owner or operator shall show 

that the sum of the monthly emissions from each emissions unit under the PAL for the previous 12 

consecutive months is less than the PAL (a 12-month average, rolled monthly). For each month during 

the first 11 months from the PAL effective date, the major stationary source owner or operator shall show 

that the sum of the preceding monthly emissions from the PAL effective date for each emissions unit 

under the PAL is less than the PAL. 

 (B) The PAL shall be established in a PAL permit that meets the public participation requirements 

in paragraph (i)(5). 

 (C) The PAL permit shall contain all the requirements of paragraph (i)(7). 

 (D) The PAL shall include fugitive emissions, to the extent quantifiable, from all emissions units 

that emit or have the potential to emit the PAL pollutant at the major stationary source. 

 (E) Each PAL shall regulate emissions of only one pollutant. 

 (F) Each PAL shall have a PAL effective period of 10 years. 

 (G) The owner or operator of the major stationary source with a PAL shall comply with the 

monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements provided in paragraphs (i)(12) through (14) for 

each emissions unit under the PAL through the PAL effective period. 

 (ii) At no time (during or after the PAL effective period) are emissions reductions of a PAL 

pollutant, which occur during the PAL effective period, creditable as decreases for purposes of offsets 

under paragraph (d)(1)(c) unless the level of the PAL is reduced by the amount of such emissions 

reductions and such reductions would be creditable in the absence of the PAL. 
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(5) Public participation requirement for PALs. PALs for existing major stationary sources shall be 

established, renewed, or increased through a procedure that is consistent paragraph (d)(6) and (d)(7). The 

Department must address all material comments before taking final action on the permit. 

(6) Setting the 10-year actuals PAL level. (i) Except as provided in paragraph (i)(6)(ii), the actuals 

PAL level for a major stationary source shall be established as the sum of the baseline actual emissions 

(as defined in paragraph (c)(2)) of the PAL pollutant for each emissions unit at the source; plus an amount 

equal to the applicable significant level for the PAL pollutant under paragraph (c)(14) or under the Clean 

Air Act, whichever is lower. When establishing the actuals PAL level, for a PAL pollutant, only one 

consecutive 24-month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for all existing 

emissions units. However, a different consecutive 24-month period may be used for each different PAL 

pollutant. Emissions associated with units that were permanently shut down after this 24-month period 

must be subtracted from the PAL level. The Department shall specify a reduced PAL level(s) (in tons/yr) 

in the PAL permit to become effective on the future compliance date(s) of any applicable Federal or State 

regulatory requirement(s) that the Department is aware of prior to issuance of the PAL permit. For 

instance, if the source owner or operator will be required to reduce emissions from industrial boilers in 

half from baseline emissions of 60 ppm NOX to a new rule limit of 30 ppm, then the permit shall contain 

a future effective PAL level that is equal to the current PAL level reduced by half of the original baseline 

emissions of such unit(s). 

 (ii) For newly constructed units (which do not include modifications to existing units) on which 

operation began less than 24-months prior to the date of the PAL permit application, the emissions must 

be added to the PAL level in an amount equal to the potential to emit of the units. 

(7) Contents of the PAL permit. The PAL permit must contain, at a minimum, the information in 

paragraphs (i)(7)(i) through (x). 

 (i) The PAL pollutant and the applicable source-wide emission limitation in tons per year. 

 (ii) The PAL permit effective date and the expiration date of the PAL (PAL effective period). 

 (iii) Specification in the PAL permit that if a major stationary source owner or operator applies to 

renew a PAL in accordance with paragraph (i)(10) before the end of the PAL effective period, then the 

PAL shall not expire at the end of the PAL effective period. It shall remain in effect until a revised PAL 

permit is issued by the Department. 

 (iv) A requirement that emission calculations for compliance purposes include emissions from 

startups, shutdowns and malfunctions. 

 (v) A requirement that, once the PAL expires, the major stationary source is subject to the 

requirements of paragraph (i)(9). 

 (vi) The calculation procedures that the major stationary source owner or operator shall use to 

convert the monitoring system data to monthly emissions and annual emissions based on a 12-month 

rolling total for each month as required by paragraph (i)(13)(i). 

 (vii) A requirement that the major stationary source owner or operator monitor all emissions units in 

accordance with the provisions under paragraph (i)(12). 
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 (viii) A requirement to retain the records required under paragraph (i)(13) on site. Such records may 

be retained in an electronic format. 

 (ix) A requirement to submit the reports required under paragraph (i)(14) by the required deadlines. 

 (x) Any other requirements that the Department deems necessary to implement and enforce the PAL. 

(8) PAL effective period and reopening of the PAL permit. The requirements in paragraphs (i)(8)(i) 

and (ii) apply to actuals PALs. 

 (i) PAL effective period. The Department shall specify a PAL effective period of 10 years. 

 (ii) Reopening of the PAL permit. 

 (A) During the PAL effective period, the Department must reopen the PAL permit to: 

 (1) Correct typographical/calculation errors made in setting the PAL or reflect a more accurate 

determination of emissions used to establish the PAL. 

 (2) Reduce the PAL if the owner or operator of the major stationary source creates creditable 

emissions reductions for use as offsets under paragraph (d)(2). 

 (3) Revise the PAL to reflect an increase in the PAL as provided under paragraph (i)(11). 

 (B) The Department shall have discretion to reopen the PAL permit for the following: 

 (1) Reduce the PAL to reflect newly applicable Federal requirements (for example, NSPS) with 

compliance dates after the PAL effective date. 

 (2) Reduce the PAL consistent with any other requirement, that is enforceable as a practical 

matter, and that the Department may impose on the major stationary source under the State 

Implementation Plan. 

 (3) Reduce the PAL if the Department determines that a reduction is necessary to avoid causing 

or contributing to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or to an adverse impact on an air quality related 

value that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which 

information is available to the general public. 

 (C) Except for the permit reopening in paragraph (i)(8)(ii)(A)(1) for the correction of 

typographical/calculation errors that do not increase the PAL level, all other reopenings shall be carried 

out in accordance with the public participation requirements of paragraph (i)(5). 

(9) Expiration of a PAL. Any PAL which is not renewed in accordance with the procedures in 

paragraph (i)(10) shall expire at the end of the PAL effective period, and the requirements in paragraphs 

(i)(9)(i) through (v) shall apply. 

 (i) Each emissions unit (or each group of emissions units) that existed under the PAL shall comply 

with an allowable emission limitation under a revised permit established according to the procedures in 

paragraphs (i)(9)(i)(A) through (B). 

 (A) Within the time frame specified for PAL renewals in paragraph (i)(10)(ii), the major stationary 
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source shall submit a proposed allowable emission limitation for each emissions unit (or each group of 

emissions units, if such a distribution is more appropriate as decided by the Department) by distributing 

the PAL allowable emissions for the major stationary source among each of the emissions units that 

existed under the PAL. If the PAL had not yet been adjusted for an applicable requirement that became 

effective during the PAL effective period, as required under paragraph (i)(10)(v), such distribution shall 

be made as if the PAL had been adjusted. 

 (B) The Department shall decide whether and how the PAL allowable emissions will be 

distributed and issue a revised permit incorporating allowable limits for each emissions unit, or each 

group of emissions units, as the Department determines is appropriate. 

 (ii) Each emissions unit(s) shall comply with the allowable emission limitation on a 12-month rolling 

basis. The Department may approve the use of monitoring systems (source testing, emission factors, etc.) 

other than CEMS, CERMS, PEMS or CPMS to demonstrate compliance with the allowable emission 

limitation. 

 (iii) Until the Department issues the revised permit incorporating allowable limits for each emissions 

unit, or each group of emissions units, as required under paragraph (i)(9)(i)(A), the source shall continue 

to comply with a source-wide, multi-unit emissions cap equivalent to the level of the PAL emission 

limitation. 

 (iv) Any physical change or change in the method of operation at the major stationary source will be 

subject to the nonattainment major NSR requirements if such change meets the definition of major 

modification in paragraph (c)(6). 

 (v) The major stationary source owner or operator shall continue to comply with any State or Federal 

applicable requirements (BACT, RACT, NSPS, etc.) that may have applied either during the PAL 

effective period or prior to the PAL effective period except for those emission limitations that had been 

established pursuant to paragraph (d)(2)(D), but were eliminated by the PAL in accordance with the 

provisions in paragraph (i)(1)(iii)(C). 

(10) Renewal of a PAL. 

 (i) The Department shall follow the procedures specified in paragraph (i)(5) in approving any request 

to renew a PAL for a major stationary source, and shall provide both the proposed PAL level and a 

written rationale for the proposed PAL level to the public for review and comment. During such public 

review, any person may propose a PAL level for the source for consideration by the Department. 

 (ii) Application deadline. A major stationary source owner or operator shall submit a timely 

application to the Department to request renewal of a PAL. A timely application is one that is submitted 

at least 6 months prior to, but not earlier than 18 months from, the date of permit expiration. This deadline 

for application submittal is to ensure that the permit will not expire before the permit is renewed. If the 

owner or operator of a major stationary source submits a complete application to renew the PAL within 

this time period, then the PAL shall continue to be effective until the revised permit with the renewed 

PAL is issued. 

 (iii) Application requirements. The application to renew a PAL permit shall contain the 

information required in paragraphs (i)(10)(iii)(A) through (D). 

 (A) The information required in paragraphs (i)(3)(i) through (iii). 
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 (B) A proposed PAL level. 

 (C) The sum of the potential to emit of all emissions units under the PAL (with supporting 

documentation). 

 (D) Any other information the owner or operator wishes the Department to consider in 

determining the appropriate level for renewing the PAL. 

 (iv) PAL adjustment. In determining whether and how to adjust the PAL, the Department shall 

consider the options outlined in paragraphs (i)(10)(iv)(A) and (B). However, in no case may any such 

adjustment fail to comply with paragraph (i)(10)(iv)(C). 

 (A) If the emissions level calculated in accordance with paragraph (i)(6) is equal to or greater than 

80 percent of the PAL level, the Department may renew the PAL at the same level without considering 

the factors set forth in paragraph (i)(10)(iv)(B); or 

 (B) The Department may set the PAL at a level that it determines to be more representative of the 

source's baseline actual emissions, or that it determines to be appropriate considering air quality needs, 

advances in control technology, anticipated economic growth in the area, desire to reward or encourage 

the source's voluntary emissions reductions, or other factors as specifically identified by the Department 

in its written rationale. 

 (C) Notwithstanding paragraphs (i)(10)(iv)(A) and (B), 

 (1) If the potential to emit of the major stationary source is less than the PAL, the Department 

shall adjust the PAL to a level no greater than the potential to emit of the source; and 

 (2) The Department shall not approve a renewed PAL level higher than the current PAL, unless 

the major stationary source has complied with the provisions of paragraph (i)(11) (increasing a PAL). 

 (v) If the compliance date for a State or Federal requirement that applies to the PAL source occurs 

during the PAL effective period, and if the Department has not already adjusted for such requirement, the 

PAL shall be adjusted at the time of PAL permit renewal or title V permit renewal, whichever occurs first. 

(11) Increasing a PAL during the PAL effective period.

 (i) The Department may increase a PAL emission limitation only if the major stationary source 

complies with the provisions in paragraphs (i)(11)(i)(A) through (D). 

 (A) The owner or operator of the major stationary source shall submit a complete application to 

request an increase in the PAL limit for a PAL major modification. Such application shall identify the 

emissions unit(s) contributing to the increase in emissions so as to cause the major stationary source's 

emissions to equal or exceed its PAL. 

 (B) As part of this application, the major stationary source owner or operator shall demonstrate 

that the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the small emissions units, plus the sum of the baseline 

actual emissions of the significant and major emissions units assuming application of BACT equivalent 

controls, plus the sum of the allowable emissions of the new or modified emissions unit(s) exceeds the 

PAL. The level of control that would result from BACT equivalent controls on each significant or major 

emissions unit shall be determined by conducting a new BACT analysis at the time the application is 

submitted, unless the emissions unit is currently required to comply with a BACT or LAER requirement 
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that was established within the preceding 10 years. In such a case, the assumed control level for that 

emissions unit shall be equal to the level of BACT or LAER with which that emissions unit must 

currently comply. 

 (C) The owner or operator obtains a major NSR permit for all emissions unit(s) identified in 

paragraph (i)(11)(i)(A), regardless of the magnitude of the emissions increase resulting from them (that is, 

no significant levels apply). These emissions unit(s) shall comply with any emissions requirements 

resulting from the nonattainment major NSR program process (for example, LAER), even though they 

have also become subject to the PAL or continue to be subject to the PAL. 

 (D) The PAL permit shall require that the increased PAL level shall be effective on the day any 

emissions unit that is part of the PAL major modification becomes operational and begins to emit the 

PAL pollutant. 

 (ii) The Department shall calculate the new PAL as the sum of the allowable emissions for each 

modified or new emissions unit, plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the significant and major 

emissions units (assuming application of BACT equivalent controls as determined in accordance with 

paragraph (i)(11)(i)(B)), plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the small emissions units. 

 (iii) The PAL permit shall be revised to reflect the increased PAL level pursuant to the public notice 

requirements of paragraph (i)(5). 

(12) Monitoring requirements for PALs. 

 (i) General Requirements. 

 (A) Each PAL permit must contain enforceable requirements for the monitoring system that 

accurately determines plantwide emissions of the PAL pollutant in terms of mass per unit of time. Any 

monitoring system authorized for use in the PAL permit must be based on sound science and meet 

generally acceptable scientific procedures for data quality and manipulation. Additionally, the 

information generated by such system must meet minimum legal requirements for admissibility in a 

judicial proceeding to enforce the PAL permit. 

 (B) The PAL monitoring system must employ one or more of the four general monitoring 

approaches meeting the minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs (i)(12)(ii)(A) through (D) and 

must be approved by the Department. 

 (C) Notwithstanding paragraph (i)(12)(i)(B), you may also employ an alternative monitoring 

approach that meets paragraph (i)(12)(i)(A) if approved by the Department. 

 (D) Failure to use a monitoring system that meets the requirements of this regulation renders the 

PAL invalid. 

 (ii) Minimum Performance Requirements for Approved Monitoring Approaches. The following are 

acceptable general monitoring approaches when conducted in accordance with the minimum requirements 

in paragraphs (i)(12)(iii) through (ix): 

 (A) Mass balance calculations for activities using coatings or solvents; 

 (B) Continuous emissions monitoring system (CEMS); 
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 (C) Continuous parameter monitoring system (CPMS) or Predictive emissions monitoring system 

(PEMS); and 

 (D) Emission Factors. 

 (iii) Mass Balance Calculations. An owner or operator using mass balance calculations to monitor 

PAL pollutant emissions from activities using coating or solvents shall meet the following requirements: 

 (A) Provide a demonstrated means of validating the published content of the PAL pollutant that is 

contained in or created by all materials used in or at the emissions unit; 

 (B) Assume that the emissions unit emits all of the PAL pollutant that is contained in or created by 

any raw material or fuel used in or at the emissions unit, if it cannot otherwise be accounted for in the 

process; and 

 (C) Where the vendor of a material or fuel, which is used in or at the emissions unit, publishes a 

range of pollutant content from such material, the owner or operator must use the highest value of the 

range to calculate the PAL pollutant emissions unless the Department determines there is site-specific 

data or a site-specific monitoring program to support another content within the range. 

 (iv) CEMS. An owner or operator using CEMS to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the 

following requirements: 

 (A) CEMS must comply with applicable Performance Specifications found in 40 CFR part 60, 

appendix B; and 

 (B) CEMS must sample, analyze and record data at least every 15 minutes while the emissions 

unit is operating. 

 (v) CPMS or PEMS. An owner or operator using CPMS or PEMS to monitor PAL pollutant 

emissions shall meet the following requirements: 

 (A) The CPMS or the PEMS must be based on current site-specific data demonstrating a 

correlation between the monitored parameter(s) and the PAL pollutant emissions across the range of 

operation of the emissions unit; and 

 (B) Each CPMS or PEMS must sample, analyze, and record data at least every 15 minutes, or at 

another less frequent interval approved by the Department, while the emissions unit is operating. 

 (vi) Emission factors. An owner or operator using emission factors to monitor PAL pollutant 

emissions shall meet the following requirements: 

 (A) All emission factors shall be adjusted, if appropriate, to account for the degree of uncertainty 

or limitations in the factors' development; 

 (B) The emissions unit shall operate within the designated range of use for the emission factor, if 

applicable; and 

 (C) If technically practicable, the owner or operator of a significant emissions unit that relies on an 

emission factor to calculate PAL pollutant emissions shall conduct validation testing to determine a sitespecific emission factor within 6 months of PAL permit issuance, unless the Department determines that 
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testing is not required. 

 (vii) A source owner or operator must record and report maximum potential emissions without 

considering enforceable emission limitations or operational restrictions for an emissions unit during any 

period of time that there is no monitoring data, unless another method for determining emissions during 

such periods is specified in the PAL permit. 

 (viii) Notwithstanding the requirements in paragraphs (i)(12)(iii) through (vii), where an owner or 

operator of an emissions unit cannot demonstrate a correlation between the monitored parameter(s) and 

the PAL pollutant emissions rate at all operating points of the emissions unit, the Department shall, at the 

time of permit issuance: 

 (A) Establish default value(s) for determining compliance with the PAL based on the highest 

potential emissions reasonably estimated at such operating point(s); or 

 (B) Determine that operation of the emissions unit during operating conditions when there is no 

correlation between monitored parameter(s) and the PAL pollutant emissions is a violation of the PAL. 

 (ix) Re-validation. All data used to establish the PAL pollutant must be re-validated through 

performance testing or other scientifically valid means approved by the Department. Such testing must 

occur at least once every 5 years after issuance of the PAL. 

(13) Recordkeeping requirements. 

 (i) The PAL permit shall require an owner or operator to retain a copy of all records necessary to 

determine compliance with any requirement of paragraph (i) and of the PAL, including a determination of 

each emissions unit's 12-month rolling total emissions, for 5 years from the date of such record. 

 (ii) The PAL permit shall require an owner or operator to retain a copy of the following records for 

the duration of the PAL effective period plus 5 years: 

 (A) A copy of the PAL permit application and any applications for revisions to the PAL; and 

 (B) Each annual certification of compliance pursuant to title V and the data relied on in certifying 

the compliance. 

(14) Reporting and notification requirements. The owner or operator shall submit semi-annual 

monitoring reports and prompt deviation reports to the Department in accordance with the applicable title 

V operating permit program. The reports shall meet the requirements in paragraphs (i)(14)(i) through (iii). 

 (i) Semi-Annual Report. The semi-annual report shall be submitted to the Department within 30 days 

of the end of each reporting period. This report shall contain the information required in paragraphs 

(i)(14)(i)(A) through (G). 

 (A) The identification of owner and operator and the permit number. 

 (B) Total annual emissions (tons/year) based on a 12-month rolling total for each month in the 

reporting period recorded pursuant to paragraph (i)(13)(i). 

 (C) All data relied upon, including, but not limited to, any Quality Assurance or Quality Control 

data, in calculating the monthly and annual PAL pollutant emissions. 
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 (D) A list of any emissions units modified or added to the major stationary source during the 

preceding 6-month period. 

 (E) The number, duration, and cause of any deviations or monitoring malfunctions (other than the 

time associated with zero and span calibration checks), and any corrective action taken. 

 (F) A notification of a shutdown of any monitoring system, whether the shutdown was permanent 

or temporary, the reason for the shutdown, the anticipated date that the monitoring system will be fully 

operational or replaced with another monitoring system, and whether the emissions unit monitored by the 

monitoring system continued to operate, and the calculation of the emissions of the pollutant or the 

number determined by method included in the permit, as provided by paragraph (i)(12)(vii). 

 (G) A signed statement by the responsible official (as defined by Regulation 61-62.70, Title V 

Operating Permit Program) certifying the truth, accuracy, and completeness of the information provided 

in the report. 

 (ii) Deviation report. The major stationary source owner or operator shall promptly submit reports of 

any deviations or exceedance of the PAL requirements, including periods where no monitoring is 

available. A report submitted pursuant to 40 CFR 70.6(a)(3)(iii)(B) shall satisfy this reporting 

requirement. The deviation reports shall be submitted within the time limits prescribed by the applicable 

program implementing 40 CFR 70.6(a)(3)(iii)(B). The reports shall contain the following information: 

 (A) The identification of owner and operator and the permit number; 

 (B) The PAL requirement that experienced the deviation or that was exceeded; 

 (C) Emissions resulting from the deviation or the exceedance; and 

 (D) A signed statement by the responsible official (as defined by the applicable title V operating 

permit program) certifying the truth, accuracy, and completeness of the information provided in the 

report. 

 (iii) Re-validation results. The owner or operator shall submit to the Department the results of any revalidation test or method within 3 months after completion of such test or method. 

(15) Transition requirements. 

 (i) The Department may not issue a PAL that does not comply with the requirements in paragraphs 

(aa)(1) through (15) after the date these provisions become effective. 

 (ii) The Department may supersede any PAL which was established prior to the date of approval of 

the plan by the Administrator with a PAL that complies with the requirements of paragraphs (i)(1) 

through (15). 

(j) If any provision of this regulation, or the application of such provision to any person or circumstance, 

is held invalid, the remainder of this regulation, or the application of such provision to persons or 

circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid, shall not be affected thereby. 
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R. 61-62.5, Standard No. 7 History - South Carolina State Register: 

 Vol. 29, Issue No. 6. (Doc. No. 2943), June 24, 2005; 

 Vol. 33, Issue No. 4, (Doc. No. 4056), April 24, 2009.
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SOUTH CAROLINA 

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL 

AIR POLLUTION CONTROL REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS 

REGULATION 61-62.5 

AIR POLLUTION CONTROL STANDARDS 

STANDARD NO. 7.1 

NONATTAINMENT NEW SOURCE REVIEW (NSR) 

(a) Applicability 

 (1) This rule applies to all major stationary sources constructed or modified in any nonattainment area 

as designated in 40 CFR 81.341 ("nonattainment area") if the emissions from such facility will cause or 

contribute to concentrations of a regulated NSR pollutant (as defined in paragraph (c)(13)) for which the 

nonattainment area was designated as nonattainment. Applicability to this regulation shall be based on the 

pollutant emission rate set out in paragraph (c)(14) for only those pollutants for which the area’s 

designation is based. 

 (A) The requirements of paragraph (d) apply to the construction of any new major stationary source 

or the major modification of any existing major stationary source, except as provided in paragraph (b). 

 (B) No new major stationary source or major modification to which the requirements of paragraph 

(d) apply shall begin actual construction without a permit that states that the major stationary source or 

major modification will meet those requirements. The Department has authority to issue any such permit. 

 (2) Redesignation to attainment. If any nonattainment area to which this regulation applies is later 

designated in 40 CFR 81.341 as attainment, all sources in that nonattainment area subject to this 

regulation before the redesignation date shall continue to comply with this regulation. 

 (3) For any area designated as nonattainment a major stationary source or major modification that is 

major for volatile organic compounds or oxides of nitrogen is also major for ozone. 

(b) Applicability procedures. 

 (1) Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs (b)(7) and (8), and consistent with the definition of 

major modification contained in paragraph (c)(6)(A), a project is a major modification for a regulated 

NSR pollutant if it causes two types of emissions increases – a significant emissions increase (as defined 

in paragraph (c)(15), and a significant net emissions increase (as defined in paragraphs (c)(8) and (15). 

The project is not a major modification if it does not cause a significant emissions increase. If the project 

causes a significant emissions increase, then the project is a major modification only if it also results in a 

significant net emissions increase. 

 (2) The procedure for calculating (before beginning actual construction) whether a significant 

emissions increase (i.e., the first step of the process) will occur depends upon the type of emissions units 

being modified, according to paragraphs (b)(1) through (6). The procedure for calculating (before 

beginning actual construction) whether a significant net emissions increase will occur at the major 

stationary source (i.e., the second step of the process) is contained in the definition in paragraph (c)(8). 

Regardless of any such preconstruction projections, a major modification results if the project causes a 

significant emissions increase and a significant net emissions increase. 
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 (3) Actual-to-projected-actual applicability test for projects that only involve existing emissions 

units. A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the 

difference between the projected actual emissions (as defined in paragraph (c)(11)) and the baseline actual 

emissions (as defined in paragraphs (c)(2)(A) and (B), as applicable), for each existing emissions unit, 

equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant (as defined in paragraph (c)(14)). 

 (4) Actual-to-potential test for projects that only involve construction of a new emissions unit(s).

A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the 

difference between the potential to emit (as defined in paragraph (b)(37) of Regulation 61-62.5 Standard 

7, “Prevention of Significant Deterioration” (“Standard 7”)) from each new emissions unit following 

completion of the project and the baseline actual emissions (as defined in paragraph (c)(2)(C)) of these 

units before the project equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant (as defined in 

paragraph (c)(14)). 

 (5) [Reserved] 

 (6) Hybrid test for projects that involve multiple types of emissions units. A significant emissions 

increase of a regulated NSR pollutant is projected to occur if the sum of the emissions increases for each 

emissions unit, using the method specified in paragraphs (b)(3) and (4) as applicable with respect to each 

emissions unit, for each type of emissions unit equals or exceeds the significant amount for that pollutant 

(as defined in paragraph (c)(14)). 

 (7) For any major stationary source for a Plantwide Applicability Limitation (PAL) for a regulated 

NSR pollutant, the major stationary source shall comply with requirements under paragraph (i). 

(c) Definitions. The following definitions apply to this Standard only. Any other term contained within 

this Standard is as defined where indicated in Regulation 61-62.5, Standard 7, “Prevention of Significant 

Deterioration.” 

 (1)(A) “Actual emissions” means the actual rate of emissions of a regulated NSR pollutant from an 

emissions unit, as determined in accordance with paragraphs (c)(1)(B) through (D), except that this 

definition shall not apply for calculating whether a significant emissions increase has occurred, or for 

establishing a PAL under paragraph (i). Instead, paragraphs (c)(2) and (c)(11) shall apply for those 

purposes. 

 (B) In general, actual emissions as of a particular date shall equal the average rate, in tons per year, 

at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during a consecutive 24-month period which precedes the 

particular date and which is representative of normal source operation. The Department shall allow the 

use of a different time period upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source 

operation. Actual emissions shall be calculated using the unit's actual operating hours, production rates, 

and types of materials processed, stored, or combusted during the selected time period. 

 (C) The Department may presume that source-specific allowable emissions for the unit are 

equivalent to the actual emissions of the unit. 

 (D) For any emissions unit that has not begun normal operations on the particular date, actual 

emissions shall equal the potential to emit of the unit on that date. 

 (2) “Baseline actual emissions” means the rate of emissions, in tons per year, of a regulated NSR 

pollutant, as determined in accordance with paragraphs (c)(2)(A) through (D). 
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 (A) For any existing electric utility steam generating unit, baseline actual emissions means the 

average rate, in tons per year, at which the unit actually emitted the pollutant during any consecutive 24-

month period selected by the owner or operator within the 5-year period immediately preceding when the 

owner or operator begins actual construction of the project. The Department shall allow the use of a 

different time period upon a determination that it is more representative of normal source operation. 

 (i) The average rate shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions 

associated with startups, and shutdowns. 

 (ii) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any non-compliant emissions that 

occurred while the source was operating above any emission limitation that was legally enforceable 

during the consecutive 24-month period. 

 (iii) For a regulated NSR pollutant, when a project involves multiple emissions units, only one 

consecutive 24-month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for the emissions 

units being changed. A different consecutive 24-month period can be used for each regulated NSR 

pollutant. 

 (iv) The average rate shall not be based on any consecutive 24-month period for which there is 

inadequate information for determining annual emissions, in tons per year, and for adjusting this amount 

if required by paragraph (c)(2)(A)(ii). 

 (B) For an existing emissions unit (other than an electric utility steam generating unit), baseline 

actual emissions means the average rate, in tons per year, at which the emissions unit actually emitted the 

pollutant during any consecutive 24-month period selected by the owner or operator within the 10-year 

period immediately preceding either the date the owner or operator begins actual construction of the 

project, or the date a complete permit application is received by the Department for a permit required 

either under this section or under a plan approved by the Administrator whichever is earlier, except that 

the 10-year period shall not include any period earlier than November 15, 1990. The Department reserves 

the right to determine if the 24-month period selected is appropriate. 

 (i) The average rate shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions 

associated with startups and shutdowns. 

 (ii) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any non-compliant emissions that 

occurred while the source was operating above an emission limitation that was legally enforceable during 

the consecutive 24-month period. 

 (iii) The average rate shall be adjusted downward to exclude any emissions that would have 

exceeded an emission limitation with which the major stationary source must currently comply, had such 

major stationary source been required to comply with such limitations during the consecutive 24-month 

period. However, if an emission limitation is part of a maximum achievable control technology standard 

that the Administrator proposed or promulgated under 40 CFR 63, the baseline actual emissions need 

only be adjusted if the State has taken credit for such emissions reductions in an attainment demonstration 

or maintenance plan consistent with the requirements of paragraph (d)(1)(c)(viii). 

 (iv) For a regulated NSR pollutant, when a project involves multiple emissions units, only one 

consecutive 24-month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for the emissions 

units being changed. A different consecutive 24-month period can be used for each regulated NSR 

pollutant. 
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 (v) The average rate shall not be based on any consecutive 24-month period for which there is 

inadequate information for determining annual emissions, in tons per year, and for adjusting this amount 

if required by paragraphs (c)(2)(B)(ii) and (iii). 

 (C) For a new emissions unit, the baseline actual emissions for purposes of determining the 

emissions increase that will result from the initial construction and operation of such unit shall equal zero; 

and thereafter, for all other purposes, shall equal the unit's potential to emit. 

 (D) For a PAL for a major stationary source, the baseline actual emissions shall be calculated for 

existing electric utility steam generating units in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph 

(c)(2)(A), for other existing emissions units in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph 

(c)(2)(B), and for a new emissions unit in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph 

(c)(2)(C). 

 (3) “Best available control technology (BACT)” means an emissions limitation (including a visible 

emissions standard) based on the maximum degree of reduction for each regulated NSR pollutant which 

would be emitted from any proposed major stationary source or major modification which the 

Department, on a case-by-case basis, taking into account energy, environmental, and economic impacts 

and other costs, determines is achievable for such source or modification through application of 

production processes or available methods, systems, and techniques, including fuel cleaning or treatment 

or innovative fuel combustion techniques for control of such pollutant. In no event shall application of 

best available control technology result in emissions of any pollutant which would exceed the emissions 

allowed by any applicable standard under 40 CFR 60 or 61. If the Department determines that 

technological or economic limitations on the application of measurement methodology to a particular 

emissions unit would make the imposition of an emissions standard infeasible, a design, equipment, work 

practice, operational standard, or combination thereof, may be prescribed instead to satisfy the 

requirement for the application of BACT. Such standard shall, to the degree possible, set forth the 

emissions reduction achievable by implementation of such design, equipment, work practice or operation, 

and shall provide for compliance by means which achieve equivalent results. 

 (4) [Reserved] 

 (5) “Lowest achievable emission rate (LAER)” means, for any source, the more stringent rate of 

emissions based on the following: 

 (A) The most stringent emissions limitation which is contained in the implementation plan of any 

State for such class or category of stationary source, unless the owner or operator of the proposed 

stationary source demonstrates that such limitations are not achievable; or 

 (B) The most stringent emissions limitation which is achieved in practice by such class or category 

of stationary sources. This limitation, when applied to a modification, means the lowest achievable 

emissions rate for the new or modified emissions units within a stationary source. In no event shall the 

application of the term permit a proposed new or modified stationary source to emit any pollutant in 

excess of the amount allowable under an applicable new source standard of performance. 

 (6)(A) “Major modification” means any physical change in or change in the method of operation of 

a major stationary source that would result in: 

 (i) A significant emissions increase of a regulated NSR pollutant (as defined in paragraph (c)(13)); 

and 
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 (ii) A significant net emissions increase of that pollutant from the major stationary source. 

 (B) Any significant emissions increase (as defined in paragraph (c)(15)) from any emissions units or 

net emissions increase (as defined in paragraph (c)(8)) at a major stationary source that is significant for 

volatile organic compounds or oxides of nitrogen shall be considered significant for ozone. 

 (C) A physical change or change in the method of operation shall not include: 

 (i) Routine maintenance, repair and replacement; 

 (ii) Use of an alternative fuel or raw material by reason of an order under sections 2(a) and (b) of 

the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974 (or any superseding legislation) or by 

reason of a natural gas curtailment plan pursuant to the Federal Power Act; 

 (iii) Use of an alternative fuel by reason of an order or rule section 125 of the Clean Air Act; 

 (iv) Use of an alternative fuel at a steam generating unit to the extent that the fuel is generated 

from municipal solid waste; 

 (v) Use of an alternative fuel or raw material by a stationary source which; 

 (a) The source was capable of accommodating before December 21, 1976, unless such change 

would be prohibited under any federally enforceable permit condition which was established after 

December 12, 1976, or 

 (b) The source is approved to use under any permit issued under regulations approved pursuant 

to this section; 

 (vi) An increase in the hours of operation or in the production rate, unless such change is 

prohibited under any federally enforceable permit condition which was established after December 21, 

1976. 

 (vii) Any change in ownership at a stationary source. 

 (viii) [Reserved] 

 (ix) The installation, operation, cessation, or removal of a temporary clean coal technology 

demonstration project, provided that the project complies with: 

 (a) The South Carolina State Implementation Plan, and 

 (b) Other requirements necessary to attain and maintain the national ambient air quality 

standard during the project and after it is terminated. 

 (D) This definition shall not apply with respect to a particular regulated NSR pollutant when the 

major stationary source is complying with the requirements under paragraph (i) for a PAL for that 

pollutant. Instead, the definition at paragraph (i)(2)(viii) shall apply. 

 (7)(A) “Major stationary source” means: 
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 (i) Any stationary source of air pollutants which emits, or has the potential to emit 100 tons per 

year or more of any regulated NSR pollutant, or 

 (ii) Any physical change that would occur at a stationary source not qualifying under paragraph 

(c)(7)(A)(i) as a major stationary source, if the change would constitute a major stationary source by 

itself. 

 (B) A major stationary source that is major for volatile organic compounds or oxides of nitrogen 

shall be considered major for ozone. 

 (C) The fugitive emissions of a stationary source shall not be included in determining for any of the 

purposes of this paragraph whether it is a major stationary source, unless the source belongs to one of the 

following categories of stationary sources: 

 (i) Coal cleaning plants (with thermal dryers); 

 (ii) Kraft pulp mills; 

 (iii) Portland cement plants; 

 (iv) Primary zinc smelters; 

 (v) Iron and steel mills; 

 (vi) Primary aluminum ore reduction plants; 

 (vii) Primary copper smelters; 

 (viii) Municipal incinerators capable of charging more than 250 tons of refuse per day; 

 (ix) Hydrofluoric, sulfuric, or nitric acid plants; 

 (x) Petroleum refineries; 

 (xi) Lime plants; 

 (xii) Phosphate rock processing plants; 

 (xiii) Coke oven batteries; 

 (xiv) Sulfur recovery plants; 

 (xv) Carbon black plants (furnace process); 

 (xvi) Primary lead smelters; 

 (xvii) Fuel conversion plants; 

 (xviii) Sintering plants; 

 (xix) Secondary metal production plants; 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (xx) Chemical process plants – The term chemical processing plant shall not include ethanol 

production facilities that produce ethanol by natural fermentation included in NAICS codes 325193 or 

312140; 

 (xxi) Fossil-fuel boilers (or combination thereof) totaling more than 250 million British thermal 

units per hour heat input; 

 (xxii) Petroleum storage and transfer units with a total storage capacity exceeding 300,000 barrels; 

 (xxiii) Taconite ore processing plants; 

 (xxiv) Glass fiber processing plants; 

 (xxv) Charcoal production plants; 

 (xxvi) Fossil fuel-fired steam electric plants of more than 250 million British thermal units per 

hour heat input; and 

 (xxvii) Any other stationary source category which, as of August 7, 1980, is being regulated under 

section 111 or 112 of the Clean Air Act. 

(8)(A) “Net emissions increase” means, with respect to any regulated NSR pollutant emitted by a 

major stationary source, the amount by which the sum of the following exceeds zero: 

 (i) The increase in emissions from a particular physical change or change in the method of 

operation at a stationary source as calculated pursuant to paragraph (b); and 

 (ii) Any other increases and decreases in actual emissions at the major stationary source that are 

contemporaneous with the particular change and are otherwise creditable. Baseline actual emissions for 

calculating increases and decreases under this paragraph (c)(8)(A)(ii) shall be determined as provided in 

paragraph (c)(2), except that paragraphs (c)(2)(A)(iii) and (c)(2)(B)(iv) shall not apply. 

 (B) An increase or decrease in actual emissions is contemporaneous with the increase from the 

particular change only if it occurs before the date that the increase from the particular change occurs; 

 (C) An increase or decrease in actual emissions is creditable only if: 

 (i) It occurs within five years before construction on the particular change commences; and 

 (ii) The Department has not relied on it in issuing a permit for the source, which permit is in effect 

when the increase in actual emissions from the particular change occurs. 

 (D) An increase in actual emissions is creditable only to the extent that the new level of actual 

emissions exceeds the old level. 

 (E) A decrease in actual emissions is creditable only to the extent that: 

 (i) The old level of actual emission or the old level of allowable emissions whichever is lower, 

exceeds the new level of actual emissions; 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (ii) It is enforceable as a practical matter at and after the time that actual construction on the 

particular change begins; and 

 (iii) The Department has not relied on it in issuing any permit or the Department has not relied on 

it in demonstrating attainment or reasonable further progress; 

 (iv) It has approximately the same qualitative significance for public health and welfare as that 

attributed to the increase from the particular change. 

 (F) An increase that results from a physical change at a source occurs when the emissions unit on 

which construction occurred becomes operational and begins to emit a particular pollutant. Any 

replacement unit that requires shakedown becomes operational only after a reasonable shakedown period, 

not to exceed 180 days. 

 (G) Paragraph (c)(1)(B) shall not apply for determining creditable increases and decreases or after a 

change. 

(9) “Nonattainment major new source review (NSR) program” means a major source 

preconstruction permit program that has been approved by the Administrator and incorporated into the 

plan to implement the requirements of this regulation, or a program that implements 40 CFR 51, appendix 

S, Sections I through VI. Any permit issued under such a program is a major NSR permit. 

(10) [Reserved]

 (11)(A) “Projected actual emissions” means, the maximum annual rate, in tons per year, at which an 

existing emissions unit is projected to emit a regulated NSR pollutant in any one of the 5 years (12-month 

period) following the date the unit resumes regular operation after the project, or in any one of the 10 

years following that date, if the project involves increasing the emissions unit's design capacity or its 

potential to emit of that regulated NSR pollutant and full utilization of the unit would result in a 

significant emissions increase or a significant net emissions increase at the major stationary source. 

 (B) In determining the projected actual emissions under paragraph (c)(11)(A) before beginning 

actual construction, the owner or operator of the major stationary source: 

 (i) Shall consider all relevant information, including but not limited to, historical operational data, 

the company's own representations, the company's expected business activity and the company's highest 

projections of business activity, the company's filings with the State or Federal regulatory authorities, and 

compliance plans under the approved plan; and 

 (ii) Shall include fugitive emissions to the extent quantifiable, and emissions associated with 

startups, and shutdowns; and 

 (iii) Shall exclude, in calculating any increase in emissions that results from the particular project, 

that portion of the unit's emissions following the project that an existing unit could have accommodated 

during the consecutive 24-month period used to establish the baseline actual emissions under paragraph 

(c)(2) and that are also unrelated to the particular project, including any increased utilization due to 

product demand growth; or, 

 (iv) In lieu of using the method set out in paragraphs (c)(11)(B)(i) through (iii) may elect to use 

the emissions unit's potential to emit, in tons per year, as defined under paragraph (b)(37) of Standard 7. 

(12) “Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) permit” means any permit that is issued under 
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a major source preconstruction permit program that has been approved by the Administrator and 

incorporated into the plan to implement the requirements of 40 CFR 51.166, or under the program in 40 

CFR 52.21. 

(13) “Regulated NSR pollutant,” for purposes of this regulation, means the following: 

 (A) Oxides of nitrogen or any volatile organic compounds; 

 (B) Any pollutant for which a national ambient air quality standard has been promulgated; or 

 (C) Any pollutant that is a constituent or precursor of a general pollutant listed under paragraphs 

(c)(13)(A) or (B), provided that a constituent or precursor pollutant may only be regulated under NSR as 

part of regulation of the general pollutant. Precursors identified by the Administrator for purposes of NSR 

are the following: 

(a) Volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides are precursors to ozone in all ozone 

nonattainment areas; 

(b) Sulfur dioxide is a precursor to PM2.5 in all PM2.5 nonattainment areas; 

(c) Nitrogen oxides are presumed to be precursors to PM2.5 in all PM2.5 nonattainment areas, 

unless the State demonstrates to the Administrator’s satisfaction or EPA demonstrates that emissions of 

nitrogen oxides from sources in a specific area are not a significant contributor to that area’s ambient PM 

2.5 concentrations; 

(d) Volatile organic compounds and ammonia are presumed not to be precursors to PM2.5 in 

any PM2.5 nonattainment area, unless the State demonstrates to the Administrator’s satisfaction or EPA 

demonstrates that emissions of volatile organic compounds or ammonia from sources in a specific area 

are a significant contributor to that area’s ambient PM2.5 concentrations; or 

(D) PM2.5 emissions and PM10 emissions shall include gaseous emissions from a source or 

activity which condense to form particulate matter at ambient temperatures. On or after January 1, 2011 

(or any earlier date established in the upcoming rulemaking codifying test methods), such condensable 

particulate matter shall be accounted for in applicability determinations and in establishing emissions 

limitations for PM2.5 and PM10 in permits issued under this ruling. Compliance with emissions limitations 

for PM2.5 and PM10 issued prior to this date shall not be based on condensable particulate matter unless 

required by the terms and conditions of the permit or the applicable implementation plan. Applicability 

determinations made prior to this date without accounting for condensable particulate matter shall not be 

considered in violation of this section unless the applicable implementation plan required condensable 

particulate matter to be included. 

(14) “Significant” means, in reference to a net emissions increase or the potential of a source to emit any 

of the following pollutants, as rate of emissions that would equal or exceed any of the following rates: 

Pollutant Emission Rate 

Carbon monoxide: 100 tons per year (tpy) 

Nitrogen oxides: 40 tpy 

Particulate matter: 
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 15 tpy of PM10 emissions 

 10 tpy of direct PM2.5 ; 

 40 tpy of sulfur dioxide emissions; 

 40 tpy of nitrogen oxide emissions unless demonstrated not to be a PM2.5 precursor under paragraph 

13 of this section 

Sulfur dioxide: 40 tpy 

Ozone: 40 tpy of volatile organic compounds or oxides of nitrogen 

Lead: 0.6 tpy 

(15) “Significant emissions increase” means, for a regulated NSR pollutant, an increase in emissions 

that is significant (as defined in paragraph (c)(14)) for that pollutant. 

(16) “Volatile organic compounds (VOC)” is as defined in Regulation 61-62.1, Section I, 

Definitions. 

(d) Permitting requirements 

(1) Conditions for approval. If the Department finds that the major stationary source or major 

modification would be constructed in an area designated in 40 CFR 81.341 as nonattainment for a 

pollutant for which the stationary source or modification is major, approval may be granted only if the 

following conditions are met: 

 (A) The major stationary source or major modification is required to meet an emission limitation 

which specifies the lowest achievable emission rate (LAER) for such source. 

 (B) The applicant must certify that all existing major sources owned or operated by the applicant (or 

any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the applicant) in the same State as the 

proposed source are in compliance with all applicable emission limitations and standards under the Clean 

Air Act (or are in compliance with an expeditious schedule which is Federally enforceable or contained in 

a court decree). 

 (C) The owner or operator of the proposed new major stationary source or major modification will 

obtain sufficient emission reductions of the nonattainment pollutant from other sources. Emission 

reductions shall be in effect and enforceable prior to the date the new source or modification commences 

operation. The emission reductions shall be obtained in accordance with the following provisions: 

 

 (i) Where the permitted emissions limit allows greater emissions than the potential to emit of the 

source, emissions offset credit will be allowed only for control below this potential; 

 (ii) For an existing fuel combustion source, credit shall be based on the allowable emissions for 

the type of fuel being burned at the time the application to construct is filed. If the existing source 

commits to switch to a cleaner fuel at some future date, emissions offset credit based on the allowable (or 

actual) emissions for the fuels involved is not acceptable, unless the permit is conditioned to require the 

use of a specified alternative control measure which would achieve the same degree of emissions 

reduction should the source switch back to a dirtier fuel at some later date. 

 (iii)(a) Emissions reductions achieved by shutting down an existing source or curtailing 
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production or operating hours below baseline levels may be generally credited if such reductions are 

permanent, quantifiable, federally enforceable, occurred on or after the date of the most recent emissions 

inventory, and if the area has an EPA-approved attainment plan. 

 

 (b) Such reductions may be credited if the shutdown or curtailment occurred on or after the date 

the new source permit application is filed, or, if the applicant can establish that the proposed new source 

is a replacement for the shutdown or curtailed source, and the cutoff date provision of paragraph 

(d)(C)(iii)(a) are observed. 

 (iv) No emissions credit may be allowed for replacing one hydrocarbon compound with another of 

lesser reactivity, except for those compounds listed in Table 1 of EPA's "Recommended Policy on 

Control of Volatile Organic Compounds" (42 FR 35314, July 8, 1977); 

 (v) All emission reductions claimed as offset credit shall be federally enforceable and surplus; 

 (a) Eligibility as Emission Offsets. Any facility that has the potential to emit any NAAQS 

pollutant in an amount greater than 5 tons per year and that is located in a federally-designated 

nonattainment area shall be eligible to create emission offsets. 

 

 (1) To be eligible to be an emission offset: 

 (A) A reduction in emissions shall be real, permanent, quantifiable, enforceable, and 

surplus and must have occurred after December 31 of the base year inventory for those pollutants that are 

designated nonattainment by the EPA. The base year inventory date is two years preceding the date of 

nonattainment designation. However, the Department may choose to consider a prior shutdown or 

curtailment to have occurred after the last day of the base year if the projected emissions inventory used 

to develop the attainment demonstration explicitly includes the emissions from such previously shutdown 

or curtailed emission units. 

 (B) Emission reductions shall have been created by a facility that has obtained an 

enforceable air quality permit or letter of permit cancellation resulting from the surrender of the source’s 

permit(s). 

 

 (2) Emission reductions may be created by any or a combination of the following methods: 

 (A) Installation of control equipment beyond what is necessary to comply with existing 

requirements; 

 (B) A change in process inputs, formulations, products or product mix, fuels, or raw 

materials; 

 (C) A reduction in actual emission rates; 

 (D) A reduction in hours of operation; 

 (E) Production curtailment or reduction in throughput; 

 (F) Shutdown of emitting sources; or 

 

 (G) Any other enforceable method that the Department determines to result in real, 

permanent, quantifiable, enforceable, and surplus reduction of emissions. 
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 (3) A completed emissions offset submittal must be received by the Department within one 

year of the date of the creation of the reductions. Emission offsets not requested within one year of the 

date of the creation of the reductions will be permanently retired. Prior to commencing operation of a 

permitted emissions unit, Department approval for the required emission offsets must be granted. 

 (4) The following are ineligible for emission offsets: 

 (A) Emission reductions that are not considered surplus, such as: 

 (i) Emission reductions that have previously been used to avoid Regulation 61-62.5 

Standard No. 7, Prevention of Significant Deterioration, or Regulation 61-62.5 Standard No. 7.1, 

Nonattainment New Source Review (NSR), through a netting demonstration; 

 (ii) Emission reductions of hazardous air pollutants, listed in Section 112(b) of the Clean 

Air Act, to the extent needed to comply with Regulation 61-62.61, National Emission Standards for 

Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), and Regulation 61-62.63, National Emission Standards for 

Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Source Categories, (however, emission reductions of hazardous 

volatile organic compound (VOC) and/or hazardous particulate matter (PM) air pollutants beyond the 

amount of reductions necessary to comply with Regulation 61-62.61, NESHAP, and Regulation 61-62.63, 

NESHAP for Source Categories, are considered surplus); 

 (iii) Emission reductions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulate 

matter (PM) and VOCs to the extent needed to comply with Section 111 of the CAA and Regulation 61-

62.60, South Carolina Designated Facility Plan and New Source Performance Standards (NSPS), 

(however, emission reductions of VOCs, NOx, SO2, PM and VOCs beyond the amount of reductions 

necessary to comply with Regulation 61-62.60, South Carolina Designated Facility Plan and NSPS, are 

considered surplus); 

 (iv) Emission units covered under an agreement, order or variance for exceeding an 

emission standard until compliance is demonstrated with the emission standard that is the subject of the 

agreement, order or variance; 

 (v) Sources that have operated less than 12 months; 

 (vi) Emission reductions required in order to comply with any State or Federal 

regulation not listed above, unless these reductions are in excess of the amount required by the State or 

Federal regulation; or 

 (vii) Facilities that have received a Department transmittal letter notifying of permit 

cancellation due to the facility’s decision to close out its operating permit without a request to qualify 

facility emission reductions as offsets. 

 (b) Calculation of Emission Offsets

 (1) The following procedure shall be followed to calculate emission offsets: 

 

 (A) The source shall calculate average annual actual emissions, in tons per year (tpy), 

before the emission reduction using data from the 24-month period immediately preceding the reduction 

in emissions. With the Department’s approval, the use of a different time period, not to exceed 10 years 

immediately preceding the reduction in emissions, may be allowed if the owner or operator of the source 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

documents that such period is more representative of normal source operation, but not prior to the base 

year inventory date, which is the last day of the two years preceding the date of nonattainment 

designation; and 

 (B) The emission offsets created shall be calculated by subtracting the allowable emissions 

following the reduction from the average annual actual emissions prior to the reduction. 

 (2) For any emissions unit that has been operating for a consecutive period of at least 12 

months but less than 24 months on the base year inventory date, based on the unit’s potential to emit, 

emissions shall be calculated equal to the amount needed to complete a 24 month period on the base year 

inventory date. 

 (vi) Location of offsetting emissions. Emission offsets shall be obtained from sources currently 

operating within the same designated nonattainment area as the new or modified stationary source. 

Emission offsets may be obtained from another nonattainment area with the Department’s approval only 

if (a) the other area has an equal or higher nonattainment classification than the area in which the 

proposed source is located and (b) emissions from the other area contribute to a violation of the NAAQS 

in the nonattainment area in which the source is located. 

 (vii) Emission offsetting ratios. Emission offsets shall be required in nonattainment areas in 

accordance with the following provisions: 

 (a) Emissions for carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), lead 

(Pb), and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) nonattainment areas shall be offset at a ratio greater than 

one to one. 

 (b) Emissions for ozone nonattainment areas shall be offset for volatile organic compounds 

(VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in accordance with the following table: 

Designation Offset ratios 

Subpart I >1 to 1 

Marginal 1.1 to 1 

Moderate 1.15 to 1 

Serious 1.2 to 1 

Severe 1.3 to 1 

Extreme 1.5 to 1 

 (viii) Credit for an emissions reduction can be claimed to the extent that the Department has not 

relied on it in issuing any permit under regulations approved pursuant to 40 CFR part 51 subpart I or the 

Department has not relied on it in demonstrating attainment or reasonable further progress. 

 (ix) [Reserved] 

 (x) [Reserved] 

 (xi) The total tonnage of increased emissions, in tons per year, resulting from a major modification 

that must be offset in accordance with section 173 of the Clean Air Act shall be determined by summing 

the difference between the allowable emissions after the modification (as defined by paragraph (b)(3) of 

Standard 7) and the actual emissions before the modification (as defined in paragraph (c)(1)) for each 

emissions unit. 
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 (D) The emission offsets must provide a positive net air quality benefit in the affected area as 

determined by 40 CFR 51, Appendix S, Emission Offset Interpretative Ruling. 

 (E) Alternative Sites Analysis. An analysis of alternative sites, sizes, production processes, and 

environmental control techniques for such proposed source demonstrates that benefits of the proposed 

source significantly outweigh the environmental and social costs imposed as a result of its location, 

construction, or modification shall be required. 

(2) (A) Any owner or operator who constructs or operates a source or modification not in accordance 

with the application submitted pursuant to this section or with the terms of any approval to construct, or 

any owner or operator of a source or modification subject to this section who commences construction 

after the effective date of these regulations without applying for and receiving approval hereunder, shall 

be subject to appropriate enforcement action. 

 (B) Approval to construct shall become invalid if construction is not commenced within 18 months 

after receipt of such approval, if construction is discontinued for a period of 18 months or more, or if 

construction is not completed within a reasonable time. The Department may extend the 18-month period 

upon a satisfactory showing that an extension is justified. This provision does not apply to the time period 

between construction of the approved phases of a phased construction project; each phase must 

commence construction within 18 months of the projected and approved commencement date. 

 (C) Approval to construct shall not relieve any owner or operator of the responsibility to comply 

fully with applicable provisions of the plan and any other requirements under local, State or Federal law. 

 (D) At such time that a particular source or modification becomes a major stationary source or major 

modification solely by virtue of a relaxation in any enforcement limitation which was established after 

August 7, 1980, on the capacity of the source or modification otherwise to emit a pollutant, such as a 

restriction on hours of operation, then the requirements of regulations approved pursuant to this section 

shall apply to the source or modification as though construction had not yet commenced on the source or 

modification; 

 (3) The following provisions apply to projects at existing emissions units at a major stationary source 

(other than projects at a source with a PAL) in circumstances where there is a reasonable possibility that a 

project that is not a part of a major modification may result in a significant emissions increase and the 

owner or operator elects to use the method specified in paragraphs (c)(11)(B)(i) through (iii) for 

calculating projected actual emissions. 

 (A) If the project requires construction permitting under Regulation 61-62.1, Section II “Permit 

Requirements,” the owner or operator shall provide a copy of the information set out in paragraph 

(d)(3)(B) as part of the permit application to the Department. If construction permitting under Regulation 

61-62.1, Section II “Permit Requirements” is not required, the owner or operator shall maintain the 

information set out in paragraph (d)(3). 

 

 (B) Before beginning actual construction of the project, the owner or operator shall document and 

maintain a record of the following information: 

 (i) A description of the project; 

 (ii) Identification of the emissions unit(s) whose emissions of a regulated NSR pollutant could be 

affected by the project; and 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (iii) A description of the applicability test used to determine that the project is not a major 

modification for any regulated NSR pollutant, including the baseline actual emissions, the projected 

actual emissions, the amount of emissions excluded under paragraph (c)(11)(B)(iii) and an explanation for 

why such amount was excluded, and any netting calculations, if applicable. 

 (C) The owner or operator shall monitor the emissions of any regulated NSR pollutant that could 

increase as a result of the project and that is emitted by any emissions units identified in paragraph 

(d)(3)(B)(ii); and calculate and maintain a record of the annual emissions, in tons per year on a calendar 

year basis, for a period of 5 years following resumption of regular operations after the change, or for a 

period of 10 years following resumption of regular operations after the change if the project increases the 

design capacity or potential to emit of that regulated NSR pollutant at such emissions unit. 

 (D) If the unit is an existing electric utility steam generating unit, the owner or operator shall submit 

a report to the Department within 60 days after the end of each year during which records must be 

generated under paragraph (d)(3)(B) setting out the unit's annual emissions during the year that preceded 

submission of the report. 

 (E) If the unit is an existing unit other than an electric utility steam generating unit, the owner or 

operator shall submit a report to the Department if the annual emissions, in tons per year, from the project 

identified in paragraph (d)(3)(B), exceed the baseline actual emissions (as documented and maintained 

pursuant to paragraph (d)(3)(B)(iii)), by a significant amount (as defined in paragraph (c)(14)) for that 

regulated NSR pollutant, and if such emissions differ from the preconstruction projection as documented 

and maintained pursuant to paragraph (d)(3)(B)(iii). Such report shall be submitted to the Department 

within 60 days after the end of such year. The report shall contain the following: 

 (i) The name, address and telephone number of the major stationary source; 

 (ii) The annual emissions as calculated pursuant to paragraph (d)(3)(C); and 

 (iii) Any other information needed for to make a compliance determination (e.g., an explanation as 

to why the emissions differ from the preconstruction projection). 

 (4) If a project at a source with a PAL requires construction permitting under Regulation 61-62.1, 

Section II, “Permit Requirements,” the owner or operator shall provide notification of source status as 

part of the permit application to the Department. 

(5) The owner or operator of the source shall make the information required to be documented and 

maintained pursuant to paragraph (d)(3) for review upon a request for inspection by the Department or the 

general public pursuant to the requirements contained in 40 CFR 70.4(b)(3)(viii). 

 (6) Public Participation. Within 30 days after receipt of an application to construct, or any addition to 

such application, the Department shall advise the applicant of any deficiency in the application or in the 

information submitted and transmit a copy of such application to EPA. In the event of such a deficiency, 

the date of receipt of the application shall be, for the purpose of this regulation, the date on which the 

Department received all required information. 

 (7) In accordance with Regulation 61-30, Environmental Protection Fees, the Department shall make a 

final determination on the application. This involves performing the following actions in a timely manner: 

 (i) For the purposes of this paragraph (d)(7), the time frame for making a final determination shall be 
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consistent with R. 61-30, Environmental Protection Fees, paragraph (H)(2)(c)(iii). 

 (ii) Make a preliminary determination whether construction should be approved, approved with 

conditions, or disapproved. 

 (iii) Make available in at least one location in each region in which the proposed plant or 

modification would be constructed a copy of all materials the applicant submitted, a copy of the 

preliminary determination and a copy or summary of other materials, if any, considered in making the 

preliminary determination. 

 (iv) Notify the public, by advertisement in a newspaper of general circulation in each region in which 

the proposed plant or modification would be constructed, of the application, the preliminary 

determination, the degree of increment consumption that is expected from the plant or modification, and 

the opportunity for comment at a public hearing as well as written public comment. 

 (v) Send a copy of the notice of public comment to the applicant, the Administrator of EPA, and to 

officials and agencies having cognizance over the location where the proposed construction would occur 

as follows: The chief executives of the city and county where the plant or modification would be located, 

any comprehensive regional land use planning agency and any State, Federal Land Manager, or Indian 

Governing Body whose lands may be affected by emissions from the plant or modification. 

 (vi) Provide opportunity for a public hearing for interested persons to appear and submit written or 

oral comments on the air quality impact of the plant or modification, alternatives to the plant or 

modification, the control technology required, and other appropriate considerations. 

 (vii) Consider all written comments submitted within a time specified in the notice of public 

comment and all comments received at any public hearing(s) in making a final decision on the 

approvability of the application. No later than 10 days after the close of the public comment period, the 

applicant may submit a written response to any comments submitted by the public. The Department shall 

consider the applicant’s response in making a final decision. The Department shall make all comments 

available for public inspection in the same locations where the Department made available 

preconstruction information relating to the proposed plant or modification. 

 (viii) Make a final determination whether construction should be approved, approved with 

conditions, or disapproved pursuant to this section. 

 (ix) Notify the applicant in writing of the final determination and make such notification available 

for public inspection at the same location where the Department made available preconstruction 

information and public comments relating to the plant or modification. 

 (x) Notify EPA of every action related to the consideration of the permit. 

(e) Exemptions. The provisions of paragraph (d) shall not apply to a particular major stationary source or 

major modification if the source or modification would be a major stationary source or major 

modification only if fugitive emissions, to the extent quantifiable, are considered in calculating the 

potential to emit of the stationary source or modification and the source does not belong to any of the 

following categories: 

(A) Coal cleaning plants (with thermal dryers); 

 (B) Kraft pulp mills; 
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 (C) Portland cement plants; 

 (D) Primary zinc smelters; 

 (E) Iron and steel mills; 

 (F) Primary aluminum ore reduction plants; 

 (G) Primary copper smelters; 

 (H) Municipal incinerators capable of charging more than 250 tons of refuse per day; 

 (I) Hydrofluoric, sulfuric, or nitric acid plants; 

 (J) Petroleum refineries; 

 (K) Lime plants; 

 (L) Phosphate rock processing plants; 

 (M) Coke oven batteries; 

 (N) Sulfur recovery plants; 

 (O) Carbon black plants (furnace process); 

 (P) Primary lead smelters; 

 (Q) Fuel conversion plants; 

 (R) Sintering plants; 

 (S) Secondary metal production plants; 

 (T) Chemical process plants - The term chemical process plant shall not include ethanol production 

facilities that produce ethanol by natural fermentation included in NAICS codes 325193 or 312140; 

 (U) Fossil-fuel boilers (or combination thereof) totaling more than 250 million British thermal units 

per hour heat input; 

 (V) Petroleum storage and transfer units with a total storage capacity exceeding 300,000 barrels; 

 (W) Taconite ore processing plants; 

 (X) Glass fiber processing plants; 

 (Y) Charcoal production plants; 

 (Z) Fossil fuel-fired steam electric plants of more than 250 million British thermal units per hour 

heat input; and 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (AA) Any other stationary source category which, as of August 7, 1980, is being regulated under 

section 111 or 112 of the Clean Air Act. 

(f) [Reserved]

(g) [Reserved]

(h) [Reserved]

(i) Actuals PALs. The provisions in paragraphs (i)(1) through (15) govern actuals PALs. 

(1) Applicability. 

 (i) The Department may approve the use of an actuals PAL for any existing major stationary source 

(except as provided in paragraph (i)(1)(ii)) if the PAL meets the requirements in paragraphs (i)(1) through 

(15). The term "PAL" shall mean "actuals PAL" throughout paragraph (i). 

 (ii) The Department shall not allow an actuals PAL for VOC or NOx for any major stationary source 

located in an extreme ozone nonattainment area. 

 (iii) Any physical change in or change in the method of operation of a major stationary source that 

maintains its total source-wide emissions below the PAL level, meets the requirements in paragraphs 

(i)(1) through (15), and complies with the PAL permit: 

 (A) Is not a major modification for the PAL pollutant; 

 (B) Does not have to be approved through Regulation 61-62.5, Standard 7.1, “Nonattainment New 

Source Review”; however, will be reviewed through Regulation 61-62.1, Section II A. “Permit 

Requirements,” and 

 (C) Is not subject to the provisions in paragraph (d)(2)(D) (restrictions on relaxing enforceable 

emission limitations that the major stationary source used to avoid applicability of the nonattainment 

major NSR program). 

 (iv) Except as provided under paragraph (i)(1)(iii)(C), a major stationary source shall continue to 

comply with all applicable Federal or State requirements, emission limitations, and work practice 

requirements that were established prior to the effective date of the PAL. 

 (2) Definitions. The definitions in paragraphs (i)(2)(i) through (xi) shall apply to actuals PALs 

consistent with paragraphs (i)(1) through (15). When a term is not defined in these paragraphs, it shall 

have the meaning given in paragraph (c) of this regulation; paragraph (b) of Regulation 61-62.5, Standard 

7, “Prevention of Significant Deterioration”(“Standard 7”); or in the Clean Air Act. 

 (i) Actuals PAL for a major stationary source means a PAL based on the baseline actual emissions 

(as defined in paragraph (c)(1)) of all emissions units (as defined in paragraph (b)(20) of Standard 7) at 

the source, that emit or have the potential to emit the PAL pollutant. 

 (ii) Allowable emissions means "allowable emissions" as defined in paragraph (b)(3) of Standard 7, 

except as this definition is modified according to paragraphs (i)(2)(ii)(A) through (B). 
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 (A) The allowable emissions for any emissions unit shall be calculated considering any emission 

limitations that are enforceable as a practical matter on the emissions unit's potential to emit. 

 (B) An emissions unit's potential to emit shall be determined using the definition in paragraph 

(b)(37) of Standard 7, except that the words "or enforceable as a practical matter" should be added after 

"federally enforceable." 

 (iii) Small emissions unit means an emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit the PAL 

pollutant in an amount less than the significant level for that PAL pollutant, as defined in paragraph 

(c)(14) or in the Clean Air Act, whichever is lower. 

 (iv) Major emissions unit means: 

 (A) Any emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit 100 tons per year or more of the 

PAL pollutant in an attainment area; or 

 (B) Any emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit the PAL pollutant in an amount that 

is equal to or greater than the major source threshold for the PAL pollutant as defined by the Clean Air 

Act for nonattainment areas. For example, in accordance with the definition of major stationary source in 

section 182(c) of the Clean Air Act, an emissions unit would be a major emissions unit for VOC if the 

emissions unit is located in a serious ozone nonattainment area and it emits or has the potential to emit 50 

or more tons of VOC per year. 

 (v) Plantwide applicability limitation (PAL) means an emission limitation expressed in tons per 

year, for a pollutant at a major stationary source, that is enforceable as a practical matter and established 

source-wide in accordance with paragraphs (i)(1) through (i)(15). 

 (vi) PAL effective date generally means the date of issuance of the PAL permit. However, the PAL 

effective date for an increased PAL is the date any emissions unit which is part of the PAL major 

modification becomes operational and begins to emit the PAL pollutant. 

 (vii) PAL effective period means the period beginning with the PAL effective date and ending 10 

years later. 

 (viii) PAL major modification means, notwithstanding paragraphs (c)(6) and (8) (the definitions for 

major modification and net emissions increase), any physical change in or change in the method of 

operation of the PAL source that causes it to emit the PAL pollutant at a level equal to or greater than the 

PAL. 

 (ix) PAL permit means the major NSR permit, the minor NSR permit, or the State operating permit 

under Regulation 61-62.1 Section II G, or the title V permit issued by the Department that establishes a 

PAL for a major stationary source. 

 (x) PAL pollutant means the pollutant for which a PAL is established at a major stationary source. 

 (xi) Significant emissions unit means an emissions unit that emits or has the potential to emit a PAL 

pollutant in an amount that is equal to or greater than the significant level (as defined in paragraph (c)(13) 

or in the Clean Air Act, whichever is lower) for that PAL pollutant, but less than the amount that would 

qualify the unit as a major emissions unit as defined in paragraph (i)(2)(iv). 

(3) Permit application requirements. As part of a permit application requesting a PAL, the owner or 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

operator of a major stationary source shall submit the following information to the Department for 

approval: 

 (i) A list of all emissions units at the source designated as small, significant or major based on their 

potential to emit. In addition, the owner or operator of the source shall indicate which, if any, Federal or 

State applicable requirements, emission limitations or work practices apply to each unit. 

 (ii) Calculations of the baseline actual emissions (with supporting documentation). Baseline actual 

emissions are to include emissions associated not only with operation of the unit, but also emissions 

associated with startup, shutdown and malfunction. 

 (iii) The calculation procedures that the major stationary source owner or operator proposes to use to 

convert the monitoring system data to monthly emissions and annual emissions based on a 12-month 

rolling total for each month as required by paragraph (i)(13)(i). 

(4) General requirements for establishing PALs. 

 (i) The Department is allowed to establish a PAL at a major stationary source, provided that at a 

minimum, the requirements in paragraphs (i)(4)(i)(A) through (G) are met. 

 (A) The PAL shall impose an annual emission limitation in tons per year, that is enforceable as a 

practical matter, for the entire major stationary source. For each month during the PAL effective period 

after the first 12 months of establishing a PAL, the major stationary source owner or operator shall show 

that the sum of the monthly emissions from each emissions unit under the PAL for the previous 12 

consecutive months is less than the PAL (a 12-month average, rolled monthly). For each month during 

the first 11 months from the PAL effective date, the major stationary source owner or operator shall show 

that the sum of the preceding monthly emissions from the PAL effective date for each emissions unit 

under the PAL is less than the PAL. 

 (B) The PAL shall be established in a PAL permit that meets the public participation requirements 

in paragraph (i)(5). 

 (C) The PAL permit shall contain all the requirements of paragraph (i)(7). 

 (D) The PAL shall include fugitive emissions, to the extent quantifiable, from all emissions units 

that emit or have the potential to emit the PAL pollutant at the major stationary source. 

 (E) Each PAL shall regulate emissions of only one pollutant. 

 (F) Each PAL shall have a PAL effective period of 10 years. 

 (G) The owner or operator of the major stationary source with a PAL shall comply with the 

monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements provided in paragraphs (i)(12) through (14) for 

each emissions unit under the PAL through the PAL effective period. 

 (ii) At no time (during or after the PAL effective period) are emissions reductions of a PAL 

pollutant, which occur during the PAL effective period, creditable as decreases for purposes of offsets 

under paragraph (d)(1)(c) unless the level of the PAL is reduced by the amount of such emissions 

reductions and such reductions would be creditable in the absence of the PAL. 
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(5) Public participation requirement for PALs. PALs for existing major stationary sources shall be 

established, renewed, or increased through a procedure that is consistent paragraph (d)(6) and (d)(7). The 

Department must address all material comments before taking final action on the permit. 

(6) Setting the 10-year actuals PAL level. (i) Except as provided in paragraph (i)(6)(ii), the actuals 

PAL level for a major stationary source shall be established as the sum of the baseline actual emissions 

(as defined in paragraph (c)(2)) of the PAL pollutant for each emissions unit at the source; plus an amount 

equal to the applicable significant level for the PAL pollutant under paragraph (c)(14) or under the Clean 

Air Act, whichever is lower. When establishing the actuals PAL level, for a PAL pollutant, only one 

consecutive 24-month period must be used to determine the baseline actual emissions for all existing 

emissions units. However, a different consecutive 24-month period may be used for each different PAL 

pollutant. Emissions associated with units that were permanently shut down after this 24-month period 

must be subtracted from the PAL level. The Department shall specify a reduced PAL level(s) (in tons/yr) 

in the PAL permit to become effective on the future compliance date(s) of any applicable Federal or State 

regulatory requirement(s) that the Department is aware of prior to issuance of the PAL permit. For 

instance, if the source owner or operator will be required to reduce emissions from industrial boilers in 

half from baseline emissions of 60 ppm NOX to a new rule limit of 30 ppm, then the permit shall contain 

a future effective PAL level that is equal to the current PAL level reduced by half of the original baseline 

emissions of such unit(s). 

 (ii) For newly constructed units (which do not include modifications to existing units) on which 

operation began less than 24-months prior to the date of the PAL permit application, the emissions must 

be added to the PAL level in an amount equal to the potential to emit of the units. 

(7) Contents of the PAL permit. The PAL permit must contain, at a minimum, the information in 

paragraphs (i)(7)(i) through (x). 

 (i) The PAL pollutant and the applicable source-wide emission limitation in tons per year. 

 (ii) The PAL permit effective date and the expiration date of the PAL (PAL effective period). 

 (iii) Specification in the PAL permit that if a major stationary source owner or operator applies to 

renew a PAL in accordance with paragraph (i)(10) before the end of the PAL effective period, then the 

PAL shall not expire at the end of the PAL effective period. It shall remain in effect until a revised PAL 

permit is issued by the Department. 

 (iv) A requirement that emission calculations for compliance purposes include emissions from 

startups, shutdowns and malfunctions. 

 (v) A requirement that, once the PAL expires, the major stationary source is subject to the 

requirements of paragraph (i)(9). 

 (vi) The calculation procedures that the major stationary source owner or operator shall use to 

convert the monitoring system data to monthly emissions and annual emissions based on a 12-month 

rolling total for each month as required by paragraph (i)(13)(i). 

 (vii) A requirement that the major stationary source owner or operator monitor all emissions units in 

accordance with the provisions under paragraph (i)(12). 

 (viii) A requirement to retain the records required under paragraph (i)(13) on site. Such records may 
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Clean copy version: R. 61‐62.5, Standard 7.1

Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

be retained in an electronic format. 

 (ix) A requirement to submit the reports required under paragraph (i)(14) by the required deadlines. 

 (x) Any other requirements that the Department deems necessary to implement and enforce the PAL. 

(8) PAL effective period and reopening of the PAL permit. The requirements in paragraphs (i)(8)(i) 

and (ii) apply to actuals PALs. 

 (i) PAL effective period. The Department shall specify a PAL effective period of 10 years. 

 (ii) Reopening of the PAL permit. 

 (A) During the PAL effective period, the Department must reopen the PAL permit to: 

 (1) Correct typographical/calculation errors made in setting the PAL or reflect a more accurate 

determination of emissions used to establish the PAL. 

 (2) Reduce the PAL if the owner or operator of the major stationary source creates creditable 

emissions reductions for use as offsets under paragraph (d)(2). 

 (3) Revise the PAL to reflect an increase in the PAL as provided under paragraph (i)(11). 

 (B) The Department shall have discretion to reopen the PAL permit for the following: 

 (1) Reduce the PAL to reflect newly applicable Federal requirements (for example, NSPS) with 

compliance dates after the PAL effective date. 

 (2) Reduce the PAL consistent with any other requirement, that is enforceable as a practical 

matter, and that the Department may impose on the major stationary source under the State 

Implementation Plan. 

 (3) Reduce the PAL if the Department determines that a reduction is necessary to avoid causing 

or contributing to a NAAQS or PSD increment violation, or to an adverse impact on an air quality related 

value that has been identified for a Federal Class I area by a Federal Land Manager and for which 

information is available to the general public. 

 (C) Except for the permit reopening in paragraph (i)(8)(ii)(A)(1) for the correction of 

typographical/calculation errors that do not increase the PAL level, all other reopenings shall be carried 

out in accordance with the public participation requirements of paragraph (i)(5). 

(9) Expiration of a PAL. Any PAL which is not renewed in accordance with the procedures in 

paragraph (i)(10) shall expire at the end of the PAL effective period, and the requirements in paragraphs 

(i)(9)(i) through (v) shall apply. 

 (i) Each emissions unit (or each group of emissions units) that existed under the PAL shall comply 

with an allowable emission limitation under a revised permit established according to the procedures in 

paragraphs (i)(9)(i)(A) through (B). 

 (A) Within the time frame specified for PAL renewals in paragraph (i)(10)(ii), the major stationary 

source shall submit a proposed allowable emission limitation for each emissions unit (or each group of 
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emissions units, if such a distribution is more appropriate as decided by the Department) by distributing 

the PAL allowable emissions for the major stationary source among each of the emissions units that 

existed under the PAL. If the PAL had not yet been adjusted for an applicable requirement that became 

effective during the PAL effective period, as required under paragraph (i)(10)(v), such distribution shall 

be made as if the PAL had been adjusted. 

 (B) The Department shall decide whether and how the PAL allowable emissions will be 

distributed and issue a revised permit incorporating allowable limits for each emissions unit, or each 

group of emissions units, as the Department determines is appropriate. 

 (ii) Each emissions unit(s) shall comply with the allowable emission limitation on a 12-month rolling 

basis. The Department may approve the use of monitoring systems (source testing, emission factors, etc.) 

other than CEMS, CERMS, PEMS or CPMS to demonstrate compliance with the allowable emission 

limitation. 

 (iii) Until the Department issues the revised permit incorporating allowable limits for each emissions 

unit, or each group of emissions units, as required under paragraph (i)(9)(i)(A), the source shall continue 

to comply with a source-wide, multi-unit emissions cap equivalent to the level of the PAL emission 

limitation. 

 (iv) Any physical change or change in the method of operation at the major stationary source will be 

subject to the nonattainment major NSR requirements if such change meets the definition of major 

modification in paragraph (c)(6). 

 (v) The major stationary source owner or operator shall continue to comply with any State or Federal 

applicable requirements (BACT, RACT, NSPS, etc.) that may have applied either during the PAL 

effective period or prior to the PAL effective period except for those emission limitations that had been 

established pursuant to paragraph (d)(2)(D), but were eliminated by the PAL in accordance with the 

provisions in paragraph (i)(1)(iii)(C). 

(10) Renewal of a PAL. 

 (i) The Department shall follow the procedures specified in paragraph (i)(5) in approving any request 

to renew a PAL for a major stationary source, and shall provide both the proposed PAL level and a 

written rationale for the proposed PAL level to the public for review and comment. During such public 

review, any person may propose a PAL level for the source for consideration by the Department. 

 (ii) Application deadline. A major stationary source owner or operator shall submit a timely 

application to the Department to request renewal of a PAL. A timely application is one that is submitted 

at least 6 months prior to, but not earlier than 18 months from, the date of permit expiration. This deadline 

for application submittal is to ensure that the permit will not expire before the permit is renewed. If the 

owner or operator of a major stationary source submits a complete application to renew the PAL within 

this time period, then the PAL shall continue to be effective until the revised permit with the renewed 

PAL is issued. 

 (iii) Application requirements. The application to renew a PAL permit shall contain the 

information required in paragraphs (i)(10)(iii)(A) through (D). 

 (A) The information required in paragraphs (i)(3)(i) through (iii). 

 (B) A proposed PAL level. 
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 (C) The sum of the potential to emit of all emissions units under the PAL (with supporting 

documentation). 

 (D) Any other information the owner or operator wishes the Department to consider in 

determining the appropriate level for renewing the PAL. 

 (iv) PAL adjustment. In determining whether and how to adjust the PAL, the Department shall 

consider the options outlined in paragraphs (i)(10)(iv)(A) and (B). However, in no case may any such 

adjustment fail to comply with paragraph (i)(10)(iv)(C). 

 (A) If the emissions level calculated in accordance with paragraph (i)(6) is equal to or greater than 

80 percent of the PAL level, the Department may renew the PAL at the same level without considering 

the factors set forth in paragraph (i)(10)(iv)(B); or 

 (B) The Department may set the PAL at a level that it determines to be more representative of the 

source's baseline actual emissions, or that it determines to be appropriate considering air quality needs, 

advances in control technology, anticipated economic growth in the area, desire to reward or encourage 

the source's voluntary emissions reductions, or other factors as specifically identified by the Department 

in its written rationale. 

 (C) Notwithstanding paragraphs (i)(10)(iv)(A) and (B), 

 (1) If the potential to emit of the major stationary source is less than the PAL, the Department 

shall adjust the PAL to a level no greater than the potential to emit of the source; and 

 (2) The Department shall not approve a renewed PAL level higher than the current PAL, unless 

the major stationary source has complied with the provisions of paragraph (i)(11) (increasing a PAL). 

 (v) If the compliance date for a State or Federal requirement that applies to the PAL source occurs 

during the PAL effective period, and if the Department has not already adjusted for such requirement, the 

PAL shall be adjusted at the time of PAL permit renewal or title V permit renewal, whichever occurs first. 

(11) Increasing a PAL during the PAL effective period.

 (i) The Department may increase a PAL emission limitation only if the major stationary source 

complies with the provisions in paragraphs (i)(11)(i)(A) through (D). 

 (A) The owner or operator of the major stationary source shall submit a complete application to 

request an increase in the PAL limit for a PAL major modification. Such application shall identify the 

emissions unit(s) contributing to the increase in emissions so as to cause the major stationary source's 

emissions to equal or exceed its PAL. 

 (B) As part of this application, the major stationary source owner or operator shall demonstrate 

that the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the small emissions units, plus the sum of the baseline 

actual emissions of the significant and major emissions units assuming application of BACT equivalent 

controls, plus the sum of the allowable emissions of the new or modified emissions unit(s) exceeds the 

PAL. The level of control that would result from BACT equivalent controls on each significant or major 

emissions unit shall be determined by conducting a new BACT analysis at the time the application is 

submitted, unless the emissions unit is currently required to comply with a BACT or LAER requirement 

that was established within the preceding 10 years. In such a case, the assumed control level for that 
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Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

emissions unit shall be equal to the level of BACT or LAER with which that emissions unit must 

currently comply. 

 (C) The owner or operator obtains a major NSR permit for all emissions unit(s) identified in 

paragraph (i)(11)(i)(A), regardless of the magnitude of the emissions increase resulting from them (that is, 

no significant levels apply). These emissions unit(s) shall comply with any emissions requirements 

resulting from the nonattainment major NSR program process (for example, LAER), even though they 

have also become subject to the PAL or continue to be subject to the PAL. 

 (D) The PAL permit shall require that the increased PAL level shall be effective on the day any 

emissions unit that is part of the PAL major modification becomes operational and begins to emit the 

PAL pollutant. 

 (ii) The Department shall calculate the new PAL as the sum of the allowable emissions for each 

modified or new emissions unit, plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the significant and major 

emissions units (assuming application of BACT equivalent controls as determined in accordance with 

paragraph (i)(11)(i)(B)), plus the sum of the baseline actual emissions of the small emissions units. 

 (iii) The PAL permit shall be revised to reflect the increased PAL level pursuant to the public notice 

requirements of paragraph (i)(5). 

(12) Monitoring requirements for PALs. 

 (i) General Requirements. 

 (A) Each PAL permit must contain enforceable requirements for the monitoring system that 

accurately determines plantwide emissions of the PAL pollutant in terms of mass per unit of time. Any 

monitoring system authorized for use in the PAL permit must be based on sound science and meet 

generally acceptable scientific procedures for data quality and manipulation. Additionally, the 

information generated by such system must meet minimum legal requirements for admissibility in a 

judicial proceeding to enforce the PAL permit. 

 (B) The PAL monitoring system must employ one or more of the four general monitoring 

approaches meeting the minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs (i)(12)(ii)(A) through (D) and 

must be approved by the Department. 

 (C) Notwithstanding paragraph (i)(12)(i)(B), you may also employ an alternative monitoring 

approach that meets paragraph (i)(12)(i)(A) if approved by the Department. 

 (D) Failure to use a monitoring system that meets the requirements of this regulation renders the 

PAL invalid. 

 (ii) Minimum Performance Requirements for Approved Monitoring Approaches. The following are 

acceptable general monitoring approaches when conducted in accordance with the minimum requirements 

in paragraphs (i)(12)(iii) through (ix): 

 (A) Mass balance calculations for activities using coatings or solvents; 

 (B) Continuous emissions monitoring system (CEMS); 

 (C) Continuous parameter monitoring system (CPMS) or Predictive emissions monitoring system 
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(PEMS); and 

 (D) Emission Factors. 

 (iii) Mass Balance Calculations. An owner or operator using mass balance calculations to monitor 

PAL pollutant emissions from activities using coating or solvents shall meet the following requirements: 

 (A) Provide a demonstrated means of validating the published content of the PAL pollutant that is 

contained in or created by all materials used in or at the emissions unit; 

 (B) Assume that the emissions unit emits all of the PAL pollutant that is contained in or created by 

any raw material or fuel used in or at the emissions unit, if it cannot otherwise be accounted for in the 

process; and 

 (C) Where the vendor of a material or fuel, which is used in or at the emissions unit, publishes a 

range of pollutant content from such material, the owner or operator must use the highest value of the 

range to calculate the PAL pollutant emissions unless the Department determines there is site-specific 

data or a site-specific monitoring program to support another content within the range. 

 (iv) CEMS. An owner or operator using CEMS to monitor PAL pollutant emissions shall meet the 

following requirements: 

 (A) CEMS must comply with applicable Performance Specifications found in 40 CFR part 60, 

appendix B; and 

 (B) CEMS must sample, analyze and record data at least every 15 minutes while the emissions 

unit is operating. 

 (v) CPMS or PEMS. An owner or operator using CPMS or PEMS to monitor PAL pollutant 

emissions shall meet the following requirements: 

 (A) The CPMS or the PEMS must be based on current site-specific data demonstrating a 

correlation between the monitored parameter(s) and the PAL pollutant emissions across the range of 

operation of the emissions unit; and 

 (B) Each CPMS or PEMS must sample, analyze, and record data at least every 15 minutes, or at 

another less frequent interval approved by the Department, while the emissions unit is operating. 

 (vi) Emission factors. An owner or operator using emission factors to monitor PAL pollutant 

emissions shall meet the following requirements: 

 (A) All emission factors shall be adjusted, if appropriate, to account for the degree of uncertainty 

or limitations in the factors' development; 

 (B) The emissions unit shall operate within the designated range of use for the emission factor, if 

applicable; and 

 (C) If technically practicable, the owner or operator of a significant emissions unit that relies on an 

emission factor to calculate PAL pollutant emissions shall conduct validation testing to determine a sitespecific emission factor within 6 months of PAL permit issuance, unless the Department determines that 

testing is not required. 
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 (vii) A source owner or operator must record and report maximum potential emissions without 

considering enforceable emission limitations or operational restrictions for an emissions unit during any 

period of time that there is no monitoring data, unless another method for determining emissions during 

such periods is specified in the PAL permit. 

 (viii) Notwithstanding the requirements in paragraphs (i)(12)(iii) through (vii), where an owner or 

operator of an emissions unit cannot demonstrate a correlation between the monitored parameter(s) and 

the PAL pollutant emissions rate at all operating points of the emissions unit, the Department shall, at the 

time of permit issuance: 

 (A) Establish default value(s) for determining compliance with the PAL based on the highest 

potential emissions reasonably estimated at such operating point(s); or 

 (B) Determine that operation of the emissions unit during operating conditions when there is no 

correlation between monitored parameter(s) and the PAL pollutant emissions is a violation of the PAL. 

 (ix) Re-validation. All data used to establish the PAL pollutant must be re-validated through 

performance testing or other scientifically valid means approved by the Department. Such testing must 

occur at least once every 5 years after issuance of the PAL. 

(13) Recordkeeping requirements. 

 (i) The PAL permit shall require an owner or operator to retain a copy of all records necessary to 

determine compliance with any requirement of paragraph (i) and of the PAL, including a determination of 

each emissions unit's 12-month rolling total emissions, for 5 years from the date of such record. 

 (ii) The PAL permit shall require an owner or operator to retain a copy of the following records for 

the duration of the PAL effective period plus 5 years: 

 (A) A copy of the PAL permit application and any applications for revisions to the PAL; and 

 (B) Each annual certification of compliance pursuant to title V and the data relied on in certifying 

the compliance. 

(14) Reporting and notification requirements. The owner or operator shall submit semi-annual 

monitoring reports and prompt deviation reports to the Department in accordance with the applicable title 

V operating permit program. The reports shall meet the requirements in paragraphs (i)(14)(i) through (iii). 

 (i) Semi-Annual Report. The semi-annual report shall be submitted to the Department within 30 days 

of the end of each reporting period. This report shall contain the information required in paragraphs 

(i)(14)(i)(A) through (G). 

 (A) The identification of owner and operator and the permit number. 

 (B) Total annual emissions (tons/year) based on a 12-month rolling total for each month in the 

reporting period recorded pursuant to paragraph (i)(13)(i). 

 (C) All data relied upon, including, but not limited to, any Quality Assurance or Quality Control 

data, in calculating the monthly and annual PAL pollutant emissions. 
S.C. DHEC NSR Revisions Parallel Processing Request, December 2, 2010                                                            Page   28  

Clean copy version: R. 61‐62.5, Standard 7.1

Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

 (D) A list of any emissions units modified or added to the major stationary source during the 

preceding 6-month period. 

 (E) The number, duration, and cause of any deviations or monitoring malfunctions (other than the 

time associated with zero and span calibration checks), and any corrective action taken. 

 (F) A notification of a shutdown of any monitoring system, whether the shutdown was permanent 

or temporary, the reason for the shutdown, the anticipated date that the monitoring system will be fully 

operational or replaced with another monitoring system, and whether the emissions unit monitored by the 

monitoring system continued to operate, and the calculation of the emissions of the pollutant or the 

number determined by method included in the permit, as provided by paragraph (i)(12)(vii). 

 (G) A signed statement by the responsible official (as defined by Regulation 61-62.70, Title V 

Operating Permit Program) certifying the truth, accuracy, and completeness of the information provided 

in the report. 

 (ii) Deviation report. The major stationary source owner or operator shall promptly submit reports of 

any deviations or exceedance of the PAL requirements, including periods where no monitoring is 

available. A report submitted pursuant to 40 CFR 70.6(a)(3)(iii)(B) shall satisfy this reporting 

requirement. The deviation reports shall be submitted within the time limits prescribed by the applicable 

program implementing 40 CFR 70.6(a)(3)(iii)(B). The reports shall contain the following information: 

 (A) The identification of owner and operator and the permit number; 

 (B) The PAL requirement that experienced the deviation or that was exceeded; 

 (C) Emissions resulting from the deviation or the exceedance; and 

 (D) A signed statement by the responsible official (as defined by the applicable title V operating 

permit program) certifying the truth, accuracy, and completeness of the information provided in the 

report. 

 (iii) Re-validation results. The owner or operator shall submit to the Department the results of any revalidation test or method within 3 months after completion of such test or method. 

(15) Transition requirements. 

 (i) The Department may not issue a PAL that does not comply with the requirements in paragraphs 

(aa)(1) through (15) after the date these provisions become effective. 

 (ii) The Department may supersede any PAL which was established prior to the date of approval of 

the plan by the Administrator with a PAL that complies with the requirements of paragraphs (i)(1) 

through (15). 

(j) If any provision of this regulation, or the application of such provision to any person or circumstance, 

is held invalid, the remainder of this regulation, or the application of such provision to persons or 

circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid, shall not be affected thereby. 
S.C. DHEC NSR Revisions Parallel Processing Request, December 2, 2010                                                            Page   29  

Clean copy version: R. 61‐62.5, Standard 7.1

Proposed effective date: February 25, 2011                            

R. 61-62.5, Standard No. 7 History - South Carolina State Register: 

 Vol. 29, Issue No. 6. (Doc. No. 2943), June 24, 2005; 

 Vol. 33, Issue No. 4, (Doc. No. 4056), April 24, 2009.