The permit lists the covered facilities, identifies the applicable air pollution control standards, establishes how the facility will comply with those standards, and contains provisions for monitoring, record keeping, and reporting that are adequate to demonstrate compliance on an ongoing basis. Air Quality Impact IDEM uses computer simulations to predict the impact the proposed plants will have on air quality. The IDEM has used similar methodology to address pollutants that do not have established health-based standards. In the cases reviewed to date, none of these plants would impact air quality to an extent that would be considered a significant health risk. The OAQ inspects new plants soon after start up to ensure that they are in compliance with their air permit.
Air permits for utility projects require continuous emissions monitoring of critical pollutants.
IDEM staff are present when these systems are tested to make sure they meet state and federal performance standards. IDEM receives quarterly reports of the continuous monitoring data, fuel usage, and other compliance-related information required by the permit. IDEM has the authority to level civil penalties for violations of the permit, including fines and if necessary revocation of the permit.