Discretionary burning of fuel oil is not allowed. OSP had asked DEM to utilize a less stringent section of EPA regulations, instead of DEM's air pollution control regulations, to approve its application. Approving OSP's application under these standards would have resulted in a lower level of emissions control. In addition, approval of OSP's application would not have resulted in required offsets of emissions. These emission offsets must compensate for the emissions increases and provide a net air quality benefit.
Nitrogen oxides are precursors to ground level ozone.
High ozone concentrations can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, headache and fatigue. It is DEM's practice to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions to the greatest extent practical. The Department, through its actions and policies, has been sending a clear and consistent message to the general public and the regulated community that emissions of nitrogen oxide will be reduced and minimized to the maximum extent practical from existing, new, and modified sources. Allowing an increase in nitrogen oxide emissions above and beyond what would ordinarily be allowed under DEM's rules is inconsistent with other recent actions of the Department, aimed at improving air quality. DEM received public comment from the Town of North Smithfield and several individuals concerning OSP's permit request.