How does EPA keep track of acid gas emissions?
Utilities are required to install very accurate continuous emissions monitoring systems to record acid gas emissions every hour the plant is operating. These systems produce an annual report of SO2 and NOx emissions. Each report is sent electronically to EPA, where allowances and emissions are compared. Utilities that emit SO2 and NOx in excess of their allowances must pay $2,000 for each ton of excess emissions. When a company emits less than its limit, it may trade or sell the difference to another company to use.
Utilities are required to install very accurate continuous emissions monitoring systems to record acid gas emissions every hour the plant is operating. These systems produce an annual report of SO2 and NOx emissions. Each report is sent electronically to EPA, where allowances and emissions are compared. Utilities that emit SO2 or NOx in excess of their allowances must pay a specific fine for each ton of excess emissions. When a company emits less than its limit, it may trade or sell the difference to another company to use.
