To meet new Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) compliance guidelines by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, we will in the spring convert our coal boiler plant to natural gas. The conversion will be to what is called a Low Nitrogen Oxide burner capable of a maximum output of 300 horsepower.
The technical benefits are:
- Elimination of particulate matter control devices (e.g., fabric filter, ESP, multi-clones, etc.).
- Elimination of SO2 control devices (e.g., dry or wet flue gas desulfurization).
- Elimination of disposal costs associated with coal combustion residue (CCR).
- Elimination of coal storage, handling, and preparation equipment.
- Significantly reduced maintenance costs.
In addition to meeting new guidelines, the upgrade will move us closer to a longer term goal of having individual heating systems in each building, which will allow more efficient control of our overall facility environment.
You should not notice a disruption in any heating services.
I wish to thank Ted Williams, Director of the Physical Plant, and his staff for their intensive planning for the conversion and their commitment to enhanced energy efficiency for Bethany College.
