Predictive Emission Monitoring Systems: Low-Cost Continuous Emission Monitoring

The fIrst predictive emission monitoring system (PEMS) requirements were established by the Arkansas Division of Pollution Control in a permit issued to Arkansas Eastman. These requirements were based on the hardware continuous emission monitoring system (CEMS) requirements established under 40 CFR Part 60, Appendix B, Performance Specification 2. In response to industry and a concern for affordable monitoring, the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) in their nitrogen oxides reasonably achievable control technology rules (NOx RACT rules) created PEMS requirements based on the alternative monitoring system requirements of 40 CPR Part 75, Subpart E of the Acid Rain Program. The TNRCC determined that the Acid Rain requirements were impractical and altered those requirements so that a PEMS could certified in 2 to 3 days instead of the 30 day period mandated by the Acid Rain Program.