Small Chemical Producers in Texas Optimistic About Complying with New NOx Regulations

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Researched by Industrialinfo.com (Industrial Information Resources, Incorporated; Houston, Texas). Small chemical producers in Texas are increasingly optimistic about their ability to meet and comply with new TNRCC (Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission) regulations that mandate drastic reductions in NOx (Nitrogen Oxide) emissions under the state's new SIP (State Implementation Plan).

"A surprising number of the small chemical producers that I have spoken with over the last month or two have already installed new burner technology on small boilers and heaters or have replacement plans for reciprocating compressors already on the drawing board that will take place over the next twelve months," commented Trey Hamblet, Chemical Group Manager with Industrialinfo.com. "Obviously the expense on the small producer is significant, but a large number of them have been successful in identifying energy reliability projects that are rewarding them with surprising results."

Although the ethylene producers and plants with large heaters, boilers, and steam generation equipment are hardest hit in terms of dollars, many producers are in an advanced stage of either implementing or designing technology changes that will reduce NOx emissions. Emission reductions for the large producer are typically coming from the installation of SCR's (Selective Catalytic Reduction) on the smoke stack or the addition of new low NOx burners that are available now from several vendors.

The TNRCC is expected to make a decision on whether it will enforce an 80% or 90% reduction in NOx emissions any time now. The ten percent difference will make or break a selected few ethylene producers, while the smaller producers will continue to consult with vendors and technology firms to achieve compliance through small incremental projects.