ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY HEADLINESEnvironment and Sustainability
Ohio EPA Grants Final Air Permit to Middletown Coke
Nov. 26, 2008 Ohio EPA has granted Sun Coke (doing business as Middletown Coke) a final air permit-to-install that paves the way for the company to begin its construction of three heat-recovery batteries adjacent to AK Steel’s Middletown Works. Sun Coke had announced construction of the new facility, which will comprise a total of 100 heat-recovery coke ovens, earlier this year.
Ohio EPA has developed a page detailing answers to specific questions that have been raised regarding the new Middletown Coke facility and its operation. This information may be found in Ohio EPA's Response to Comments for Middletown Coke, which is at
As a result of public comments, some changes were incorporated into the final permit. For example, additional terms specify new ambient air monitoring near the site to test for toxics and hazardous air pollutants once every 12 days. PM2.5 will be tested once every three days, and PM10 will be tested once every six days.
The particulate emission limits for from the coke quench operation are more stringent based on supporting data provided to Ohio EPA, and PM10 emissions will be measured differently as the result of new federal guidance.
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Although Ohio EPA issued the permit, U.S. EPA is currently reviewing one item concerning the use of shutdown credits. The US EPA could decide to agree or not agree with Ohio EPA's determination.
"This is a good permit, one that is protective of human health and the environment, and one which, in our view, is fully compliant with the Clean Air Act," said Chris Korleski, Director of Ohio EPA. "I realize that air permitting can be complex, and we certainly want to have the benefit of US EPA's analysis. Nevertheless, while discussions continue with our federal partners, I believe it is necessary to preserve the validity of our own interpretation and to move forward with the issuance of the permit."
Ohio EPA has recommended and requested that Middletown Coke Company not begin actual construction until the issue is resolved.
Operations at Middletown Coke’s new coke-making facility will include coal handling, coal charging, heat recovery coking, coke pushing, coke quenching and coke handling and storage. Heat recovery generators would recover waste heat from the ovens to produce steam and electricity. The proposed facility is designed to coke up to 912,500 tons per year of coal.
Ohio EPA air permits establish limits on emissions and the operation, and require the use of best available technology to control emissions. Emissions limits are established to ensure compliance with federal clean air standards and protect public health.