Data Analyses and Inspections of Coal Combustion Residual Facilities

Coal combustion residuals have the potential to create risk to human health and the environment if not properly managed, which is why CCR facilities are required to comply with Resource Conservation and Recovery Act regulations to reduce and minimize these risks. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance wanted to learn how well these facilities were complying with RCRA regulations so the agency could ensure that proper safeguards would be put in place for facilities that were not in compliance. EPA selected ERG to evaluate facility compliance.

ERG spearheaded the collection and analysis of information for coal combustion residual facilities throughout the United States. We inspected CCR impoundments to assess their compliance with the coal combustion residual rules. The ERG team also analyzed data from 47 facilities to assess compliance with CCR regulations, evaluate impacts on groundwater, and assess corrective measures. We meticulously reviewed publicly accessible CCR facility websites, other publicly available information, and information obtained from facility owners and operators. By gathering detailed information from the wide variety of available information sources, we were able to present EPA with a comprehensive summary of information on facility backgrounds, groundwater monitoring systems and data, alternate source demonstration analyses, potential receptors, corrective measures performance, and closure and post-closure documentation. This information helped EPA take further steps to reduce risk to human health and the environment.