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Administrative Code

Virginia Administrative Code
10/10/2024

Chapter 540. Emergency Generator General Permit

Part I
Definitions

9VAC5-540-10. General.

A. For the purpose of applying this chapter in the context of regulations of the board and related uses, the words or terms shall have the meanings given them in 9VAC5-540-20.

B. Unless specifically defined in the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law or in this chapter, terms used shall have the meaning given them by 9VAC5-80-1110 (definitions, Permits for New and Modified Stationary Sources), 9VAC5-10-20 (general definitions, Regulations for the Control and Abatement of Air Pollution), 9VAC5-170-20 (definitions, Regulation for General Administration), or commonly ascribed to them by recognized authorities, in that order of priority.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-20. Terms defined.

"Affected unit" means one or more emergency generation units subject to the provisions of this chapter.

"Aggregate rated electrical power output" means (i) the sum or total rated electrical power output for all affected units involved in the application or (ii) in nonattainment areas, the sum or total rated electrical output for all affected units, permitted or exempt, located at the facility.

"Attainment area" means any area (other than an area identified as a nonattainment area) that meets the national ambient air quality standards for any pollutant pursuant to § 107 of the federal Clean Air Act (42 USC § 7401 et seq.).

"Biodiesel fuel" means a fuel comprised of mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable or animal fats, designated B100, and meeting the requirements of ASTM D6751-09.

"Biodiesel blends" means a blend of biodiesel and petroleum diesel fuel meeting either the requirements of ASTM D975-10b (blends up to 5.0%) or ASTM D7467 (blends between 6.0% and 20% biodiesel) and designated Bxx where xx represents the biodiesel content of the blend, e.g., B20 for a blend of 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel fuel.

"Compression ignition unit" or "CI unit" means a type of stationary internal combustion engine that is not a spark ignition engine.

"Demand response" means measures aimed at shifting time of use of electricity from peak-use periods to times of lower demand by inducing retail customers to curtail electricity usage during periods of congestion and higher prices in the electrical grid. Demand response actions are typically undertaken by the source owner in response to a request from a utility or electrical grid system operator or in response to market prices. Demand response participants do not include affected units that are participating in an ISO's Manual 13 Emergency Operations program.

"Diesel fuel" means any liquid obtained from the distillation of petroleum with a boiling point of approximately 150°C to 360°C and that complies with the specifications for S15 diesel fuel oil, as defined by the American Society for Testing and Materials in ASTM D975-10b.

"Emergency" means a condition that arises from sudden and reasonably unforeseeable events where the primary energy or power source is disrupted or disconnected due to conditions beyond the control of an owner of a source including any of the following:

1. A failure of the electrical grid.

2. On-site disaster or equipment failure.

3. Public service emergencies such as flood, fire, natural disaster, or severe weather conditions.

4. An ISO-declared emergency, where an ISO emergency is any of the following:

a. An abnormal system condition requiring manual or automatic action to maintain system frequency, to prevent loss of firm load, equipment damage, or tripping of system elements that could adversely affect the reliability of an electric system or the safety of persons or property.

b. Capacity deficiency or capacity excess conditions.

c. A fuel shortage requiring departure from normal operating procedures in order to minimize the use of such scarce fuel.

d. Abnormal natural events or man-made threats that would require conservative operations to posture the system in a more reliable state.

e. An abnormal event external to the ISO service territory that may require ISO action.

"Emergency generation unit or source" means a stationary internal combustion engine that operates only during an emergency, required maintenance, or operability and emissions testing.

"General permit" means, for an emergency generation unit, the terms and conditions in Part IV (9VAC5-540-140 et seq.) of this chapter that meet the requirements of Part II (9VAC5-540-30 et seq.) and Part III (9VAC5-540-90 et seq.) of this chapter and issued under the provisions of 9VAC5-80-1250.

"Identical affected unit" means electric generating units that have the same make, manufacturer, model, year, size, and fuel specifications.

"Independent system operator" or "ISO" means a person who may receive or has received by transfer pursuant to § 56-576 of the Code of Virginia, any ownership or control of, or any responsibility to operate, all or part of the transmission systems in the Commonwealth.

"Integration operational period" means that period of time beginning with the first time the affected unit is started on-site and ending when the affected unit is fully integrated with the source's electrical system. In no case shall this period exceed 30 days.

"ISO-declared emergency" means a condition that exists when the independent system operator, as defined in § 56-576 of the Code of Virginia, notifies electric utilities that an emergency exists or may occur and that complies with the definition of "emergency" adopted by the board.

"Kilowatt (kW) to brake horsepower (bhp)" means the conversion of 1 kW = 1.341 bhp.

"Load curtailment" means an action similar to demand response, with the specific removal or reduction of electrical loads for a limited period of time from a utility grid system in response to a request from the utility or electrical grid system operator.

"Major new source review (major NSR) program" means a preconstruction review and permit program (i) for new major stationary sources or major modifications (physical changes or changes in the method of operation), (ii) established to implement the requirements of §§ 112, 165, and 173 of the federal Clean Air Act (42 USC §§ 7401 et seq.) and associated regulations, and (iii) codified in Article 1 (9VAC5-80-50 et seq.), Article 7 (9VAC5-80-1400 et seq.), Article 8 (9VAC5-80-1605 et seq.) and Article 9 (9VAC5-80-2000 et seq.) of Part II (Permit Procedures) of 9VAC5-80 (Permits for Stationary Sources.

"Manufacturer certified emissions" means the emission levels from a stationary compression ignition engine as identified according to the manufacturers' specifications applicable to that engine's family and model year.

"Model year" means either (i) the calendar year in which the engine was originally produced or (ii) the annual new model production period of the engine manufacturer if it is different than the calendar year. This must include January 1 of the calendar year for which the model year is named. It may not begin before January 2 of the previous calendar year and it must end by December 31 of the named calendar year. For an engine that is converted to a stationary engine after being placed into service as a nonroad or other nonstationary engine, model year means the calendar year or new model production period in which the engine was originally produced.

"Nonattainment area" means any area that does not meet the national ambient air quality standards for any pollutant pursuant to § 107 of the federal Clean Air Act (42 USC § 7401 et seq.) and listed in 9VAC5-20-204.

"Operation" means the burning of fuel regardless of whether electricity is generated.

"Peak shaving" means measures aimed solely at shifting time of use of electricity from peak-use periods to times of lower demand by inducing retail customers to curtail electricity usage during periods of congestion and higher prices in the electrical grid. Peak shaving is typically undertaken at a source owner's discretion in order to reduce maximum electrical usage and, therefore, cost of electrical service to the source owner.

"Reference method" means any method of sampling and analyzing for an air pollutant as described in the following EPA regulations:

1. For ambient air quality standards in 9VAC5-30 (Ambient Air Quality Standards): the applicable appendix of 40 CFR Part 50 or any method that has been designated as a reference method in accordance with 40 CFR Part 53, except that it does not include a method for which a reference designation has been canceled in accordance with 40 CFR 53.11 or 40 CFR 53.16;

2. For emission standards in 9VAC5-40 (Existing Stationary Sources) and 9VAC5-50 (New and Modified Stationary Sources): Appendix M of 40 CFR Part 51 or Appendix A of 40 CFR Part 60; or

3. For emission standards in 9VAC5-60 (Hazardous Air Pollutant Sources): Appendix B of 40 CFR Part 61 or Appendix A of 40 CFR Part 63.

"Spark ignition unit" or "SI unit" means a natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas fueled engine or any other type of engine with a spark plug (or other sparking device) and with operating characteristics significantly similar to the theoretical Otto combustion cycle. Spark ignition engines usually use a throttle to regulate intake air flow to control power during normal operation. Dual-fuel engines in which a liquid fuel (typically diesel fuel) is used for compression ignition and gaseous fuel (typically natural gas) is used as the primary fuel at an annual average ratio of less than 2 parts diesel fuel to 100 parts total fuel on an energy equivalent basis are spark ignition engines.

"Startup" means the date on which each affected unit completes the integration operational period, unless an extension for start-up notification as stated in subdivision 4 of 9VAC5-540-210 is approved by the department. An extension request must be submitted seven days prior to the end of the 30-day integration operational period.

"Virginia Air Pollution Control Law" means Chapter 13 (§ 10.1-1300 et seq.) of Title 10.1 of the Code of Virginia.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011; Errata, 28:14 VA.R. 1283 March 12, 2012.

Part II
General Provisions

9VAC5-540-30. Purpose.

The purpose of this general permit is to establish requirements covering an emissions unity category pursuant to § 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia and 9VAC5-80-1250.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-40. Applicability.

A. This chapter applies to each affected unit (i) for which construction, modification, or operation is commenced on or after August 17, 2011; (ii) that does not meet the permit exemption thresholds of 9VAC5-80-1320 B 2 b, 9VAC5-80-1320 C 1, or 9VAC5-1320 D 1; and (iii) that meets the requirements of this subsection.

1. For CI units, located in an attainment area with an aggregate rated electrical power output identified in Table I:

Table I
Aggregate Rated Electrical Power Output For CI Units in an Attainment Area

Affected Unit Size
kW (bhp)

With a Displacement of: (liters/cylinder)

With a Model Year of:

x ≤ 6,906 (9,261)

Less than 10

2010

x ≤ 8,472 (11,361)

Less than 10

2011+

x ≤ 8,146 (10,924)

10.0 ≤ x < 15.0

2010+

2. For CI units, located in a nonattainment area with an aggregate rated electrical power output identified in Table II:

Table II
Aggregate Rated Electrical Power Output For CI Units in a Nonattainment Area

Affected Unit Size
kW (bhp)

With a Displacement of: (liters/cylinder)

With a Model Year of:

x ≤ 3,850 (5,163)

Less than 10

2010

x ≤ 4,722 (6,332)

Less than 10

2011+

x ≤ 4,540 (6,088)

10.0 ≤ x < 15.0

2010+

3. For SI units located in an attainment area with an aggregate rated electrical power output less than or equal to 23,535 kW (31,560 bhp).

4. For SI units located in a nonattainment area with an aggregate rated electrical power output less than or equal to 13,115 kW (17,587 bhp).

B. This chapter applies throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.

C. The following affected unit or units shall not be eligible for this general permit:

1. Any affected unit that is subject to the provisions of the major new source review program as defined in this chapter.

2. Any affected unit that operates during nonemergency conditions for purposes other than required maintenance and operability testing (including but not limited to peak shaving, demand response, or as part of any other interruptible power supply arrangement with a power provider, other market participant, or system operator).

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011; Errata, 27:25 VA.R. 2730 August 15, 2011; Errata, 28:14 VA.R. 1283 March 12, 2012.

9VAC5-540-50. General.

A. Any owner requesting authority to operate an affected unit shall comply with the requirements of 9VAC5-80 (Permits for Stationary Sources) and register with the department as required under 9VAC5-20-160.

B. The existence of a permit under this chapter shall not constitute a defense of a violation of the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law or the regulations of the board and shall not relieve any owner of the responsibility to comply with any applicable regulations, laws, ordinances, and orders of the governmental entities having jurisdiction.

C. Upon request of the department, the owner shall reduce the level of operation or shut down an affected unit as necessary to avoid violating any primary ambient air quality standard and shall not return to normal operation until such time as the ambient air quality standard will not be violated.

D. This general permit to construct or modify each affected unit shall become invalid, unless an extension is granted by the department, if:

1. A program of continuous construction or modification is not commenced within 18 months from the date that this general permit is issued to the owner; or

2. A program of construction or modification is discontinued for a period of 18 months or more or is not completed within a reasonable time, except for a department-approved period between phases of a phased construction project.

E. At all times, including periods of startup, shutdown, and malfunction, the owner shall, to the extent practicable, maintain and operate the affected unit, including associated air pollution control equipment, in a manner consistent with good air pollution control practices for minimizing emissions.

F. The owner shall develop a maintenance schedule and maintain records of all scheduled and nonscheduled maintenance.

G. The owner shall have available written operating procedures for equipment. These procedures shall be based on the manufacturer's recommendations, at a minimum.

H. The owner shall train operators in the proper operation of all such equipment and familiarize the operators with the written operating procedures prior to their first operation of such equipment. The owner shall maintain records of the training provided including the names of trainees, the date of training, and the nature of the training.

I. Records of maintenance and training shall be maintained on-site for a period of five years and shall be made available to department personnel upon request. If the site is remotely operated, the maintenance and training records may be kept off-site but shall be made available to the department within three business days of a department request.

J. The owner shall keep a copy of this general permit on the premises of the affected unit to which it applies

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-60. Circumvention, suspension, or revocation.

A. No owner shall cause or permit the installation or use of any device or any means that, without resulting in reduction in the total amount of air pollutants emitted, conceals or dilutes an emission of air pollutants that would otherwise violate this chapter.

B. This general permit may be suspended or revoked if the owner:

1. Knowingly makes material misstatements in the general permit application or any amendments to it.

2. Fails to comply with the conditions of this general permit.

3. Fails to comply with any emission standards applicable to an affected unit.

4. Causes emissions from the stationary source that result in violations of, or interfere with the attainment and maintenance of, any ambient air quality standard.

5. Fails to operate in conformance with any applicable control strategy, including any emission standards or emission limitations, or applicable regulations of the board in effect at the time an application for this general permit is submitted.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-70. Compliance.

A. Whenever it is necessary for the purpose of the regulations of the board, the board or an agent authorized by the board may at reasonable times enter an establishment or upon property, public or private, for the purpose of obtaining information or conducting surveys or investigations as authorized by § 10.1-1315 or 46.2-1187.1 of the Code of Virginia.

B. The time for inspection shall be deemed reasonable during regular business hours or whenever the source is in operation. Nothing contained herein shall make an inspection time unreasonable during an emergency.

C. Upon presentation of credentials and other documents as may be required by law, the owner shall allow the department to perform the following:

1. Enter upon the premises where the source is located or emissions-related activity is conducted, or where records must be kept under the terms and conditions of this general permit.

2. Have access to and copy, at reasonable times, any records that must be kept under the terms and conditions of this general permit.

3. Inspect at reasonable times any facilities, equipment (including monitoring equipment), practices, or operations regulated or required under this general permit.

4. Sample or monitor at reasonable times substances or parameters for the purpose of ensuring compliance with this general permit or applicable requirements.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-80. Enforcement of a general permit.

A. The following general requirements apply:

1. Pursuant to § 10.1-1322 of the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law, failure to comply with any term or condition of the general permit shall be considered a violation of the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law.

2. An owner who (i) violates or fails, neglects, or refuses to obey any provision of this chapter or the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law, any applicable requirement, or any permit term or condition; (ii) knowingly makes any false statement, representation, or certification in any form, in any notice or report required by a general permit; or (iii) knowingly renders inaccurate any required monitoring device or method shall be subject to the provisions of §§ 10.1-1307, 10.1-1309, 10.1-1316, 10.1-1318, and 10.1-1320 of the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law.

B. Violation of this general permit is subject to the enforcement provisions including, but not limited to, those contained in 9VAC5-170 (Regulation for General Administration) and §§ 10.1-1309, 10.1-1309.1, 10.1-1311, and 10.1-1316 of the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law.

C. If any condition, requirement, or portion of this general permit is held invalid or inapplicable under any circumstance, such invalidity or inapplicability shall not affect or impair the remaining conditions, requirements, or portions of this general permit.

D. The owner shall comply with all conditions of this general permit. Any noncompliance with this general permit constitutes a violation of the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law and is grounds for (i) enforcement action or (ii) suspension or revocation of the authorization to operate under this general permit.

E. It shall not be a defense for an owner in an enforcement action that it would have been necessary to halt or reduce the permitted activity in order to maintain compliance with the conditions of this general permit.

F. The authorization to operate under this general permit may be suspended or revoked for cause as specified in 9VAC5-530-80. The filing by an owner of a (i) request for reauthorization to operate under this general permit or (ii) notification of termination, planned changes, or anticipated noncompliance does not stay any condition of this general permit.

G. This general permit does not convey any property rights of any sort or any exclusive privilege.

H. Within 30 days of notification, the owner shall furnish to the department any information that the department may request in writing to determine whether cause exists for suspending or revoking the authorization to operate under this general permit or to determine compliance with this general permit. Upon request, the owner shall also furnish to the department copies of records required to be kept by this general permit and, for information claimed to be confidential, the owner shall furnish such records to the department along with a claim of confidentiality meeting the requirements of 9VAC5-170-60.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

Part III
General Permit Administrative Procedures

9VAC5-540-90. Requirements for granting an authorization to operate under the general permit.

A. The department may grant an authorization to operate under the general permit for an affected unit that meets the applicability criteria in 9VAC5-540-40 and the operating limitations in 9VAC5-540-170.

B. The general permit will be issued in accordance with § 2.2-4006 A 8 of the Administrative Process Act.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-100. Applications for coverage under the general permit.

A. The application for an affected unit shall meet the requirements of this chapter and include all information necessary to determine qualification for and to ensure compliance with the general permit.

B. Any application form, report, compliance certification, or other document required to be submitted to the department under this chapter shall meet the requirements of 9VAC5-20-230.

C. Any applicant who fails to submit any relevant facts or who has submitted incorrect information in an application, upon becoming aware of such failure or incorrect submittal, shall promptly submit such supplementary facts or corrected information.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-110. Required information for initial applications.

A. The department will make application forms available to applicants. The information required by this section shall be determined and submitted according to procedures and methods acceptable to the department.

B. Each initial application for coverage under the general permit shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Information specified in the appropriate air permit application form for an affected unit as determined by the regional office.

2. A document certification signed by a responsible official.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-120. Granting an authorization to operate under the general permit.

A. The department may grant authorization to operate under the conditions and terms of the general permit to sources that meet the applicability criteria set forth in 9VAC5-540-40.

B. Granting an authorization to operate under the general permit to an affected unit covered by the general permit is not subject to the public participation procedures of 9VAC5-80-1170.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-130. Transfer of authorizations to operate under the general permit.

A. No person shall transfer an authorization to operate under the general permit from one affected unit to another or from one piece of equipment to another.

B. In the case of a transfer of ownership of an affected unit, the new owner shall comply with any permit issued or authorization to operate under the general permit granted to the previous owner. The new owner shall notify the department of the change in ownership within 30 days of the transfer.

C. In the case of a name change of an affected unit, the owner shall comply with any permit issued or authorization to operate under the general permit granted under the previous source name. The owner shall notify the department of the change in source name within 30 days of the name change.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

Part IV
General Permit Terms and Conditions

9VAC5-540-140. General permit.

A. Any owner whose application is approved by the director shall receive the following general permit and shall comply with the requirements in it and be subject to all requirements of this chapter and the regulations of the board.

B. In compliance with the provisions of the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law and regulations adopted pursuant to it, owners of affected units are authorized to operate under the authority of this general permit, except those where board regulations or policies prohibit such operation.

C. The authorization to operate under this general permit shall be in accordance with the cover letter to this permit, 9VAC5-540-150 (General terms and conditions), 9VAC5-540-160 (Monitoring requirements) 9VAC5-540-170 (Operating limits), 9VAC5-540-180 (Emissions limits), 9VAC5-540-190 (Testing requirements), 9VAC5-540-200 (Recordkeeping requirements), 9VAC5-540-210 (Reporting requirements), and 9VAC5-540-220 (Enforcement).

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-150. General terms and conditions.

A. The owner is authorized to operate an affected unit located within the boundaries of the Commonwealth of Virginia in accordance with the approved permit application and conditions of this general permit except where board regulations or policies prohibit such activities.

B. The owner shall comply with the terms and conditions of this general permit prior to commencing any physical or operational change or activity that will result in making the source subject to the new source review program.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-160. Monitoring requirements.

A. The owner shall install and use a nonresettable hour metering device to monitor the operating hours for each affected unit, calculated monthly as the sum of each consecutive 12-month period.

B. Each monitoring device shall be installed, maintained, calibrated, and operated in accordance with approved procedures, which shall include, as a minimum, the manufacturer's written requirements or recommendations.

C. The hour meter used to continuously measure the hours of operation for each affected unit shall be observed by the owner with a frequency of not less than once per month. The owner shall keep a log of the observations from the hour meter.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-170. Operating limits.

A. Each affected unit located in an attainment area shall not operate more than 450 hours per year, calculated monthly as the sum of each consecutive 12-month period.

1. Compliance for the consecutive 12-month period shall be demonstrated monthly by adding the total for the most recently completed calendar month to the individual monthly totals for the preceding 11 months.

2. Total emissions for any consecutive 12-month period, calculated as the sum of all emissions from operations under this condition, shall not exceed the limits stated in of 9VAC5-540-180 F.

B. Each affected unit located in a nonattainment area shall not operate more than 500 hours per year, calculated monthly as the sum of each consecutive 12-month period.

1. Compliance for the consecutive 12-month period shall be demonstrated monthly by adding the total for the most recently completed calendar month to the individual monthly totals for the preceding 11 months.

2. Total emissions for any consecutive 12-month period, calculated as the sum of all emissions from operations under this condition, shall not exceed the limits stated in 9VAC5-540-180 F.

C. The approved fuels for each CI affected unit are diesel fuel, biodiesel fuel, and biodiesel blends. These fuels shall meet the following specifications:

1. Diesel fuel that meets the ASTM D975-10b specification for S15 fuel oil; maximum sulfur content per shipment, 0.0015%.

2. Biodiesel fuel which meets ASTM specification D6751-09; maximum sulfur content per shipment, 0.0015%.

D. The approved fuels for each SI affected unit are natural gas and liquid petroleum gas (LPG). These fuels shall meet the following specifications.

1. Natural gas with a minimum heat content of 1,000 Btu/scf HHV as determined by ASTM D1826-94 (Reapproved 2010), ASTM D4809-09a, or an equivalent method approved by the department.

2. LPG, including butane and propane, that meets ASTM D1835-05, or an equivalent method approved by the department.

E. For affected units using diesel fuel or biodiesel fuel, the owner shall obtain a certification from the fuel supplier with each shipment of diesel fuel or biodiesel fuel. Each fuel supplier certification shall include the following:

1. The name of the fuel supplier.

2. The date on which the diesel fuel or biodiesel was received.

3. The quantity of diesel fuel or biodiesel delivered in the shipment.

4. A statement that the diesel fuel complies with the American Society for Testing and Materials specifications (ASTM D975-10b) for S15 fuel oil.

5. A statement that the biodiesel fuel complies with the American Society for Testing and Materials specifications (ASTM D6751-09), and

6. The sulfur content of the diesel fuel or biodiesel fuel.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-180. Emissions limits.

A. Manufacturer certified emissions of each CI affected unit located in an attainment area shall not exceed the limits specified in Table III.

Table III
Emissions Limits for CI Units Located in Attainment Areas

Generator Size (kW)

Displacement liters/cylinder

Model Year

Emission Limits
g/kW-hr (g/bhp-hr)

PM

PM10

PM2.5

CO

VOC

NOx

x < 8 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.4

0.4

0.4

8.0

7.5*

(x < 11 bhp)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(6.0)

(5.6*)

8 kW ≤ x < 19 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.4

0.4

0.4

6.6

7.5*

(11 bhp ≤ x < 25 bhp)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(4.9)

(5.6*)

19 kW ≤ x < 37 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.3

0.3

0.3

5.5

7.5*

(25 bhp ≤ x < 50 bhp)

(0.22)

(0.22)

(0.22)

(4.1)

(5.6*)

37 kW ≤ x < 75 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.4

0.4

0.4

5.0

4.7*

(50 bhp ≤ x < 100 bhp)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(3.7)

(3.5*)

75 kW ≤ x < 130 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.3

0.3

0.3

5.0

4.0*

(100 bhp ≤ x < 174 bhp)

(0.22)

(0.22)

(0.22)

(3.7)

(3.0*)

130 kW ≤ x < 560 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.2

0.2

0.2

3.5

4.0*

(174 bhp ≤ x < 751 bhp)

(0.15)

(0.15)

(0.15)

(2.6)

(3.0*)

560 kW ≤ x < 2,237 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.2

0.2

0.2

3.5

6.4*

(751 bhp ≤ x < 3,000 bhp)

(0.15)

(0.15)

(0.15)

(2.6)

(4.8*)

x ≥ 2,237 kW

Less than 10

2010

0.54

0.54

0.54

11.4

1.3

9.2

(x ≥ 3,000 bhp)

(0.40)

(0.40)

(0.40)

(8.5)

(1.0)

(6.9)

2011+

0.2

0.2

0.2

3.5

6.4*

(0.15)

(0.15)

(0.15)

(2.6)

(4.8*)

x ≥ 2,237 kW

10.0 ≤ x < 15.0

2010+

0.27

0.27

0.27

5.0

7.8*

(x ≥ 3,000 bhp)

(0.20)

(0.20)

(0.20)

(3.7)

(5.8*)

*Combined limit for VOC and NOx

B. Emissions of each CI affected unit located in an attainment area during testing shall not exceed the limits specified in Table IV.

Table IV
Emissions Limits for CI Units Located in Attainment Areas

Generator Size (kW)

Displacement liters/cylinder

Model Year

Emission Limits
(g/kW-hr (g/bhp-hr)

PM

PM10

PM2.5

CO

VOC

NOx

x < 8 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.5

0.5

0.5

10.0

9.4*

(x < 11 bhp)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(7.5)

(7.0*)

8 kW ≤ x < 19 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.5

0.5

0.5

8.3

9.4*

(11 bhp ≤ x < 25 bhp)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(6.2)

(7.0*)

19 kW ≤ x < 37 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.38

0.38

0.38

6.9

9.4*

(25 bhp ≤ x < 50 bhp)

(0.28)

(0.28)

(0.28)

(5.1)

(7.0*)

37 kW ≤ x < 75 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.5

0.5

0.5

6.3

5.9*

(50 bhp ≤ x < 100 bhp)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(4.7)

(4.4*)

75 kW ≤ x < 130 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.38

0.38

0.38

6.3

5.0*

(100 bhp ≤ x < 174 bhp)

(0.28)

(0.28)

(0.28)

(4.7)

(3.7*)

130 kW ≤ x < 560 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.25

0.25

0.25

4.4

5.0*

(174 bhp ≤ x < 751 bhp)

(0.19)

(0.19)

(0.19)

(3.3)

(3.7*)

560 kW ≤ x < 2,237 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.25

0.25

0.25

4.4

8.0*

(751 bhp ≤ x < 3,000 bhp)

(0.19)

(0.19)

(0.19)

(3.3)

(6.0*)

x ≥ 2,237 kW

Less than 10

2010

0.68

0.68

0.68

14.3

1.6

11.5

(x ≥ 3,000 bhp)

(0.51)

(0.51)

(0.51)

(10.7)

(1.2)

(8.6)

2011+

0.25

0.25

0.25

4.4

8.0*

(0.19)

(0.19)

(0.19)

(3.3)

(6.0*)

x ≥ 2,237 kW

10.0 ≤ x < 15.0

2010+

0.34

0.34

0.34

6.3

9.8*

(x ≥ 3,000 bhp)

(0.25)

(0.25)

(0.25)

(4.7)

(7.3*)

*Combined limit for VOC and NOx

C. Manufacturer certified emissions of each CI affected unit located in a nonattainment attainment area shall not exceed the limits specified in Table V.

Table V
Emissions Limits for CI Units Located in Nonattainment Areas

Generator Size (kW)

Displacement liters/cylinder

Model Year

Emission Limits
g/kW-hr (g/bhp-hr)

PM

PM10

PM2.5

CO

VOC

NOx

x < 8 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.4

0.4

0.4

8.0

6.4*

(x < 11 bhp)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(6.0)

(4.8*)

8 kW ≤ x < 19 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.4

0.4

0.4

6.6

6.4*

(11 bhp ≤ x < 25 bhp)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(4.9)

(4.8*)

19 kW ≤ x < 37 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.3

0.3

0.3

5.5

6.4*

(25 bhp ≤ x < 50 bhp)

(0.22)

(0.22)

(0.22)

(4.1)

(4.8*)

37 kW ≤ x < 75 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.4

0.4

0.4

5.0

4.7*

(50 bhp ≤ x < 100 bhp)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(0.30)

(3.7)

(3.5*)

75 kW ≤ x < 130 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.3

0.3

0.3

5.0

4.0*

(100 bhp ≤ x < 174 bhp)

(0.22)

(0.22)

(0.22)

(3.7)

(3.0*)

130 kW ≤ x < 560 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.2

0.2

0.2

3.5

4.0*

(174 bhp ≤ x < 751 bhp)

(0.15)

(0.15)

(0.15)

(2.6)

(3.0*)

560 kW ≤ x < 2,237 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.2

0.2

0.2

3.5

6.4*

(751 bhp ≤ x < 3,000 bhp)

(0.15)

(0.15)

(0.15)

(2.6)

(4.8*)

x ≥ 2,237 kW

Less than 10

2010

0.54

0.54

0.54

11.4

1.3

6.4

(x ≥ 3,000 bhp)

(0.40)

(0.40)

(0.40)

(8.5)

(1.0)

(4.8)

2011+

0.2

0.2

0.2

3.5

6.4*

(0.15)

(0.15)

(0.15)

(2.6)

(4.8*)

x ≥ 2,237 kW

10.0 ≤ x < 15.0

2010+

0.27

0.27

0.27

5.0

6.4*

(x ≥ 3,000 bhp)

(0.20)

(0.20)

(0.20)

(3.7)

(4.8*)

*Combined limit for VOC and NOx

D. Emissions from the operation of each CI affected unit located in a nonattainment area during testing shall not exceed the limits specified in Table VI.

Table VI
Emissions Limits During Testing for CI Units Located in Nonattainment Areas

Generator Size (kW)

Displacement liters/cylinder

Model Year

Emission Limits
g/kW-hr (g/bhp-hr)

PM

PM10

PM2.5

CO

VOC

NOx

x < 8 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.5

0.5

0.5

10.0

8.0*

(x < 11 bhp)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(7.5)

(6.0*)

8 kW ≤ x < 19 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.5

0.5

0.5

8.3

8.0*

(11 bhp ≤ x < 25 bhp)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(6.2)

(6.0*)

19 kW ≤ x < 37 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.38

0.38

0.38

6.9

8.0*

(25 bhp ≤ x < 50 bhp)

(0.28)

(0.28)

(0.28)

(5.1)

(6.0*)

37 kW ≤ x < 75 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.5

0.5

0.5

6.3

5.9*

(50 bhp ≤ x < 100 bhp)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(0.4)

(4.7)

(4.4*)

75 kW ≤ x < 130 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.38

0.38

0.38

6.3

5.0*

(100 bhp ≤ x < 174 bhp)

(0.28)

(0.28)

(0.28)

(4.7)

(3.7*)

130 kW ≤ x < 560 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.25

0.25

0.25

4.4

5.0*

(174 bhp ≤ x < 751 bhp)

(0.19)

(0.19)

(0.19)

(3.3)

(3.7*)

560 kW ≤ x < 2,237 kW

Less than 10

2010+

0.25

0.25

0.25

4.4

8.0*

(751 bhp ≤ x < 3,000 bhp)

(0.19)

(0.19)

(0.19)

(3.3)

(6.0*)

x ≥ 2,237 kW

Less than 10

2010

0.68

0.68

0.68

14.3

1.6

8.0

(x ≥ 3,000 bhp)

(0.51)

(0.51)

(0.51)

(10.7)

(1.2)

(6.0)

2011+

0.25

0.25

0.25

4.4

8.0*

(0.19)

(0.19)

(0.19)

(3.3)

(6.0*)

x ≥ 2,237 kW

10.0 ≤ x < 15.0

2010+

0.34

0.34

0.34

6.3

8.0*

(x ≥ 3,000 bhp)

(0.25)

(0.25)

(0.25)

(4.7)

(6.0*)

*Combined limit for VOC and NOx

E. Emissions from the operation of each SI affected unit shall not exceed the limits specified in Table VII.

Table VII

Emissions Limits for SI Units

Model Year

Emissions Limits
g/kW-hr (g/bhp-hr)

PM

PM10

PM2.5

CO

VOC

NOx

2010+

0.015

0.015

0.015

5.3

1.3

2.7

(0.011)

(0.011)

(0.011)

(4.0)

(1.0)

(2.0)

Instead of meeting the limits stated above, the owner may meet the alternative standards below: ( ppmvd at 15% O2)

540

86

160

F. Combined source-wide emissions from the operation of affected units shall not exceed the limits specified in Table VIII.

Table VIII
Combined Source-Wide Emissions Limits for Affected Units

Pollutant

Nonattainment Area Emissions (tons/year)

Attainment Area Emissions (tons/year)

PM

1.4

2.3

PM10

1.4

2.3

PM2.5

1.4

2.3

NOX

24.4

39.4

SO2

0.5

0.5

CO

48.0

77.4

VOC

11.8

19.0

G. Visible emissions from each affected unit located in an attainment area shall not exceed 10% opacity except during one six-minute period in any one hour in which visible emissions shall not exceed 20% opacity as determined by Reference Method 9. This condition applies at all times except during startup, shutdown, and malfunction.

H. Visible emissions from each affected unit located in a nonattainment area shall not exceed 5.0% opacity except during one six-minute period in any one hour in which visible emissions shall not exceed 10% opacity as determined by the Reference Method 9. This condition applies at all times except during startup, shutdown, and malfunction.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-190. Testing requirements.

Each affected unit shall be constructed, or modified and installed so as to allow for emissions testing upon reasonable notice at any time, using appropriate methods.

1. Sampling ports shall be provided when requested at the appropriate locations.

2. Safe sampling platforms and access shall be provided.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-200. Recordkeeping requirements.

A. The owner shall maintain on-site records of emission data and operating parameters as necessary to demonstrate compliance with this general permit.

B. The owner shall maintain records of the occurrence and duration of any bypass, malfunction, shutdown, or failure of the source or its associated air pollution control equipment that results in excess emissions for more than one hour. Records shall include the following: (i) date, (ii) time, (iii) duration, (iv) description (affected unit, pollutant affected, cause), (v) corrective action, (vi) preventive measures taken, and (vii) name of person generating the record.

C. The content and format of such records shall be arranged with the regional office. These records shall include, but are not limited to:

1. Total annual hours of operation for each affected unit, calculated monthly as the sum of each consecutive 12-month period. Compliance for the consecutive 12-month period shall be demonstrated monthly by adding the total for the most recently completed calendar month to the individual monthly totals for the preceding 11 months.

2. Records when each affected unit is used for an ISO-declared emergency including, but not limited to, the date, cause of the emergency, the ISO-declared emergency notification, and the hours of operation.

3. Records when each affected unit is used for an emergency that is not an ISO-declared emergency including, but not limited to, the date, cause of the emergency, and the hours of operation.

4. All fuel supplier certifications.

5. Engine information including make, model, serial number, model year, maximum engine power, and engine displacement for each affected unit.

6. Written manufacturer specifications or written standard operating procedures prepared by the owner for each affected unit. The written standard operating procedures prepared by the owner cannot be less stringent than the written manufacturer specifications.

7. Scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, testing, and operator training.

D. These records shall be available for inspection by the department and shall be current for the most recent five years.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

9VAC5-540-210. Reporting requirements.

The owner shall furnish written notification to the regional office of the following:

1. The actual date on which construction or modification of each affected unit commenced within 30 days after such date.

2. If necessary, the actual date on which the integration operational period of each affected unit commenced within 15 days after such date.

3. The anticipated start-up date of each affected unit postmarked or submitted electronically not more than 60 days nor less than 30 days prior to such date.

4. The actual start-up date of each affected unit within 15 days after such date.

Statutory Authority

§ 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011; amended, Virginia Register Volume 40, Issue 14, eff. April 11, 2024.

9VAC5-540-220. Enforcement.

A Violation of this general permit is subject to the enforcement provisions including, but not limited to, those contained in 9VAC5-170 (Regulation for General Administration) and §§ 10.1-1309, 10.1-1309.1, 10.1-1311 and 10.1-1316 of the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law.

B. If any condition, requirement or portion of this general permit is held invalid or inapplicable under any circumstance, such invalidity or inapplicability shall not affect or impair the remaining conditions, requirements, or portions of this permit.

C. The owner shall comply with all conditions of this general permit. Any noncompliance with this permit constitutes a violation of the Virginia Air Pollution Control Law and is grounds for (i) enforcement action or (ii) suspension or revocation of the authorization to operate under this permit.

D. It shall not be a defense for an owner in an enforcement action that it would have been necessary to halt or reduce the permitted activity in order to maintain compliance with the conditions of this general permit.

E. The authorization to operate under this permit may be suspended or revoked for cause as specified in 9VAC5-540-80. The filing by an owner of a (i) request for reauthorization to operate under this general permit or (ii) notification of termination, planned changes, or anticipated noncompliance does not stay any condition of this general permit.

F. This general permit does not convey any property rights of any sort, or any exclusive privilege.

G. Within 30 days of notification, the owner shall furnish to the department any information that the department may request in writing to determine whether cause exists for suspending or revoking the authorization to operate under this general permit or to determine compliance with this general permit. Upon request, the owner shall also furnish to the department copies of records required to be kept by this permit and, for information claimed to be confidential, the owner shall furnish such records to the department along with a claim of confidentiality meeting the requirements of 9VAC5-170-60.

Statutory Authority

§§ 10.1-1307.2 and 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. August 17, 2011.

Forms (9VAC5-540)

Air Permit Application Form, Emergency Generator General Permit, Form 540 (eff. 8/11).

Documents Incorporated by Reference (9VAC5-540)

D975-10b, Standard Specification for Diesel Fuel Oils, ASTM, 2009.

D1826-94 (Reapproved 2010), Standard Test Method for Calorific (Heating) Value of Gases in Natural Gas Range by Continuous Recording Calorimeter, ASTM, 2010.

D1835-05, Standard Specification for Liquefied Petroleum (LP) Gases, ASTM, 2005.

D4809-09a, Standard Test Method for Heat of Combustion of Liquid Hydrocarbon Fuels by Bomb Calorimeter (Precision Method), 2009, ASTM.

D6751-09, Standard Specification for Biodiesel Fuel Blend Stock (B100) for Middle Distillate Fuels, 2009, ASTM.

D7467-10, Standard Specification for Diesel Fuel Oil, Biodiesel Blend (B6 to B20), ASTM, 2010.

Website addresses provided in the Virginia Administrative Code to documents incorporated by reference are for the reader's convenience only, may not necessarily be active or current, and should not be relied upon. To ensure the information incorporated by reference is accurate, the reader is encouraged to use the source document described in the regulation.

As a service to the public, the Virginia Administrative Code is provided online by the Virginia General Assembly. We are unable to answer legal questions or respond to requests for legal advice, including application of law to specific fact. To understand and protect your legal rights, you should consult an attorney.