Power Distribution Companies
In 2022, a total of 435 electric utilities reported their Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) data to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These facilities, primarily those that combust coal or oil to generate electricity for distribution in commerce, are subject to TRI reporting requirements.
The map displayed here shows the locations of these electric utilities. The size of each location corresponds to the amount of TRI chemical wastes released by the respective facility. By clicking on a location, you can access detailed information about the utility's TRI reporting.
These electric utilities, classified under the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 2211, manage their TRI chemical wastes through various methods. This includes coal ash management, treatment, containment, and reporting to the EPA. Coal ash, a waste product from coal combustion, contains hazardous substances and is regulated under EPA rules requiring cleanup and safe disposal or recycling.
The management of TRI chemical wastes also follows Clean Air Act rules and specific emissions standards such as the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), with certain exemptions extended to affected plants beyond 2027 under executive orders for technologies not yet commercially viable.
It's important to note that the EPA has granted electric utilities more time to comply with coal ash cleanup regulations, with the deadline now set for mid-2025.
The TRI data for 2022 is generally available in EPA's TRI databases, but detailed facility-level information may not be found in the search results. For the most current and detailed information, it's recommended to consult the EPA TRI data portal or ECHO system directly.
Examples of notable facilities included in the 2022 TRI reporting are the Cardinal Unit 1-3 in Ohio and the Craig Units 2-3 in Colorado, both subject to Clean Air Act compliance rules and EPA regulations on emissions and waste.
In summary, the map serves as a tool for accessing specific details about each electric utility's TRI reporting for 2022. It exhibits the geographical distribution of electric utilities that manage TRI chemical wastes, with the size of each location corresponding to the amount of releases by the respective facility. For precise 2022 TRI chemical waste quantities and facility lists under NAICS 2211, consulting the EPA TRI data portal or ECHO system directly is recommended.
The management of TRI chemical wastes in the electrical industry, classified under environmental-science, involves adhering to Clean Air Act rules and specific emissions standards such as the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS). These wastes, primarily from coal combustion, often contain hazardous substances and are regulated under EPA rules for cleanup and safe disposal or recycling. Financial considerations, specifically in the realm of energy, are crucial as the EPA has extended deadlines for coal ash cleanup to mid-2025, offering more time for compliance for utilities.
