The Environmental Protection Agency recently announced it has reached a settlement with Evergy Kansas Central Inc. that will require the company to address potential groundwater contamination at a site in Tecumseh.
According to a Nov. 8 news release, the settlement was reached under the Coal Combustion Residuals program. Under the settlement, Evergy will be required to assess contamination at a CCR impoundment site.
“EPA is committed to ensuring that coal ash surface impoundments and landfills operate and close in a manner that protects public health and the environment,” Larry Starfield, EPA Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance acting assistant administrator, said in the release. “The action will require Evergy to investigate and determine the extent of contamination from their operations.”
The company will implement additional monitoring wells, analyze groundwater samples and update closure plans for the facility’s CCR impoundment. Evergy will also be require to pay a civil penalty of $120,000, the release reported.
“EPA is encouraged by Evergy’s willingness to work cooperatively with EPA on this coal ash matter and its commitment to protecting Kansas waters,” EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister said in the release. “This settlement is an important step forward in the federal government’s nationwide effort to ensure energy providers clean up the harmful effects of CCR pollution.”
CCR is primarily produced by coal-fired power plants and can contain toxic levels of mercury, cadmium, arsenic and cobalt, the release reported. Without proper management, these pollutants can contaminate waterways, groundwater, drinking water and the air.
