The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced settlements with four companies over violations related to coal ash surface impoundments and landfills. These agreements, concluded recently, involve facilities in Alabama, Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Puerto Rico. The companies are required to address groundwater monitoring issues, conduct protective groundwater cleanup, enhance emergency planning, and pay fines.
These settlements align with the EPA's National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative aimed at protecting communities from coal ash contamination. Coal ash is a byproduct of burning coal for energy and contains contaminants that can cause cancer and other health problems. Before 2015, its management was not regulated nationally but varied across states. Typically disposed of in unlined landfills or impoundments in contact with groundwater, coal ash poses risks of contaminating water sources if not properly managed.
David M. Uhlmann, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance stated: “EPA is committed to protecting communities from coal ash contamination so that residents who live near coal-burning power plants can breathe clean air and drink safe water, just as everyone living in the United States deserves.” He added that these settlements highlight the agency's focus on ensuring adequate monitoring and protection of groundwater near coal ash facilities.
The details of the settlements are as follows:
In Puerto Rico (Region 2), AES Puerto Rico L.P., operating an electrical plant in Guayama, will address groundwater monitoring issues at its landfill and pay a $71,845 penalty.
In Pennsylvania (Region 3), Keystone-Conemaugh Projects LLC has committed to comply with regulations at its four surface impoundments and will pay a $185,927 penalty.
In Alabama (Region 4), Alabama Power Company will expand its groundwater monitoring program at Plant Barry, upgrade its Emergency Action Plan, and pay a $278,000 penalty.
In Colorado (Region 8), Public Service Company of Colorado will rectify groundwater monitoring deficiencies at Cherokee Station plant and pay a $134,500 penalty.
The EPA established national rules for managing coal ash in April 2015 to mitigate risks such as leaking contaminants into groundwater or dust emissions into the air. These rules provide comprehensive guidelines for handling and disposing of coal ash safely.
For further information on coal ash management activities by the agency, visit EPA’s Coal Ash website.
