The consultation seeks views on draft plans to implement the Medium Combustion Plant Directive (MCPD) and emission controls on generators in order to improve air quality. Medium Combustion Plants and generators are a significant source of air pollution and many are not currently regulated in the UK. The Government’s primary driver for action on air quality is the impact it can have on health and the environment. A cleaner, healthier environment benefits people and the economy.
The MCPD is a new Directive which introduces cost effective emission controls on new plants from December 2018 and existing plants in 2025 and 2030, depending on size. The Directive must be transposed into UK Law by December 2017 and the Government is consulting on its proposed approach, particularly in areas where there is a choice with regard to how it is implemented.
Concerns relating to the security of supply in the energy market are giving rise to an increase in generators which emit high levels of air pollutants and action is needed to control emissions from these plants. It is recognised that the MCPD requirements are not sufficient to prevent this increase which is why views are also being sought on additional proposals to limit the emissions from generators.
The consultation is seeking views on the following points:
- Are the proposed timescales for implementation are realistic?
- Is there a case for exemption for legitimate testing of back-up generators?
- Should back-up generators be restricted to testing outside of peak demand times?
- Should those generators with Capacity Market Agreements be subject to the same regulations than those that are currently in operation?
- Should compliance checks be random or scheduled?
The consultation applies to England and Wales only as Scotland, Northern Ireland and Gibraltar will lay their own legislation.
The consultation closes on 8th February 2017. We are formulating our response to the consultation and would welcome your feedback to incorporate into this. To have your say, please email the compliance team at compliance@carbon2018.com or alternatively complete the contact form. To discuss this further please call Melanie Kendall-Reid on 01252 87 87 22.