Why is an economic feasibility analysis sometimes required in PSD permitting?

Why is an economic feasibility analysis sometimes required in PSD permitting?

• A. To evaluate the aesthetic impact of emissions.
• B. To decide plant color schemes.
• C. To determine whether required control technologies are economically feasible and to justify the chosen BACT.
• D. To estimate future market demand for products.

Answer: (C)

In PSD permitting, the process includes checking whether the emission control options are economically feasible and using that to justify the chosen BACT. When a major source seeks a permit, agencies compare possible control technologies and weigh their costs—both upfront capital and ongoing operating expenses—against the emission reductions they achieve and any energy or process impacts. This economic feasibility review ensures that the technology selected as BACT is the most stringent option that is economically achievable for that specific facility. In other words, it ties environmental protection to practical cost considerations, so the permit requires effective controls without imposing impractical financial burdens. Aesthetic considerations, plant color schemes, or forecasting market demand aren’t relevant to determining BACT or its justification.

In PSD permitting, the process includes checking whether the emission control options are economically feasible and using that to justify the chosen BACT. When a major source seeks a permit, agencies compare possible control technologies and weigh their costs—both upfront capital and ongoing operating expenses—against the emission reductions they achieve and any energy or process impacts. This economic feasibility review ensures that the technology selected as BACT is the most stringent option that is economically achievable for that specific facility. In other words, it ties environmental protection to practical cost considerations, so the permit requires effective controls without imposing impractical financial burdens. Aesthetic considerations, plant color schemes, or forecasting market demand aren’t relevant to determining BACT or its justification.