TXU Raises the Bar of Utility Responsibility by Voluntarily Planning to Install BACT to Substantially Reduce Mercury Emissions

In what could be termed a surprise announcement TXU Power today said they would install sorbent injection systems on every coal fired unit they own. Activated carbon sorbent is considered the Best Available Control Technology (BACT) for mercury control.

It may not be as much of a surprise as first thought. TXU has been going through acquisition proceedings and has been trying to gain support for more coal fired plants in Texas. It is moves like this that just may get them there too.

A group of investors including among others Texas Pacific Group (TPG) are encouraging the bold move. William Reilly of TPG, and the former Administrator of the USEPA, and a projected Board member for the new management group, speaks for all.

..."After hearing directly from people across Texas, including elected officials and consumer and environmental groups, we reviewed TXU's proposed mercury emissions controls program, and we encouraged TXU to move forward with this progressive program," said William Reilly of TPG. Reilly, a former Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), will join the board of directors of TXU upon closing of the transaction.

The plan has support of local governments too.

"This emissions reduction plan demonstrates a significant commitment by TXU and TEF to protect our air quality and the environment, well in advance of EPA mandates. Mercury emissions have been of major concern throughout the state and, in fact, the nation. All efforts to reduce mercury emissions, sooner rather than later, should be encouraged and supported," said Waco Mayor Virginia DuPuy.

"Clean air and a reliable power supply are important to all Texans, and we all benefit greatly from this plan. I look forward to continuing to work with TEF and TXU as they implement this commitment," said Fairfield Mayor Roy Hill.

If utilities can plan and invest this way for mercury emissions there may be hope for CO2 control as well. If that hurdle can be overcome then responsible utilities like the New TXU should be given permits to expand for future needs. The full EarthTimes article is here.