Texas Gas Processing Plant Air Permitting and Air Dispersion Modeling Support
Client: Midstream Oil and Gas Company
Challenge
A midstream oil and gas company needed to authorize an additional processing train at an existing natural gas processing plant. The new processing train was complex with multiple operating scenarios and needed to process inlet gas with H2S exceeding 30,000ppm. The requirements of the facility and client did not allow for the use of Permit by Rule or Standard Permits authorizations. The only authorization option left was a New Source Review (NSR) Case-by-Case Permit, which is tailored by TCEQ to meet the exact operational requirements of the facility.
Solution
Altamira worked with the client to develop an NSR Case-by-Case permit application. Working closely with the client’s environmental, engineering and operational teams, a detailed framework of the exact requirements and steps required was generated. Although the framework evolved after the initial kickoff meeting, it helped ensure all applicable requirements were met and stakeholders were informed and in agreement.
While the NSR Case-by-Case permit met the client’s needs by allowing for great operational flexibility, it came at the cost of needing to conduct site-wide air dispersion modeling using the American Meteorological Society/Environmental Protection Agency Regulatory Model (AERMOD). Full dispersion modeling is often a daunting task, feared by clients, but by utilizing staff that are familiar with both air dispersion modeling and natural gas processing plants, Altamira efficiently built the model utilizing Providence’s BEEST modeling suite and was able to describe the process and results with ease to the client. Our team was also able to quickly pivot and adjust the model and calculations as necessary when the inevitable project equipment and scope changes occurred.
Altamira’s support also didn’t stop once the application was submitted. NSR Case-by-Case permits are detailed in nature and specific to the site in question. Our staff were available after submittal to help explain calculations to TCEQ staff, justify any representations made and to provide an experienced guide to the permitting process.
Results
Altamira built upon the framework that was established at the beginning and took ownership of the project. By the end of the project, Altamira staff referred to the site as “theirs” and took pride in the ability to coordinate with not only the client’s environmental, engineering and operational staff, but also with the TCEQ permit writers and modeling staff. This ownership and coordination helped to minimize the number of meetings, rework and change orders required to get the project completed. The process was long and oftentimes complex, but by utilizing our team’s knowledge, resources and excellent communication skills, the client received an issued permit from the TCEQ within the expected time frame and within the expected budget.
For more information, please contact Laura Worthen Lodes, Chief Engineering Officer
Laura can be reached at laura.worthen-lodes@altamira-us.com
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Air Quality Compliance Services
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