Streamlined environmental approvals for CHP systems

The Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks is expected to expand eligibility for streamlined Environmental Activity and Sector Registry (EASR) approvals for companies using either natural gas or biomass combined heat and power (CHP) systems. The provincial decision in this regard is reflected in the latest red tape reduction omnibus bill, titled as the “Better for People, Smarter for Business Act, 2019.” A government backgrounder on the bill identifies the new provision as one that “streamlines permitting approvals for combined heat and power systems,” and says, “this initiative would make it easier for businesses to manage their costs and for hospitals and universities to adopt the technology to make them more resilient to natural disasters and weather-related emergencies, ensuring that they are better equipped to remain open and functional in times of need.”

          Power sector advocates report that this legislation significantly simplifies environmental approval requirements. Richard Laszlo of QUEST, who has been spearheading much of the industry advocacy work in this area, says, "Our next step is to bring together subject matter experts in noise, emissions and natural gas specifications to discuss regulatory amendments. For more information, contact Mr. Laszlo at W: questcanada.org E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..