Emergency generators allow commercial and healthcare facilities to have a continuous stream of power for business activities. They can mitigate financial losses and dangerous situations if the grid cannot supply electricity for any length of time. 

Building owners must know that applying for a general air permit is a requirement when using an emergency generator in NJ facilities. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, or NJDEP, governs the standards for the use of emergency generators in the State.

Emergency generators release various harmful pollutants, such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxide (NOx), and sulfur oxide (SOx). Furthermore, exhaust from diesel generators is composed of toxic contaminants that are either known or suspected to be carcinogens, like benzene, arsenic, and formaldehyde. NJDEP regulating the use of emergency generators helps lessen air pollution risks and safeguard public health.

NJDEP provides different types of general air permits for the use of emergency generators. Identifying which type of permit to apply for can help business owners navigate the process easily. A professional air permit consultant NJ can also help determine the unique compliance requirements for each category.

There are two types of air permits for minor facilities: GP-005A and GP-005B. GP-005A, or the Revised Emergency Generator Burning Distillate Fuels, regulates generators burning distillate fuel with a maximum rated heat input of less than 100 million MMBTU/hr. On the other hand, GP-005B covers single or numerous emergency generators that burn gaseous fuel with a maximum rated heat input of less than 70 MMBTU/hr. 

Obtaining an air permit demonstrates a business’s initiative toward environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance. However, this is a challenging task as it involves preparing all data for application and an equipment data sheet for analysis. Enterprises can secure permits with the help of a professional NJDEP permit consultant to effectively achieve timely compliance with regulations.
For more details about air permits for emergency generators in New Jersey, see this infographic from Lockatong Engineering.