Enterprise wins EPA permit on new Texas PDH unit

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently issued a final greenhouse gas (GHG) Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) construction permit for the Enterprise Products operating facility in Mont Belvieu, Texas. 

The permit allows the company to build a propane dehydrogenation (PDH) unit with catalytic reactors, heaters, and gas turbines that maximize thermal efficiency. 

                                                                     

“We continue to work with Texas’ businesses to take action on reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” said EPA regional administrator Ron Curry. “We are pleased to see companies making a positive difference to reduce environmental impacts on our climate and create jobs.”

The project will use catalytic reactors to convert propane into propylene and hydrogen. The project is also expected to produce over 1.6 billion lb/year of propylene.

In June 2010, EPA finalized national GHG regulations, which specify that beginning on January 2, 2011, projects that increase GHG emissions substantially will require an air permit.

Texas is working to replace a federal implementation plan with its own state program, which will eliminate the need for businesses to seek air permits from EPA. This action is designed to increase efficiency and allow for industry to continue to grow in Texas, according to EPA officials.

EPA has finalized 35 GHG permits in Texas, proposed an additional 9 permits, and currently has over 30 additional GHG permit applications under development in the state.