Page 262 - Sustainable On-Site CHP Systems Design, Construction, and Operations

CHAPTER 14

Obtaining Operating

Permits and Implementing

Compliance Management

Programs

Karl Lany

s a CHP project evolves from construction to a commercial operation, the
project developer and owner will be required to ensure that operating permits
Aare in place. They will also be required to demonstrate that the system will be
in compliance with those permits and applicable regulations by completing prescribed
commissioning activities and by implementing environmental monitoring systems and
compliance management programs.

Commissioning the CHP System
Construction permits are typically written to allow for temporary operation of the CHP
system until the final operating permit is issued. Occasionally, the permitting agency
will require a second application submittal to allow for permanent operation of the
CHP system, even though operating conditions may be included in the construction
permit. The owner, project engineer, and developer should take steps prior to commis-
sioning to understand the entire permitting process and ensure all application require-
ments are met. Failure to submit all applications could result in delays in commissioning,
a violation of applicable regulations, as well as fines.
Prior to system commissioning, the developer, owner (permit holder), and system oper-
ator should have reviewed the construction permit to ensure its accuracy, and to fully
understand all conditions related to commissioning activities and operation of the CHP
system. Construction permits will normally include provisions for notifying the regulatory
agency of construction milestones and system start-up date. The permits will also include
specific activities that have to be completed as part of the commissioning program. The air
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