At their November 2021 meeting, the South Coast AQMD Governing Board adopted Rule 1109.1 which requires facilities to install emissions controls on equipment to reduce both carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide (NOx) pollution. NOx is a precursor to ozone (smog) and the rules are projected to reduce between 7.7 to 7.9 tons per year of NOx over the next 14 years. Approximately 75 percent of the emission reductions are anticipated to be achieved by 2027 with 90 percent being achieved by 2031.

As part of the rule, facilities are required to apply for a permit that limits emissions from combustion equipment used as part of refinery operations. Once implemented, the rule will help avoid 370 premature deaths and more than 6,200 asthma attacks. In addition, as a result of the rule, 213 jobs are projected to be added to the workforce every year.

In addition to petroleum refineries, Rule 1109.1 establishes NOx limits for asphalt plants, biofuel plants, hydrogen production plants and sulfuric acid plants. The rule covers 16 facilities and nearly 300 pieces of combustion equipment such as boilers, gas turbines and vapor incinerators in South Coast AQMD’s jurisdiction.

Three companion rules (429.1, 1304, and 2005) were also adopted or amended in November to support Rule 1109.1 by providing exemptions for emission increases during startup, shutdown, commissioning, and maintenance events, and for installation of add[1]on air pollution control equipment needed to meet the required NOx limits.