EPA Compliance – New Rules for Backup Generators

When relying on a backup generator as an extra power source, it’s important to stay up-to-date on all EPA compliance regulations. Last May, a new rule prohibiting the use of certain backup generators during emergency demand response (DR) dispatches went into effect, impacting several major markets across the country. In order to help keep our clients informed about generator news and legislation, we want to provide you with the details you need to know moving forward.

Woodstock Power Supplies Companies with Used Generators that Meet EPA Compliance Guidelines

Over a year ago, a federal appeals court ruled that certain backup generators would no longer have the usual 100-hour DR allowance that had been common practice in many facilities since 2013. As of May 1, 2016, any backup generator being used during an emergency DR dispatch must meet the guidelines of the EPA’s National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) and New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for reciprocal internal combustion engines.

These regulations are much stricter than previous requirements and can vary depending on your specific equipment. Depending on the engine manufacture date, the size of the generator, and even the fuel type, the requirements will change. If you’re not familiar with all the ins and outs of generators, these new regulations can be difficult to decipher, but we’re happy to work with you to determine if your current generator is EPA compliant.

EPA Compliance is a Must for Businesses

While it may be tempting to push off upgrading your equipment or purchasing a new backup generator, not complying with the new RICE NESHAP regulations could have a huge impact on your business. As part of the Clean Air Act, these regulations, if violated, could lead to large fines, the shut down of your operation or business, and even criminal enforcement actions.

Rather than risk such extreme measures, take the appropriate steps to comply now. Many generators can be upgraded to meet the new EPA compliance regulations which will allow you to continue using your generator for DR events. However, the older your generator, the more expensive and time-consuming these upgrades can be.

If you don’t have the time to wait or the money to spend on lengthy and expensive upgrades, there’s also the option of purchasing a used generator that already meets the updated EPA compliance regulations. Our used generators work as good as new and they only cost a fraction of the price that a brand new generator would. Plus, they come ready to operate so you don’t have to miss a day of work.

At Woodstock Power, we stay on top of all new generator regulations, ensuring that the products we purchase and sell meet government standards and exceed your expectations. If you have questions about EPA compliance and your generator, contact us today. We’re always here to answer your questions.

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