Carbon monoxide exceedance at DYEC

Whitby, Ontario – On Saturday, May 4, a carbon monoxide (CO) spike led to an exceedance of the four-hour rolling average limit at the Durham York Energy Centre (DYEC). The limit is set at 40 mg/Rm³ (milligrams per reference cubic metre). The CO levels were 45 mg/Rm³. CO is monitored as an operational parameter indicating combustion performance at the facility. All other emissions remain within compliance limits.

The exceedance was caused by a fuel overfeed, leading the combustion air fans to trip, which extended the duration of the CO spike and lead to the four hour-rolling average exceedance. A feed stop was initiated to regain normal operations and the facility is performing within normal operating requirements.

In accordance with regulations, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) Spills Action Centre was informed of the exceedance on Saturday, May 4.

The MECP has imposed strict limits on the air emissions for the DYEC, ensuring that this facility will operate in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. Current emissions monitoring data is posted online at the project website DurhamYorkWaste.ca and on a large electronic board outside of the visitor’s centre. Ambient Air reports, as well as a comprehensive overview of the facility and answers to frequently asked questions are available online.

The Durham York Energy Centre, located in Courtice, is Durham Region’s primary long-term disposal option for waste and only processes the household waste remaining after Durham and York Regions’ aggressive composting, recycling and reuse programs. Both regions are leaders in waste diversion with diversion rates consistently above 50 per cent. For more information on the Durham York Energy Centre, visit DurhamYorkWaste.ca, call 1-800-667-5671, or email info@DurhamYorkWaste.ca.

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