After a four-year investigation, the MPCA found Al-Corn Clean Fuel LLC had uncontrolled emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter, and nitrogen oxide emissions in 2018-19. These uncontrolled emissions exceeded Al-Corn’s permit limits by 35-75%. In addition, the MPCA enforcement investigation found the company:
- Exceeded permitted limits on single and total hazardous air pollutants.
- Failed to submit accurate records and emission readings required by its permit. Readings on several pieces of control equipment were out of permitted ranges.
- Failed to apply for permit amendments prior to installing new equipment.
The company paid a $199,000 civil penalty to the MPCA and was required to submit plans to ensure testing and reporting deadlines are met, emissions testing does not exceed permitted limits, and staff are properly trained to meet permit requirements.
MPCA rules and regulations are designed to protect human health and the environment by limiting pollution emissions and discharges from facilities. When companies do not fully comply with regulatory requirements, the resulting pollution can be harmful to people and the environment.
When calculating penalties, the MPCA takes into account how seriously the violations affected or could have affected the environment, and whether they were first-time or repeat violations. The agency also attempts to recover the economic benefit the company gained by failing to comply with environmental laws in a timely manner.
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