Case Study: Coal-burning power plants

Daily, the typical coal-burning power plant generates tremendous amounts of residual ash, called fly ash. There are beneficial reuses of fly ash if it is of a particular consistency and quality; but, most of it must be disposed of in monofills. If fly ash is left uncovered and becomes wind blown, it can become an environmental nightmare for surrounding communities. The EPA, in recent legislation, has imposed strict penalties on power plants who have failed to comply with new regulations it has handed down for the containment of wind-blown fly ash.

Wind blown fly ash has no favorite season or time of year. Over the years, power plants that have used up to six inches of soil to cover their fly ash, are finding that their onsite monofill’s are running out of space. Consequently, the list is getting smaller and smaller of outside landfills that are willing to accept fly ash.

Posi-Shell has become the favorite cover system of electric power plants around the US because it controls fugitive fly ash dust. In addition, Posi-Shell saves valuable airspace and operating expense because no longer do power plants need to transport and cover fly ash with 6 -12” of soil.

AES Cayuga, Duke Power, TVA and Dominion Power are just a few companies that recognize the benefits of Posi-Shell to help them maintain EPA compliance for controlling fly ash. Posi-Shell can be used for daily cover or long term cover. Other times it may be used on more of an interim basis prior to windy, dry seasons, etc.

Landfill Service Corporation has geared its products, equipment options, and qualified staff of technical personnel to be ready to respond to the various needs that a power authority may have. If the site requires normal daily cover, we can train the personnel at the plant to do the work. We will determine what equipment is right for the job. If it is a short-term project, our short-term equipment lease program may be the solution. For long-term projects, our long-term lease or our equipment purchase plan may be a better option.

If the challenges don't require regular use of the system, but are more interim oriented, LSC can locate a certified local contractor or train a contractor you currently outsource, to perform the work.