Colorado Refinery Study

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) Air Pollution Control Division is responsible for protecting the health and well-being of Colorado citizens by regulating emission sources. Petroleum refineries are a major emissions source and pose health concerns when located near communities. CDPHE seeks to improve and protect the air quality in Colorado by developing and implementing cost-effective efficient air pollution control measures for refineries that are consistent with state and federal requirements.

ERG is supporting CDPHE in identifying measures to reduce air pollution impacts from petroleum refinery operations in Colorado in several ways. For example, we are assessing the air quality impacts of refinery operations in Colorado by analyzing air permits, air monitoring data, and emissions data. We are also investigating what aspects of regulatory frameworks adopted by the federal government and other states to control air pollution from petroleum refineries may be relevant to Colorado. In addition, we are identifying best practices and technologies for minimizing air emissions from petroleum refineries, as well as additional actions for reducing refinery emissions.