Residents in Burlington are being encouraged to review and comment on a proposed air quality construction permit for the Burlington Generating Station.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources has opened a public comment period for a draft permit submitted by IPL, which operates the Burlington Generating Station on Sullivan Slough Road. The company is requesting approval to update the power plant to help meet growing electricity demand in the region.
As part of the proposal, IPL plans to install five new natural gas–fired engines capable of producing up to 94 megawatts of electricity. To make room for the new equipment, four older turbines and their starter engines would be shut down and removed.
The project also includes several support upgrades, such as emergency-use diesel-powered backup engines, on-site diesel fuel storage tanks, natural gas heaters for building heat, and new natural gas piping. Additional safety equipment and increased truck traffic on facility roads are also anticipated.
The DNR says its permitting process is designed to ensure facilities meet state and federal air quality standards, and public input is an important part of that review.
A virtual public hearing is scheduled for March 9, from 12 PM to 2 PM CST. To register for the public hearing, use the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ed7QjhaAQ26vso5ueSroHw. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting virtually or by phone.
Public comments will be accepted until March 9th, and all comments will be considered before the permit is finalized.