More energy, less mercury
Here’s what Big Stone II is doing to limit mercury emissions.
- Big Stone II would meet the requirements of the 2006 Minnesota Mercury Emissions Reduction Act, which applies to large existing power plants, by using technology most likely to achieve a 90% mercury removal goal by 2015. This act is considered to be one of the most stringent of its kind in the nation.
- Big Stone Plant currently emits 189 pounds of mercury each year. By committing to the 90% removal goal, we estimate emissions from both plants will be reduced to 70 to 90 pounds.
Mercury emissions in the U.S. have decreased significantly.
Since 1970, industrial use of mercury has decreased by 80%. Because of improved pollution-control technologies, mercury emissions from power plants declined 38% between 1955 and 1999 (sources: U.S. Geological Survey Circular, June 14, 2000; EPA, December 2004).
Mercury is a naturally occurring element.
Mercury is released into the environment through both human activity and natural processes. About 55% of the mercury worldwide is produced from runoff and natural leaching, forest fires, and volcanic activity.
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Utilities lead research efforts to control mercury.
- Although research does not establish a direct link between utility mercury emissions and harmful mercury levels in fish, the energy industry continues ongoing research aimed at clarifying the issue and protecting both human health and the environment.
- Regional utilities have combined their efforts with prominent research organizations to test different technologies in both North Dakota and Minnesota.
- Research shows that mercury can be removed, but more studies over longer periods of time are required to perfect an effective and affordable commercially sized technology. The most promising technologies will be selected for further testing in large-scale applications.
For more information, contact:
Dan Sharp, Manager, Communications . 701-426-3650
Steve Schultz, Manager, External Affairs . 218-770-9111
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