Sargent & Lundy services

The environmental requirements applicable to the power industry are constantly changing, and forward-looking strategic planning is essential to ensure timely and cost-effective compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations. One of the most important services Sargent & Lundy offers is an understanding of the environmental requirements applicable to power projects and the options available to satisfy those requirements most advantageously. We continuously monitor statutory and regulatory changes and federal and state court decisions to maintain current knowledge of the environmental laws and regulations that affect the power industry. We then combine that knowledge with a deep understanding of power plant design and operation to develop cost-effective compliance plans for individual plants and utility fleets.

On behalf of our clients, Sargent & Lundy has obtained every major type of permit and license necessary to site, construct, and operate a power plant or electric transmission line in the United States. The depth and breadth of our experience gives us a unique understanding of the concerns and requirements of federal, state, and local permitting agencies, which greatly enhances our efficiency in preparing permit applications. This unique perspective also greatly enhances our clients` timely acquisition of their permits.

Sargent & Lundy is at the forefront of identifying the emerging technologies and equipment options to address air toxics including mercury and heavy metals. We are very knowledgeable in permitting issues and requirements. We have conducted numerous studies to evaluate the feasibility and costs associated with compliance for existing individual plants, fleets, and proposed new generation.

As the U.S. EPA moves forward to establish CO2 emission standards for existing power plants, owners should begin assessments of viable alternatives that can be cost-effective for their generating assets. The regulatory action, based on article 111(d) from the Clean Air Act, stems from the June 2013 Presidential Memorandum to the EPA that set forth a timeline to establish these CO2 emission standards. EPA is considering supply-side options, which will directly reduce/avoid power plant CO2 emissions through energy efficiency at the source and will indirectly reduce/avoid power plant CO2 emissions by increasing the use of low- and non-emitting electric generation.

With over 120 years in the power business, Sargent & Lundy has a unique understanding of the ways that all aspects of water use are intimately intertwined. We provide innovative and cost-effective solutions for the full range of water treatment systems, from conceptual studies through detailed engineering and continuing support through construction and commissioning. With the proposed Steam Electric Power Effluent Guidelines (ELGs) that were published in 2013 and the proposed Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) regulations both scheduled to be finalized in 2014, management of water and waste water is rapidly becoming a critical component of power plant operations, in particular coal-fired plants. Our specialists understand all aspects of these proposed rules and how they will affect operations. We can provide innovative and effective solutions for all aspects of new plant design and improvements to existing plants

Sargent & Lundy can provide the complete range of environmental services needed throughout the life of a power project, or we can provide a specific answer to a particular compliance problem. Because we work exclusively in the electric power industry, we have extensive practical knowledge of the environmental issues related to power projects, and we always tailor our work to the specific needs of each project.

Sargent & Lundy performs due diligence reviews and environmental compliance audits for existing and proposed power projects. Our typical role in a due diligence study includes a review of applicable permit conditions and regulatory requirements, evaluation of compliance with current requirements, evaluation of potential future requirements and other environmental risks, and assessment of environmental liabilities. We also perform Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, and we design and interpret Phase II Environmental Site Assessments.

Sargent & Lundy provides comprehensive construction management and commissioning services for new and existing power stations and industrial power facilities. Clients engage us to manage both Sargent & Lundy-designed projects and installations designed by others.