EPA raises concerns about state’s handling of toxic coal ash, GA. Power not meeting federal standards 

The federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has raised concerns about the storage of toxic coal ash by Georgia Power, stating that the state may be allowing the company to store coal ash in ways that are “less protective” than federal standards require. Coal ash contains toxic metals like lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic, which can pose serious health risks and contaminate water and soil if mishandled.

The EPA’s concerns were detailed in a letter dated February 13, addressed to the director of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD). The letter specifically focuses on a closure permit issued by EPD in November for an ash pond at Plant Hammond, a coal-fired power station outside Rome that was closed in 2019. The permit outlines plans for capping the ash pond with a heavy-duty plastic cover, synthetic drainage material, soil, and vegetation, with future installation of solar panels. However, the pond lacks a bottom liner, and toxic ash will remain in contact with groundwater permanently.

The EPA believes that the closure plans for Ash Pond 3 at Plant Hammond fall short of federal requirements, particularly in preventing liquids from coming into contact with the waste to the “maximum extent feasible.” The agency also expressed concerns about deficiencies in the groundwater monitoring network and potential escapes of contaminants through limestone voids beneath the pond.

Environmental groups have long argued that Georgia Power’s plans for coal ash disposal are inadequate, and the EPA’s letter adds weight to those concerns. The EPA has suggested a meeting with Georgia environmental officials to discuss the matter further. The Georgia EPD is expected to provide a response to the EPA’s concerns.