ABSTRACT
Best available control technology (BACT) is defined as: An emission limitation based on the maximum degree of reduction for each pollutant taking into account energy, environmental, and economic impacts and other cost through application of production processes or available methods, systems, and techniques. This chapter reviews the important elements in this definition, and describes the approach that must be used to satisfy BACT requirements for a proposed new source or modification of an existing source. BACT is intended to include end-of-pipe controls, such as scrubbers or baghouses; process changes, such as changing from a solvent- to a water-based coating; and operations, such as inspection and maintenance of valves and flanges to reduce fugitive emissions. In addition to BACT, there are several other technology requirement terms that may be encountered in air quality permitting. All of them are conceptually similar to BACT — they define emission limits applicable to different source types, different pollutants, and/or different attainment status.
