News Releases from Department of Health

HONOLULU – The Hawai‘i Department of Health Clean Air Branch (DOH) has issued Notices and Finding of Violation and Orders (NOVOs) against two companies. All those responsible have or had the option to request a hearing to contest their alleged violations and penalties.

Covanta Honolulu Resource Recovery Venture (H-Power) in Kapolei on O‘ahu, was cited for their cooling tower total dissolved solids exceedances and non-operation of their carbon feeder gas recirculation fan. The violations were self-reported, and the company was fined $19,700 and is currently negotiating a settlement with the DOH.

Sphere, LLC dba Pacific Aggregate in Waianae, O‘ahu, was cited for not conducting their diesel engine generator source performance test. The violation was determined from an inspection and record reviews. The company was fined $8,900 and is currently negotiating a settlement with the DOH.

The NOVOs are listed at:

https://health.hawaii.gov/cab/clean-air-branch/notice-and-finding-of-violation-downloads-pdf/

In general, fines are assessed to remove any economic benefit a company may have gained by not complying with their permit requirements. All fines are paid into a revolving fund that helps prevent or minimize damage to the environment.

The Clean Air Branch (CAB) protects the people and environment of Hawai‘i by monitoring air quality and regulating businesses that release pollutants into the air. The CAB reviews and approves air permits, evaluates and enforces state and federal air standards, conducts inspections, and investigates reported incidents related to outdoor air quality. Through the air permit process, the DOH ensures companies comply with state and federal emission standards to minimize air pollution impacts on the public.

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PDF: DOH cites H-Power and Pacific Aggregate for air permit violations