Air Quality and Noise Services

SWCA air quality experts conduct air quality critical issues analyses to assess air permitting feasibility for proposed projects. These critical issues analyses are important during project development not only to identify any potential air permitting issues but to further define the air permitting requirements, scope of work and timeline for obtaining an air permit. SWCA reviews the proposed project equipment/design, calculates preliminary potential air emissions, reviews any applicable federal, state, or local air regulatory requirements, and conducted air screening modeling to assess compliance with ambient air standards. Air Quality Feasibility Studies are extremely beneficial during the development of a proposed project not only in identifying potential “fatal flaws” but to also better define the permitting approach. SWCA assists in the evaluation and development of renewable energy technologies that are no-or-low-carbon.

SWCA offers comprehensive air quality planning services to support compliance with CEQA, NEPA, FERC, and local requirements. Our experts conduct thorough air quality assessments and develop mitigation strategies for Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs) and Environmental Assessments (EAs), ensuring adherence to state and federal standards.

We specialize in optimizing energy projects under FERC regulations, facilitating smooth approval processes. SWCA also customizes air quality planning to meet local standards, promoting community health and sustainability. Our services enable clients to proactively address air quality challenges, ensuring regulatory compliance and enhancing project viability.

SWCA air quality experts prepare air quality construction, air quality operating, and Title V air permit applications for a wide range of industries including power generation, oil and gas, mining, chemical, and general manufacturing throughout the U.S. Our air permitting experience includes minor and major sources located in both attainment and nonattainment areas.

SWCA has extensive experience in minor source air construction permitting and major source Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) and Non-Attainment New Source Review (NNSR) permitting including performing Best Available Control Technology (BACT)/Lowest Achievable Emission Rate (LAER) analyses in support of these air permitting efforts. SWCA provides experience in the preparation of acid rain permits. SWCA works closely with our clients to secure air quality permits that provide maximum operational flexibility while minimizing compliance efforts.

SWCA’s modeling experts perform air dispersion modeling in support of air quality feasibility analyses as well as air permitting efforts. Air dispersion modeling can range from air toxics modeling to demonstrate compliance with state thresholds to modeling to demonstrate compliance with national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS).

SWCA performs air quality modeling using AERMOD to assess nearfield (<50km) impacts and CALPUFF to assess far field impacts in Federal Class I areas and on a case-by-case basis for certain near-field applications involving complex meteorological conditions. SWCA air dispersion modelers prepare air modeling protocols using the most recent EPA and state modeling guidance for submittal to regulatory agencies for approval.

SWCA supports clients in achieving and maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local air quality regulations. Our team manages ongoing compliance through services such as monthly recordkeeping, emission tracking, and compliance matrix development to ensure all regulatory tasks and timelines are met. We coordinate emissions testing, review stack test reports, and conduct compliance audits—either as-needed or annually in support of Title V Statements of Compliance.

We also provide comprehensive air quality reporting services, including preparation of quarterly, semi-annual, and annual reports required under permit conditions, Title V, New Source Performance Standards (NSPS), and National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP). Our experts prepare GHG reports through EPA’s e-GGRT system and submit annual and triennial emission inventory reports to applicable state and local agencies. SWCA also offers air quality compliance training to ensure internal teams understand and meet ongoing requirements.

SWCA offers noise monitoring using state-of-the-art equipment to measure ambient noise levels, assess project-related impacts, and verify compliance with regulatory thresholds. Our monitoring capabilities include the use of highly sensitive microphones, precision sound level meters, and advanced real-time data loggers to capture accurate noise levels. We employ remote data acquisition technology, allowing for continuous monitoring in real-time without the need for on-site personnel, ensuring comprehensive data collection even in challenging or restricted-access locations. Our advanced monitoring methodologies provide accurate and reliable data collection for informed decision-making and regulatory compliance.

Our impact assessment services encompass both operational and construction phases. We utilize SoundPLAN and other advanced modeling and mapping software to predict noise propagation, evaluate mitigation measures, and develop strategic solutions tailored to project-specific requirements. Our assessments account for a range of factors, including topography, existing noise sources, atmospheric conditions, and project-specific operations based on the new ISO 9613-2:2024 standard, to create highly accurate models. By integrating geospatial data and predictive analytics, we ensure precise noise impact forecasting.

Our team also conducts scenario-based simulations to inform initial project design, assess multiple mitigation strategies, optimizing solutions that balance compliance, cost effectiveness, and community impact. This comprehensive approach allows us to proactively address potential issues and support clients in achieving regulatory approval with confidence.