Implementation of the New Source Review (NSR) Program for Particulate Matter Less Than 2.5 Micrometers (PM2.5); Final Rule To Repeal Grandfather Provision

The EPA is issuing a final rule that repeals the "grandfather" provision for particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometers (PM<INF>2.5</INF>) under the Federal Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) permit program, which is administered by EPA in states that lack a PSD permit program in their approved state implementation plan (SIP). The grandfather provision allowed certain facilities under certain circumstances to satisfy the PSD permit program requirements for PM<INF>2.5</INF> by meeting the requirements for controlling particulate matter less than 10 micrometers (PM<INF>10</INF>) and analyzing impacts on PM<INF>10</INF> air quality as a surrogate approach based on an EPA policy known as the "1997 PM<INF>10</INF> Surrogate Policy." In its February 11, 2010, notice of proposed rulemaking, EPA also proposed to end early the 1997 PM<INF>10</INF> Surrogate Policy in EPA-approved state PSD programs during the remainder of the SIP development period, which ends on May 16, 2011. EPA is taking no final action on that aspect of the proposal.