More About IPPC

IPPC Applications

Operators of eligible installations have to apply for a permit from the Regulator. The regulator will be the Environment Agency or Local Authority depending on whether permitting is required under IPPC or LAIPPC. The permit is required prior to operation of a new installation, or to keep running an existing installation. Remember that authorisation is also required to operate an installation under LAPPC (air pollution only, not IPPC).

Applying for a permit involves the following:

Consideration of all environmental impacts associated with the installation when preparing the application. This involves a through review of site activities and procedures as well as providing justification in cases where activities do not conform to BAT.
Agreement on an improvement programme consisting of ongoing improvements where relevant to improve environmental performance.
Submission of the application within the specific time 'window' as determined by the industry sector.
Advertisement of the application in specific publications.

The Regulator will:

Place a copy of the application will be placed on a public register, held in the local office of the Environment Agency and the Local Authority, which the public is free to view.
Undertake a public consultation, as well as consultation with a number of Statutory Consultees.

Once the consultation period is over the Regulator considers all the representations reviewed and will either grant the permit subject to conditions or reject the application. If an operator is dissatisfied with a decision made regarding an application, an appeal to the Secretary of State can be made.

Remember that for a permit to be granted the Regulator must ensure that all of the principle requirements of IPPC will be met.

After Application

Obtaining a permit is the first step in operating the installation within the regulatory requirements. Once a permit has been granted, operators have significant responsibilities to operate within the specific requirement of the permit and to demonstrate that emission do not fall outside the limits specified by the permit and that reports are submitted to the regulators (EA or LA) at the times agreed. This means operators will have to:

Monitor emissions.
Supply the Regulator with data required to check compliance with the permit.
Undertake ongoing improvements as agreed within the site improvement plan.
Ensure compliance with any conditions as set by the Regulator.

In addition the Regulator has to undertake independent monitoring and inspections of the installation to check compliance with the set emission limits.

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