What are MSAPR Regulations?
Multi-Sector Air Pollutants Regulations (or MSAPR for short) are federal regulations that span multiple industries and sectors iincluding oil and gas, cement, mining, chemicals and fertilizers, electricity, pulp and paper, and potash.
These regulations have been designed to set a standard for emission limits of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulphur (SO2) that are produced from gas-burning boilers and heaters, stationary gas-burning spark ignition engines, and cement manufacturing facilities.
When Is the Deadline for My First Compliance Report?
The first phase of regulations came into effect on June 17th, 2016. July 1st 2022, marks the day for submitting the first compliance report for pre-existing engines.
Who Is Overseeing MSAPR?
The Government of Canada created the MSAPR, under the authority of the 1999’s Canadian Environmental Protection Act. Enforcement activities include verifying compliance, investigating violations, measures to compel compliance such as ticketing and compliance orders, and even prosecution. MSAPR is administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada (or ECCC).
Why Does MSAPR Focus on NOx Emissions from Engines?
Gaseous fuel-fired engines currently produce more than half of Canada’s industrial NOx emissions. Additionally, these engines also produce approximately 85% of upstream oil and gas, and 20% of pipeline NOx emissions.
How Much Does MSAPR Compliance Cost?
The regulation is focused on ensuring that NOx emissions do not exceed environmental performance limits, and so depending on the size of your engine fleet, there may be significant costs associated with regular testing, regulatory reporting, and potential equipment upgrades.
What Are the Key Compliance Dates I Need to Know?
Beginning on December 31st, 2021, there are several upcoming dates of importance related to MSAPR compliance regulations and testing. They are as follows:
- December 31, 2021 – Testing complete
- July 1, 2022 – Schedule 10 report due on 2021 testing
- Dec 31, 2022 – Tests are due annually on this day (and every concurrent December 31);
Corresponding reports are due to be filed by the following July 1st
- January 2026 – Phase 2 NOx limits start in full effect