Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Massachusetts; Emission Banking, Trading, and Averaging

EPA is proposing the approval of a State Implementation Plan (SIP) revision submitted by the State of Massachusetts. This revision establishes a program of emission reduction credit (ERC) banking and trading whereby companies who reduce emissions below the level required by State and federal regulation can ``bank'' the surplus reductions for use at a later date or for transfer to another party. This program has been adopted as a voluntary economic incentive program pursuant to EPA's interim guidance on Economic Incentive Programs. The intended effect of this action is to facilitate cost-effective compliance with other emission reduction requirements required by the Massachusetts SIP. This action is being taken under the Clean Air Act.

Agency Contact: Steven A. Rapp, (617) 565-9024.