The New State-of-the-Art (SOTA) standards from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) bring significant changes for facilities operating compression ignition reciprocating internal combustion engines (CI RICE) and spark ignition reciprocating internal combustion engines (SI RICE). These revised requirements introduce lower emission caps, stricter control technology requirements, and tighter monitoring protocols. Facilities relying on older engines or operating without advanced emissions controls may find their current air permits invalid under the revised standards.
For CI RICE—such as diesel-fueled generators, compressors, and pumps—the new standards impose stricter limits on pollutants like nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide. Meeting these updated thresholds may require upgrading to newer technologies. Some units might need oxidation catalysts or diesel particulate filters, while others may require selective catalytic reduction systems to effectively control nitrogen oxide emissions. Identifying appropriate control strategies begins with a thorough evaluation of existing equipment.
The revised requirements also cover SI RICE units, including natural gas-fired generators and biogas-fueled engines. Because these engines emit different pollutants, the SOTA standards target reductions in volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and methane. To meet these new caps, facilities may need to retrofit engines with non-selective catalytic reduction systems or three-way catalysts. However, without a detailed assessment of how the current equipment performs, it is difficult to determine whether the new standards can be met or if a complete upgrade is necessary.
A qualified NJ air permit consultant can support facilities in making those assessments. They can review engine performance data, match it against the revised SOTA thresholds, and recommend cost-effective compliance strategies. A consultant can help avoid unnecessary costs by identifying the most efficient upgrade or retrofit solutions.
NJDEP permit compliance now depends on how well facilities adapt to these new SOTA guidelines. With expert support, facilities can avoid delays in permit renewals, reduce the risk of noncompliance, and develop long-term permitting strategies that align with regulatory requirements. A professional review can clarify which engines meet current standards and which need immediate attention.
Read this infographic from Lockatong Engineering to learn more about the updated SOTA standards.
