Pierre River Mine Project

AIR ERCB SIRS 40 – 45
Question No. 43
Section 6.1
Request Volume 1, Section 11.1, Page 11-24, Supplemental Information Responses.
Shell states, “Shell is still reviewing options for pollution control equipment for
the AER cogeneration unit. Details of the air quality and monitoring control
system will be finalized when pollution control equipment has been selected.”
43a Explain how Shell intends to monitor the control efficiencies of the finalized
pollution control equipment to achieve the pollution control performance targets.
i. What is the basis for setting pollution control performance targets?
Response 43a As stated in the response to SIR 230a in the May 2009 Pierre River Mine,
Supplemental Information, Volume 1, Shell is still reviewing options for
pollution control equipment for the AER cogeneration unit. Details of the air
quality and monitoring control system will be finalized once the pollution control
equipment has been selected and the regulatory requirements are known. Stack
monitoring could be used to confirm that emissions meet expectations, given the
control efficiencies chosen.
The proposed performance targets were based on realistic control efficiencies for
pollution control equipment that could integrate with an AER cogeneration
system. These performance targets for pollution control equipment efficiencies
will guide the selection of equipment during the detailed design stage of the
project.
Request 43b Provide detailed characterization of the asphaltene feedstock e.g. S, N, Hg, Cr,
etc.
Response 43b Shell is still at an early stage in the assessment of the AER technology, and
certain elements, including the feedstock, are considered confidential.
Request 43c What are the expected products and by-products from the combustion of this
asphaltene feedstock?
Response 43c As discussed in EIA, Volume 2, Section 8.3, the products of the asphaltene-fired
cogeneration plant are steam and electrical power. The by-products of this
process are bottom and fly ash, flue gas desulphurization (FGD) solids, and flue
gas. Ash and FGD solids would be collected and disposed of on site in a Class II
landfill. Flue gas would be treated by pollution control equipment.
April 2010 Shell Canada Limited 6-21
CR029