Nevada Mercury Control Program (NMCP)

The Nevada Mercury Control Program (NMCP) is a State regulatory program that requires mercury emissions controls on thermal units located at precious metal mines. The NMCP was adopted March 8, 2006 and made effective May 4, 2006. The Program achieves mercury reduction via add-on control technologies. The NMCP requires that all precious metal processing facilities with SIC codes “1041” or “1044” be reviewed for applicability under the NMCP. At this time, the NMCP regulations focus on the potential for mercury emissions from thermal processing units only.

At the core of the NMCP is "NvMACT." NvMACT is the Maximum Achievable Control Technology designated by the NDEP in accordance with NAC 445B.3677. Pursuant to NAC 445B.3625, owners or operators that operate, construct or modify a thermal unit that emits mercury must apply for, and obtain, a Mercury Operating Permit to Construct (Mercury OPTC) to apply the NvMACT. Construction of a new or modified thermal unit that emits mercury requires a permit before construction begins.

The NMCP regulatory authority is found in NAC 445B.3611 to NAC 445B.3689

What's New

The NMCP now has a home under the Bureau of Air Quality Planning with a new website. The website is designed to provide for public participation and transparency. The website contains all submitted Program applications, emissions source tests, public notice events, designations, permit issuances, reported annual emissions and additional Program background material. A new interactive mapping application locates mines regulated by the NMCP.