Site Specific Standards Applications

Algoma Steel has announced its decision to invest CDN $700 million in the transition to electric arc steelmaking. Construction of two state-of-the-art electric arc furnaces or “EAF”s is now underway to replace its existing basic oxygen steelmaking operations and result in the elimination of cokemaking.  Once the facility comes online in 2024, Algoma will operate in a hybrid mode, transitioning away from basic oxygen steelmaking as more electric power becomes available.

While the transformation is expected to reduce Algoma’s carbon emissions by up to 70% and significantly shrink Algoma’s environmental footprint including improvements to air, water, waste, and noise, Site Specific Standards will be required to manage compliance over the transition period.  Once the facility has fully transitioned to EAF steelmaking, Algoma expects it will meet Ontario Regulation 419/05 air standards and will no longer require Site Specific Standards for any compound.

The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) works within the framework of Ontario Regulation 419/05 to regulate air quality in communities. When standards are updated the MECP recognizes that some facilities may become non-compliant and that there may be technical challenges and significant investment required to further reduce emissions.

Site-specific Standards (SSS) provide a compliance approach for existing facilities when new limits are introduced and allow for technologies and best operational practices to be implemented over time to reduce emissions of those specific compounds.

Algoma has applied for an amendment to its existing SSS for benzene, benzo(a)pyrene, and particulate matter. Algoma has also requested a new SSS for sulphur dioxide (SO2) due to the new Ontario Regulation 419/05 standards for SO2 that will come into effect in July 2023.

Community engagement is an important part of the SSS application process. Algoma Steel hosted a Community Open House on February 28, 2022, where we solicited feedback which was subsequently included in our application. The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks will be posting Algoma’s application on the EBR website for further community feedback.

To support further understanding and awareness of Algoma’s application, we have prepared the following summary documents regarding our operations and planned emission reduction initiatives.