Regulation of the thermal component of aqueous effluent discharges into U.S. waters from industrial point sources by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is authorized according to the provisions of the Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 (Public Law 92#x2013;500). Recent (1977) amendments to the Law have little effect on EPA#x2019;s thermal regulation strategy.Technology-based limitations on the temperature at which an effluent may be discharged have been established for certain industrial categories. Specific effluent limitations for the Beet Sugar Industry, Cement Manufacturing Industry, and Steam Electric Power Generation Industry are discussed. State Water Quality Standards also limit heated discharges in certain instances. The mechanism is outlined for administering, monitoring and enforcing compliance with these limitations through the U.S. National discharge permit system.Additionally, Section 316 of Public Law 92#x2013;500, defines circumstances whereby thermal discharges, and related activities, are specifically examined. Section 316(a) allows for the establishment of alternate thermal limitations on a case-by-case basis, whereas Section 316(b) requires that cooling water intake structures be constructed and operated to minimize adverse environmental impact. Demonstrations presented by industry to satisfy this portion of the Law are discussed, and a Regional perspective of Section 316 issues is presented.
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