EPA Tightens Pollution Screws on Michigan and Minnesota Taconite Factories
Published Date: 1/2/2026
Rule
Summary
The EPA is setting new pollution limits for five taconite plants in Michigan and Minnesota to cut harmful nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide emissions. They’re also updating how these limits are calculated and making reporting easier by requiring electronic submissions. These changes kick in on February 2, 2026, helping protect the air while keeping the taconite industry on track.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Final NOX and SO2 Limits for Five Plants
The EPA finalized specific nitrogen oxide (NOX) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission limits for indurating furnaces at five named taconite facilities, effective February 2, 2026. NOX limits (rolling 30-day average) include: 3.0 lbs NOX/MMBtu for Tilden Line 1; 1.5 lbs NOX/MMBtu crossline for Hibbing Lines 1–3; 3.0 lbs NOX/MMBtu crossline for UTAC Lines 1–2; and 1.6 lbs NOX/MMBtu for Minorca. SO2 limits (rolling 30-day average) include: 189 lbs SO2/hr for Tilden Line 1; 247.8 lbs SO2/hr aggregate for Hibbing Lines 1–3; 68.2 lbs SO2/hr for Minorca; and 17.0 lbs SO2/hr aggregate for Northshore Furnaces 11 and 12.
Mandatory Electronic Reporting
The EPA is revising reporting provisions so required reports from the covered taconite facilities must be submitted to the Agency electronically, effective February 2, 2026. The rule text also states this action does not impose a Paperwork Reduction Act information collection burden.
Public Access to Emissions Data
The EPA states that reported compliance and emissions information will be made publicly accessible on the Agency's website (www.epa.gov/air-emissions-inventories) and is also available via the Freedom of Information Act. The Agency affirms these data and semiannual/quarterly reports can be accessed by the public for review.
No Small-Entity Economic Impact
Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act certification, the EPA states this action will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities and will not impose requirements on small businesses because none of the five affected taconite sources are owned by small entities. This certification is part of the rule effective February 2, 2026.
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