Pittsburgh, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will hold a public meeting on Thursday, March 19, 2026, and a public hearing on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, regarding a proposed air quality plan approval for Shell Chemical Appalachia, LLC, at the Shell Polymers Monaca facility in Potter and Center townships, Beaver County. Both the public meeting and the public hearing will begin at 6:00 PM, and both will be held at the Penn State Beaver Auditorium, 100 University Drive, Monaca, PA 15061.
DEP is proposing to issue Air Quality Plan Approval PA-04-00740D (Pennsylvania Bulletin Notice, Pages 99/1179-103/1183), which would authorize updates and improvements to certain air pollution control systems and related equipment at the facility. The proposal includes:
- Updates to flare systems to meet newer federal air quality standards.
- Permanent upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant to improve the removal of oils, grease, and air pollutants.
- Administrative updates to reflect the facility’s final construction and operating configuration.
DEP has reviewed the proposed changes to ensure they meet state and federal air quality requirements. That review included evaluating expected emissions, pollution controls, and potential impacts on air quality and public health. Based on DEP’s technical review, the proposed changes meet applicable standards.
DEP is providing opportunities for the public to learn more and offer comments in person. Both will take place at Penn State Beaver Auditorium, 100 University Drive, Monaca, PA 15061.
The public meeting will be held on Thursday, March 19, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM to provide background information on the permit application and allow for questions and answers between the public and DEP. No formal testimony will be taken during this session.
A public hearing will be held on Tuesday, April 7, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, during which DEP will receive formal comments. The session is for testimony-taking only – no questions may be asked by attendees, and no answers may be given by DEP. Individuals and organizations may present oral testimony. Each speaker will be limited to three (3) minutes.
DEP asks that two (2) written copies of oral testimony be provided at the hearing. Organizations should designate one representative to speak on their behalf.
Anyone wishing to reserve a time to speak at the hearing is asked to contact Emily Green at emgreen@pa.gov or 412-442-4042 at least 24 hours in advance. Individuals who do not register in advance may also speak at the hearing.
Written comments will also be accepted within 10 days of the hearing (through Friday, April 17), and should be sent via email to Alexander Sandy at asandy@pa.gov or via postal mail to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Air Quality Program, 400 Waterfront Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. All comments, whether delivered orally during the virtual hearing or submitted in writing, will carry equal weight and consideration with DEP.
DEP will respond to any questions or concerns raised during the hearing through a comment response document prepared at a later date. Comments must identify Plan Approval PA-04-00740D and include the commenter’s name, address, and a clear statement of concern.
All documents related to the proposed permit are available for public review at DEP’s Southwest Regional Office, 400 Waterfront Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM, by appointment. Appointments may be scheduled online or by calling 412-442-4000. Documents are also available online at www.dep.pa.gov/Shell.
Individuals who require accommodation to participate in the meeting or hearing should contact Emily Green. TDD users may contact the Pennsylvania Hamilton Relay Service at 800-654-5984.
DEP encourages residents, community members, and stakeholders to attend the meeting, participate in the hearing, and submit comments.
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