Procedures for the Integration of Complete Year Texas Weather Data Files for eCalc-Emissions Reduction Calculator

Abstract

Four areas in Texas, involving 16 counties, have been designated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as non-attainment areas because ozone levels exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) maximum allowable limits. These areas face severe sanctions if attainment is not reached by 2009. Four additional areas in the state, involving 25 counties, are also approaching national ozone limits (i.e., affected areas). In 2001, the Texas State Legislature formulated and passed the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP) to reduce ozone levels by encouraging the reduction of emissions of NOx by sources that are currently not regulated by the state. In this legislation, for the first time, energy efficiency and renewable energy (EE/RE) projects were considered for their potential to reduce air pollution. One fundamental consideration in the evaluation of EE/RE projects is the assembly of measured weather data for the affected counties in Texas. Such data are required for the weather normalization needed to a base year for EE/RE projects. This paper describes the procedures that have been followed to assemble annual files of hourly weather data that are required to assess the emission reductions due to the electricity savings from the implementation of any energy efficient or renewable energy projects.