143-215.1A. Closed-loop groundwater remediation systems allowed.

(a) The phrase "closed-loop groundwater remediation system" means a system and attendant processes for cleaning up contaminated groundwater by pumping groundwater, treating the groundwater to reduce the concentration of or remove contaminants, and reintroducing the treated water beneath the surface so that the treated groundwater will be recaptured by the system.

(b) The Secretary may issue a permit for the siting, construction, and operation of a closed-loop groundwater remediation system. Permits shall be issued in accordance with G.S. 143-215.1 and applicable rules of the Commission. A permit issued under this section constitutes prior permission under G.S. 87-88.

(c) A permit for a closed-loop groundwater remediation system shall specify the location at which groundwater is to be reintroduced and shall specify design, construction, operation, and closure requirements for the closed-loop groundwater remediation system necessary to ensure that the treated groundwater will be captured by the contaminant and removal system that extracts the groundwater for treatment. The Secretary may impose any additional permit conditions or limitations necessary to:

(1) Achieve efficient, effective groundwater remediation.

(2) Minimize the possibility of spills or other releases from the closed-loop groundwater remediation system.

(3) Specify or limit the distance between the point at which contaminated groundwater is extracted and the point at which treated groundwater is reintroduced.

(4) Specify the minimum or maximum gradients between the point at which contaminated groundwater is extracted and the point at which treated groundwater is reintroduced.

(5) Specify or limit the chemical, physical, or biological treatment processes that may be used.

(6) Protect the environment or public health.

(d) The Commission may adopt rules to implement this section.