Protecting Delaware City's Air Quality — In Real Time
Ordered by Delaware DNREC, this public monitoring system provides continuous fence-line VOC readings from sensors stationed around the Delaware City Refinery. Free access for all community members.
Why This System Exists
Community Transparency After a Major Release
On November 26–27, 2025, a malfunction at the Delaware City Refinery released approximately 108.75 tons of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — primarily butane — into the surrounding community. In response, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) issued Consent Order 2025-A-0038, requiring Delaware City Refining Company to install and maintain a real-time fence-line monitoring system.
This platform is the public-facing component of that system. It provides 24/7 access to live air quality data so residents, regulators, and community organizations can independently verify conditions around the facility.
108.75 tons
VOCs released
Nov 26–27, 2025
Incident dates
2025-A-0038
DNREC Consent Order
360°
Perimeter coverage
How It Works
Continuous Monitoring, From Sensor to Screen
Continuous Monitoring
Five sensor stations positioned around the refinery perimeter measure non-methane hydrocarbon (NMHC) levels every 5 minutes, 24 hours a day.
Data Analysis
Readings are processed with 5-minute and 1-hour averaging periods. Meteorological data including wind speed and direction is captured alongside each reading.
Public Alerts
When VOC levels exceed 730 ppb, the system automatically sends email alerts to subscribers. Daily, weekly, and monthly reports are generated for the public record.
Features
What You Get With a Free Account
Stay Informed
Notifications That Matter
Choose which alerts you receive. All notifications are delivered by email.
VOC Exceedance
Immediate alert when any station reads above 730 ppb NMHC — the regulatory action threshold.
Instrument Outage
Get notified when a sensor station goes offline or stops reporting, so you know if there's a gap in coverage.
Report Available
Notification when a new daily, weekly, or monthly report has been generated and is ready for download.
Stay Informed About Your Air Quality
Create a free account to access live sensor data, set up personalized alerts, and download automated reports.
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