Environment Ministry defends revised framework for thermal plants to meet SO2 emission norms
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Background
- SO2 is a harmful gas produced from coal combustion, contributing to air pollution and the formation of secondary pollutants.
- • In 2015, India introduced SO2 emission norms for coal and lignite plants, requiring the installation of flue gas desulphurization (FGD) systems.
- • Due to high costs and operational challenges, timelines for compliance have been extended multiple times.
- • Now, the Plants retiring before December 2030 are exempt if they file an undertaking.
Revised Framework Highlights:
Many coal-based plants are exempted from mandatory FGD retrofitting.
Classification of plants:
- Category A: Within 10 km of Delhi-NCR or cities with >1 million population; compliance by Dec 2027.
- Category B: Within 10 km of critically polluted areas; assessed case-by-case.
- Category C: Others; largely exempted.
Cost & Impact:
- An estimated ₹2.54 lakh crore is needed for full retrofitting.
- Plants continuing beyond 2030 without compliance will pay ₹0.40 per unit of electricity generated as compensation.
- Scientific review found no major public health risk from SO2 under current conditions, citing limited impact on PM2.5 levels.
Implications
- Environmental Impact: Possible delay in achieving cleaner air standards, raising concerns among environmentalists.
- Economic Relief: Reduces financial burden on power producers and ensures energy security.
- Policy Balance: Reflects a trade-off between sustainability goals and economic feasibility.
- Future Concerns: May invite criticism for weakening pollution control norms and affect India’s climate commitments.
