Ministry of Environment Exempts 78% of Coal Power Plants From Implementing FGD Systems

What does Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) entail?

FGD systems are technologies utilized in coal-fired thermal power plants to eliminate SO₂ from exhaust flue gases prior to their discharge into the atmosphere.

Mechanism: The prevalent FGD technique utilizes a wet scrubber that interacts with a limestone slurry to transform SO₂ into gypsum.

Goal: Assists in decreasing acid rain, secondary particulates, and enhances air quality in the environment.

Classification of Thermal Power Stations (TPS)

Category A: Accounts for approximately 11% of India’s 600 TPP units and is required to implement FGD systems by December 30, 2027.

These are found within a 10 km radius of the National Capital Region or are urban areas with a population of at least one million (2011 Census).

Category B: Contains an additional 11% of TPP units situated close to Critically Polluted Areas (CPAs) or Non-Attainment Cities (NACs).

The installation of FGD requires approval from the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC).

Due date: December 30, 2028, if necessary.

Category C: This includes the other 78% of TPP units. They are completely exempt from implementing FGD systems and are primarily situated in areas away from pollution hotspots.

Global Illustrations

Nations such as China and the United States have implemented mandatory FGDs in coal-fired power plants.

China accomplished more than 95% efficiency in SO₂ removal by deploying FGD systems across the country.

Worries

Health Effects: SO₂ contributes to the formation of PM2.5, which can infiltrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Long-term exposure is associated with asthma, cardiovascular issues, and early mortality.

As reported by the Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health 2022, deaths linked to pollution in India surpassed 2.3 million each year.

Breach of the Polluter Pays Principle: Allowing TPPs to avoid installing FGDs contravenes the environmental standard stating that those who pollute must shoulder the expenses of pollution control.

Diminishes Pollution Goals: This decision weakens India’s Clean Air Programme and commitments made at COP26.

What is involved in Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD)?

FGD systems are technologies used in coal-fired thermal power plants to remove SO₂ from flue gas emissions before they are released into the atmosphere.

Mechanism: The common FGD method employs a wet scrubber that interacts with a limestone slurry to convert SO₂ into gypsum.

Objective: Helps reduce acid rain, secondary particulates, and improves environmental air quality.

(PET)

Category A: Represents about 11% of India’s 600 TPP units and must install FGD systems by December 30, 2027.

These are located within a 10 km area of the National Capital Region or are city regions with a population of no less than one million (2011 Census).

Category B: Includes an extra 11% of TPP units located near Critically Polluted Areas (CPAs) or Non-Attainment Cities (NACs).

The installation of FGD needs authorization from the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC).

Deadline: December 30, 2028, if required.

Category C: This encompasses the remaining 78% of TPP units. They are entirely free from the obligation to install FGD systems and are mostly located in regions distant from pollution hotspots.

Worldwide Illustrations

Countries like China and the United States have instituted obligatory FGDs in coal-powered plants.

China achieved over 95% efficiency in SO₂ removal by implementing FGD systems nationwide.

Concerns

Health Impacts: SO₂ plays a role in the creation of PM2.5, which can penetrate the lungs and reach the bloodstream. Prolonged exposure is linked to asthma, heart problems, and premature death.

According to the Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health 2022, pollution-related deaths in India exceeded 2.3 million annually.

Violation of the Polluter Pays Principle: Permitting TPPs to bypass the installation of FGDs breaches the environmental norm that mandates those who pollute bear the costs of pollution.