Study Recommendation: Roll back the 2015 mandate requiring all Indian coal-fired plants to install Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems.
Current Mandate: In 2015, the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) mandated FGD installation in all 537 coal-fired plants to reduce sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions, with penalties for non-compliance.
High Costs: FGD installation costs ₹1.2 crore per MW, creating a financial burden for India’s large coal capacity.
Low Sulphur Content: 92% of Indian coal has low sulphur content (0.3%-0.5%), making FGD less crucial.
Minimal Acid Rain Threat: Studies indicate acid rain is not a significant issue in India, reducing the need for widespread SO₂ control.
Climate Impact Concerns: FGD processes are energy-intensive, increasing CO₂ emissions and potentially worsening climate change due to the removal of SO₂’s temporary cooling effect.
Poor Compliance: Despite extended deadlines, only 8% of plants have installed FGD, with many still lacking orders.
Alternative Approach: The study suggests focusing on particulate matter (PM) pollution using electrostatic precipitators (ESP), which are more cost-effective and can significantly reduce PM.
Selective FGD Implementation: FGD systems should be applied only to plants using imported or high-sulphur coal.
Environmental Concerns: FGD increases power and freshwater consumption, leading to additional CO2 emissions, counteracting its benefits.
