Emission norms for thermal power plants made stricter

For TPPs existing before 31.12.2003, PM standards are fixed at 100 mg per cubic metre

Emission standards for thermal power plants have been made stricter with particulate matter (PM) emissions being capped at lower levels, the environment ministry said on Tuesday.

Till now, PM standards for TPPs with power generation capacity of more than 210 Mw was 150 microgram per cubic metre. For TPPs having generation capacity of less than 210 MW, PM standards were 350 mg per cubic metre. These norms pertaining to PM have now been made stricter depending upon their age.

For TPPs existing before 31.12.2003 - PM standards fixed at 100 mg per cubic metre.

For TPPs existing between 31.12.2003 till 2016 - 50 mg per cubic metre.

For TPPs to be established after 1.1.2017 - 30 mg per cubic metre.

New standards pertaining to Sulphur Di Oxide, Nitrogen Oxide and Mercury will also help in control of mercury emission (at about 70-90) per cent.

These standards are based on the recommendation of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) after consultations with stakeholders.