FGD is a process used to remove sulfur dioxide from the flue gas produced by burning fossil fuels such as coal or oil.
| Photo Credit:
Danicek
Are FGDs (Flue Gas Desulfurization) meant to control sulfur dioxide emissions from coal-fired thermal power plants still relevant is the debate that is taking place between the Ministries of Environment and Power here.
The Ministries are holding discussions with stakeholders and among themselves on whether the mandate should continue. A meeting to discuss the issue was held between the two Ministries on April 7, according to sources. However, both the Ministries and the stakeholders remained tightlipped about the flow of the meeting.
FGD is a process used to remove sulfur dioxide (SO2) from the flue gas produced by burning fossil fuels such as coal or oil. This has been mandated by The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). With constant upgradation of technology, setting up an FGD in the power plant is losing relevance; besides, it is an added cost for the producers, an industry official said.
In India, FGD is mandatory for coal-fired thermal power plants to control SO2 emissions and meet emission norms. MoEF&CC has prescribed timelines for FGD installation based on the plant’s capacity and installation date. For plants installed before December 31, 2016, the deadline is December 2025, while for plants installed after January 1, 2017, it’s December 2026.
Scientific efficacy
Although the industry has been supportive till now, they have argued that the same should be backed with scientific efficacy, particularly in the Indian context, especially regarding low sulfur (0.5 per cent) content domestic coal. The industry has been raising concerns and arguing that “one size fits all” policy does not work as each plant could vary dependent on the location, regional climate, surrounding population density and plant specific characteristics. Besides, there is an issue of cost benefit efficacy of FGD.
In fact, studies conducted by various institutions like IIT Delhi , CSIR-NEERI (who were asked by NITI Aayog) and National Institute of Advanced Studies Bengaluru, have recommended against FGD installation in Indian thermal power plants citing low sulfur coal, National Ambient Air Quality Standards compliance, and minimal impact on PM reduction.
According to those associated with the sector, a more targeted strategy focussing on high efficiency electrostatic precipitators for particulate matter control should be prioritised to achieve air quality improvements while minimising unintended consequences.
Published on April 13, 2025
