NITI Aayog Advises Halt on Sulphur Gear
ECONOMY & POLICY

NITI Aayog Advises Halt on Sulphur Gear

NITI Aayog has proposed that Indian power plants pause the installation of sulphur-reducing equipment, like flue gas desulfurization (FGD) units, used to lower sulphur dioxide (SO?) emissions. The advisory, targeting coal-fired power plants, suggests a temporary halt as part of a broader evaluation of economic and environmental impacts. This recommendation aligns with concerns about the substantial costs of implementing FGD technology, which could impact the financial viability of many coal plants.

Given that coal power generation remains crucial to India's energy mix, the pause proposal allows NITI Aayog to reassess the balance between emissions control and energy affordability. According to current regulations, power plants in India are required to adopt FGD technology to curb emissions by converting sulphur into gypsum, a process that can add significant operational costs. However, NITI Aayog has raised concerns over whether these investments align with India's current energy priorities and financial realities.

The advisory also takes into account international energy trends and India’s own climate commitments, considering potential alternative approaches for gradual emission reductions without imposing immediate economic pressures on the energy sector. This recommendation has led to mixed reactions, with environmental advocates stressing the importance of emissions controls for air quality and public health, while others see the pause as essential for maintaining affordable energy access.

This temporary halt, if adopted, would require revised deadlines for compliance, potentially affecting India's carbon emissions targets. NITI Aayog’s position reflects the ongoing debate over balancing sustainable development with energy security in India’s path toward environmentally conscious energy policies.

NITI Aayog has proposed that Indian power plants pause the installation of sulphur-reducing equipment, like flue gas desulfurization (FGD) units, used to lower sulphur dioxide (SO?) emissions. The advisory, targeting coal-fired power plants, suggests a temporary halt as part of a broader evaluation of economic and environmental impacts. This recommendation aligns with concerns about the substantial costs of implementing FGD technology, which could impact the financial viability of many coal plants. Given that coal power generation remains crucial to India's energy mix, the pause proposal allows NITI Aayog to reassess the balance between emissions control and energy affordability. According to current regulations, power plants in India are required to adopt FGD technology to curb emissions by converting sulphur into gypsum, a process that can add significant operational costs. However, NITI Aayog has raised concerns over whether these investments align with India's current energy priorities and financial realities. The advisory also takes into account international energy trends and India’s own climate commitments, considering potential alternative approaches for gradual emission reductions without imposing immediate economic pressures on the energy sector. This recommendation has led to mixed reactions, with environmental advocates stressing the importance of emissions controls for air quality and public health, while others see the pause as essential for maintaining affordable energy access. This temporary halt, if adopted, would require revised deadlines for compliance, potentially affecting India's carbon emissions targets. NITI Aayog’s position reflects the ongoing debate over balancing sustainable development with energy security in India’s path toward environmentally conscious energy policies.

Next Story
Real Estate

Kerala HC Orders Demolition, Reconstruction of Chanderkunj Army Towers

The Kerala High Court has ordered the demolition and reconstruction of Towers B and C of the Chanderkunj Army Towers at Silver Sand Island, Vyttila, citing severe structural distress. The verdict follows a prolonged legal battle over the poor quality of construction, despite the Army Welfare Housing Organisation (AWHO) arguing for retrofitting instead of demolition. Justice CP Mohammed Nias ruled that the demolition was necessary to prevent casualties and safeguard residents. The court directed the district collector to form a committee comprising an experienced structural engineer, two r..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Nitish Kumar Unveils Rs 13.28 Billion Projects in Bhagalpur

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar inaugurated 146 development projects worth Rs 13.28 billion during his ‘Pragati Yatra’, urging officials to accelerate the region’s progress. The projects span multiple sectors, including 18 smart city initiatives, six schemes for the building department, 32 for rural development, and several others covering road construction, health, and SC/ST welfare. Additionally, Kumar laid the foundation stone for 63 new projects, with 35 dedicated to rural development. During his visit, he launched key initiatives at Bihar Agricultural University in Sabour, inc..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Indian Railways Upgrades 23,000 Track Kilometres for 130 kmph Speed

Indian Railways has upgraded over 23,000 track kilometres (TKM) to support speeds of up to 130 kmph, marking a significant milestone in its modernisation efforts. This initiative enhances connectivity, reduces travel time, and strengthens safety measures through advanced signalling and fencing systems. Key sections of the Golden Quadrilateral and Golden Diagonal networks—critical corridors linking major cities—are now equipped for higher speeds, improving passenger and freight movement. Additionally, 54,337 TKM of tracks have been upgraded for speeds up to 110 kmph, further boosting n..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?