Navigating CPCB’s New DG Set Emission Standards: A Practical Guide to Retrofit Solutions

As India progresses towards its environmental sustainability objectives, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued fresh emission standards for diesel generator (DG) sets. These new guidelines enforce emissions control on DG sets with greater stringency, forcing compliance among industries, commercial structures, and residential societies, or else face fines. One of the easiest and most approved CPCB methods to meet these standards is the installation of a Retrofit Emission Control Device (RECD).  

In this practical guide, we aim to explain what the new CPCB standards entail and how RECD solutions can aid you in achieving compliance and building a sustainable environment.  

Grasping CPCB's Revised Emission Norms  

The CPCB has revised emission limits on diesel generators (DG) sets of capacity 19 kW to 800 kW, starting July 2023. The regulations are intended to control the release of major pollutants, including Particulate Matter (PM), NOx or Nitrogen Oxides, Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Hydrocarbons (HC). All operational DG sets in urban and industrial areas must meet these standards.  

For in-service or older DG sets that do not comply with the new standards, the CPCB suggests adding RECD technology as a practical substitute to complete replacement."

What is an RECD?

RECD, or Retrofit Emission Control Devices, are custom-made to reduce the emission pollutants released by diesel generators. It is fitted within the exhaust system of the DG set, filtering out harmful gases and particles and transforming them into less toxic compounds before discharging into the atmosphere.

RECDs are certified by CPCB and can retrofit obsolete DG sets without requiring extensive structural changes to the generator.

Why choose RECD over generator replacement?

Most industries are concerned about the expenses and the replacement of entire DG sets for CPCB compliance. Luckily, RECD provides a convenient and budget-friendly answer that also meets regulations.

Benefits of using RECD:

• Budget Friendly: Installing RECD can save money compared to purchasing a new low-emission DG set.
• Compliance: Guaranteed adherence to the emissions requirements using the CPCB-approved RECDs.
• Environmental Protection: Filters out pollutants such as particulate matter, NOx, HC, and CO, thereby improving air quality.
• Reduced Downtime: Installation takes only a few hours, permitting routine operations uninterrupted.
• Sustainability: Strengthens the credentials of the company regarding environmental responsibility.

How does RECD work?

The RECD technology is built on catalytic conversion and high-level filtration. Here's a more straightforward process.

• Particulate Filter: Gathers and captures harmful particulate matter.
• Catalytic Oxidation: Changes hydrocarbons and CO into water and carbon dioxide.  
• SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction): NOx emissions are reduced through a urea-based solution.  

This multi-stage filtration guarantees that all exhaust emissions are within the permissible limit CPCB sets.  

In which situation is RECD Installation Mandatory?

As per guidelines set by CPCB, the installation of RECD is compulsory for:  

• Residential and commercial complexes with aged diesel generators.  
• Hospitals, IT parks, malls, and industrial plants in urban and semi-urban regions.  
• Construction sites with frequent use of mobile/DG sets.  

Not having an appropriate RECD installed may incur a range of financial or non-financial penalties or even lead to operational shutdowns in line with State Pollution Control Bakers SPCBs mandates.  

Recommended Guidelines for Choosing the Best RECD for Your DG Set  

Choose a Retrofit Emission Control Device based on the following requirements.  

• CPCB certification: Ensure that the RECD has been certified by the CPCB.
• Compliance: Ensure the RECD for the capacity and usage of the DG set.
• Post-installation service: Ensure procurement from vendors who provide on-site installation and post-sales support.
• Maintenance: Select those RECDs that are maintainable and have a long lifetime.  

Procedures to Put RECD to Use in Your Facility  

1. DG Set Audit: Have a professional audit of your existing DG sets to assess suitability.
2. Vendor Selection: Select a trustworthy RECD vendor and the CPCB-approved vendor.  
3. Installation: Install the RECD while being overseen by a qualified professional.  
4. Testing & Compliance Check: Perform testing emissions after installation for compliance verifications.  
5. Documentation: Documents should be maintained for reporting to the pollution control bodies.  

Government Support and Incentives  

The emissionThe Government of India backs emission reduction processes of the RECDs. Some state governments as well as municipal corporations provide grants or financial assistance for the purchase of RECDs. Moreover, there are various other corporate social responsibility (CSR) advantages that accrue to early adopters of green innovations and technologies.  

  

Common FAQs About RECD  

1: Is RECD a must for small DG sets under 19 kW?  

A: Currently, the CPCB regulations for DG sets range from 19 kW to 800 kW. However, retrofitting such devices with RECD technology is advisable for cleaner emissions.  

2: How much time is needed to set up an RECD?  

A: Depending on the DG Set's size and its easy access, the work can be completed in under one day.  

3: Will RECD reduce the operational parameters of my DG set?  

A: Negative. The operational functions of certified RECDs do not interfere with your generator's efficiency and fuel economy.  

4: When should the RECDs be serviced?  

A: Regular servicing after every six to twelve months is suggested to ensure that they operate efficiently.

Conclusion

Due to the evolving industry standards concerning the environment and heightened corporate responsibility, retrofitting a diesel generator with a Retrofit Emission Control Device (RECD) is no longer optional; it is a requirement. In addition to meeting compliance with CPCB norms, it enhances your company's image as a socially responsible business.

Embrace regulatory requirements while simultaneously promoting a cleaner India by installing RECDs now.