Introduction

India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has repeatedly delayed deadlines for thermal power plants to comply with sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emission norms. Initially set in 2015 for compliance by 2017, these norms have now been extended multiple times, with the latest deadline being December 30, 2024. This prolonged regulatory uncertainty reflects broader challenges in environmental governance, industrial compliance, and consumer impact.

1. Background of SO₂ Emission Norms

• In 2015, MoEFCC introduced stricter environmental norms, including SO₂ emission limits for thermal power plants.
• Compliance deadlines were initially set for December 2017, but multiple extensions have pushed it forward.
• The norms aimed to align India’s standards with countries like Australia, China, and the U.S.

2. Challenges in Implementation

• High Cost of Desulphurization Technology: Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) installations are expensive and have long gestation periods.
• Supply Chain Issues: Procurement and installation of FGDs face logistical hurdles, leading to delays.
• Government Confusion & Differing Reports: Studies from institutions like IIT Delhi and CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) have provided mixed views on SO₂ norms’ effectiveness.
• Electricity Sector Impact: The costs of compliance are often passed to consumers, increasing power tariffs.

3. Multiple Extensions and Policy Dilution

• The MoEFCC has extended deadlines multiple times, with different timelines for different power plants based on location.
• The latest deadline for SO₂ norms compliance is now December 2027 for some plants, while other pollution norms had earlier deadlines.
• Lack of enforcement and monitoring has resulted in uncertainty about actual compliance levels.

4. Impact on Consumers and Environment

• Electricity consumers bear the cost of FGD installations even if plants do not use them efficiently.
• Delayed implementation means continued air pollution, affecting public health.
• Power plants may avoid running FGDs due to operational cost concerns, reducing their environmental benefit.

Conclusion

The repeated extensions and debates over SO₂ norms highlight India’s struggle to balance industrial interests, environmental sustainability, and consumer welfare. Effective implementation requires stronger enforcement mechanisms, better technological solutions, and regulatory certainty. Without decisive action, both public health and economic efficiency will continue to suffer.