Clearing the Air: Transforming Diesel Generators — Policies, Emission Standards, and Retrofits
In the ever-evolving saga of urbanization and industrialization, the role of power generation cannot be overstated. However, as we strive for progress, we often overlook the unintended consequences of our actions.
A huge machine, often tucked away in the corners of our cities across traffic junctions, cafes, commercial complexes, residential apartments, and industries, the Diesel Generator set (DG set), a seemingly unassuming behemoth that holds the power to illuminate our world when the lights go out. These rugged giants come in various sizes and colors (mostly in Green), from compact models the size of a small car to massive units that could fill a room.
The rising tide of dispersed air pollution sources, with a particular spotlight on diesel generator sets (DG sets), demands our immediate attention. The very power that fuels our growth also fuels a silent and deadly adversary: AIR POLLUTION.
Diesel generator sets, known for their reliability, flexibility, and capacity to provide backup power, have become indispensable in a rapidly urbanizing India. These silent workhorses often stand ready to kick into action when grid power falters. Yet, their contribution to our cities’ pollution levels is substantial and cannot be ignored.
The kW Conundrum: DG sets, ranging from a few kilowatts to several megawatts in capacity, are essential for various sectors such as industries, hospitals, data centers, and residential complexes. In many cases, DG sets are operated not just during power outages but also to meet regular power demands.
As of 2021, India had approximately 90 GW (gigawatts) of installed DG set capacity. To put this in perspective, 1 GW can power around 7 lakh households.
Pollutants at Play: The environmental price tag associated with DG sets is high. These diesel-fueled power sources emit a cocktail of pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO). Among these, PM and NOx are particularly worrisome as they have detrimental health effects and contribute to the formation of smog, a common sight in many urban areas.
In light of the growing concern over air pollution and the need to transition to cleaner energy sources, there is a requirement for policy that aims to address the environmental and health challenges posed by DG sets. The policy seeks to promote the adoption of sustainable fuels and technologies in DG sets to mitigate their adverse effects and pave the way for a cleaner and greener energy future. The three vital recommendations to stir the policy change are outlined here,
Recommendation 1: Emission Reduction Targets
To minimize the environmental impact of DG sets, we propose the following measures:
- Establish Stringent Emission Standards: Implement and periodically update stringent emission standards for DG sets. These standards should align with or exceed global benchmarks, with a focus on reducing particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.
- Past pace of Retrofitting: Provide incentives and subsidies to encourage DG set owners to retrofit their equipment with emission control technologies, such as diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. This approach will help existing DG sets meet the new emission standards.
- Promote Cleaner Fuels: Encourage the use of cleaner fuels, such as biodiesel, natural gas, and advanced synthetic fuels, in DG sets. Incentivize the development and adoption of sustainable fuels that produce fewer emissions and have a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional diesel.
Recommendation 2: Transition to Renewable Energy Alternatives
To reduce the reliance on DG sets and promote cleaner energy sources, we recommend the following measures:
- Grid Stability Improvement: Invest in grid infrastructure to enhance stability and reduce power outages. By minimizing the need for DG set operation during grid failures, we can significantly reduce emissions.
- Promote Renewable Microgrids: Encourage the deployment of renewable energy microgrid systems in urban and industrial areas. These microgrids can provide reliable backup power using clean energy sources such as solar, wind, and energy storage.
- Financial Incentives: Provide financial incentives and tax benefits to industries, institutions, and businesses that invest in renewable energy infrastructure, reducing their dependence on DG sets.
Recommendation 3: Monitoring and Compliance
To ensure the effective implementation of emission standards and the transition to sustainable fuels, we propose the following monitoring and compliance measures:
- Real-time Emissions Monitoring: Mandate the installation of real-time emissions monitoring systems powered with IoT (Internet of Things) on all DG sets. These systems should continuously measure and report emissions data to regulatory authorities.
- Regular Audits and Inspections: Conduct regular audits and inspections of DG set facilities to ensure compliance with emission standards and sustainable fuel usage. Non-compliant operators should face penalties and corrective actions.
- Transparency and Reporting: Publish emissions data and compliance reports regularly, making this information accessible to the public. Transparency will drive accountability and encourage DG set operators to adopt cleaner technologies and fuels.
By implementing these recommendations we can steer our nation toward a future where DG sets play a reduced role in urban energy generation, emissions are significantly curtailed, and cleaner, more sustainable fuels and technologies become the norm. This policy sets the stage for a healthier and more environmentally responsible energy landscape by the year 2030.
Let’s change the narrative from Diesel Generator to ‘Decisively Green’!”
