Environmental compensation imposed on Thermal Power Plants for Biomass Norm Violations.

Environmental compensation imposed on Thermal Power Plants for Biomass Norm Violations.

• Environmental compensation amounting to around ₹61.85 crore has been imposed by the Commission for Air Quality Management on six thermal power plants.
• The penalty has been levied due to non-compliance with mandatory biomass co-firing norms within a 300 km radius of Delhi.
• A requirement to use a 5 percent blend of biomass pellets or briquettes along with coal has been prescribed under statutory rules.
• A minimum threshold of 3 percent co-firing had been set for FY 2024-25 to avoid imposition of penalties.
• The objective of these provisions has been to promote ex-situ crop residue management and reduce stubble burning.
• A committee comprising representatives from CEA, CPCB, SAMARTH, and CAQM has been constituted to review compliance.
• Six thermal power plants were found non-compliant after detailed evaluation of performance data and submitted responses.
• Individual penalties include ₹33.02 crore on Talwandi Sabo Power Limited and varying amounts on other plants such as Panipat and Rajiv Gandhi Thermal Power Plants.
• The concerned plants have been directed to deposit the compensation amount by April 15, 2026, and submit proof of compliance.