CAQM Imposes Rs 61.85 crore Environmental Compensation on Six Power Plants for Ignoring Biomass Co‑firing Norms

Key Insight

CAQM fines power plants for flouting mandatory biomass co‑firing, tightening air‑quality enforcement in NCR

Key Facts

1. CAQM levied an Environmental Compensation of ₹61.85 crore on six thermal power plants within 300 km of Delhi.
2. Under the Environmental (Utilisation of Crop Residue by Thermal Power Plants) Rules, 2023, coal‑based TPPs must co‑fire 5% biomass pellets/briquettes with coal.
3. For FY 2024‑25, a minimum 3% biomass blend was prescribed; non‑compliance triggers penalties.
4. The six plants violated the rule, prompting CAQM’s Direction No. 42, which makes the mandate statutory rather than voluntary.
5. The biomass requirement primarily targets paddy‑straw residues to curb stubble burning and improve NCR air quality.
6. The compensation is to be utilized for remedial measures, including afforestation, air‑quality monitoring, and farmer‑support schemes.

Background

The move reflects the growing use of statutory mechanisms to tackle air‑pollution in the NCR, linking agricultural residue management with the power sector’s carbon footprint. It underscores the role of CAQM as a specialised regulatory body under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and aligns with national climate commitments such as the ‘Panchamrit’ targets.

UPSC Syllabus

• GS3 — Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation

Mains Angle

GS III – Environment & Pollution Control: Discuss the effectiveness of statutory enforcement (e.g., CAQM’s compensation) in curbing crop‑residue burning and improving air quality, and suggest ways to strengthen compliance.