The Benefit-Cost Analysis of Emission Standards for Coal-Based Thermal Power Plants in India evaluates the economic implications of India’s strengthened emission norms introduced in 2015. The standards set tighter limits on sulphur oxides (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), particulate matter (PM), and mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants.
The study estimates the compliance costs, including capital investments for flue gas desulfurization systems, selective catalytic reduction, and other pollution control technologies, as well as ongoing operational expenses. It also quantifies the benefits of reduced air pollution, particularly lower premature mortality, fewer respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses, and improved public health outcomes.
Findings indicate that while compliance increases generation costs and may raise electricity tariffs, the long-term health and environmental benefits significantly outweigh the costs, supporting stricter emission standards as economically justified and socially beneficial.
