CAQM Direction No. 76 is a key reference for businesses operating DG sets in the NCR. Issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on 29 September 2023, it regulates the operation of DG sets. It sets out measures to manage air pollution.
For industrial establishments, commercial and residential buildings, and offices, understanding DG set requirements helps you develop operational plans and assess control strategies to meet emission requirements.
This guide explains the objectives of CAQM Direction No. 76, the importance of controlling DG set emissions, the role of Retrofit Emission Control Devices (RECD), and the external legal resources businesses should review before making any compliance decisions.
What is CAQM Direction No. 76?
CAQM Direction No. 76, dated 29 September 2023, regulates DG sets in the NCR. The Direction sets out an operation schedule for DG sets and includes provisions for various applications and emission-control arrangements.
The Commission for Air Quality Management is empowered under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021 to take various measures to coordinate steps to prevent, control and address air pollution in the NCR and adjoining areas.
Diesel generators are used as a backup power source in industries, commercial establishments, hospitals, offices and residential complexes. Emissions from these generators contribute to local air pollution. Hence, regulations are required to set out provisions for operating eligible DG sets and to provide control measures.
Businesses should read the original Direction and subsequent amendments to that Direction. They should not determine their obligations based on any earlier summary by itself.
Why Is CAQM Direction No. 76 Important for DG Set Owners?
CAQM Direction No. 76 matters for organizations that use DG sets for backup power and need to understand the applicable emission control and operating requirements.
The Direction is important for the following reasons:
- Regulatory planning: It helps identify provisions related to DG set installation and use.
- Emission Management: It specifies the emission control requirements DG sets must meet.
- Equipment assessment: It sets minimum requirements for DG set configuration and certification.
- Operational continuity: It helps plan for power interruptions while satisfying regulatory requirements.
- Environmental responsibility: It specifies emission control requirements for operating industrial and commercial sources.
The exact provisions depend on the equipment classification and subsequent amendments. The organization is responsible for assessing and confirming current requirements if it intends to change its equipment’s operating status or procure new equipment.
CAQM Direction No. 76: DG Set Capacity and Emission-Control Requirements
DG set capacity is an important factor when assessing the requirements under CAQM’s regulatory framework.
The original Direction No. 76 was amended. For example, an Amendment to Direction No. 76 dated 22 February 2024 provided revised capacities for certain certified RECD and Dual-Fuel Systems.
CAQM’s 2024-25 annual report also addresses regulated DG set operations and the availability of certified RECD across relevant capacity ranges.
The case studies show that business users should consult the latest applicable documents rather than rely on a capacity table from an earlier document.
Before selecting an emission-control solution, DG set owners should verify:
- The generator’s rated capacity in kW.
- The applicable CAQM direction and subsequent amendments.
- The permitted operating conditions for the relevant DG set category.
- The emission-control mechanism applicable to that capacity and configuration.
- The current certification status and approved capacity range of the proposed equipment.
- Any additional requirements imposed by the relevant authorities.
Just because a product is available/certified for a particular capacity range does not mean it is approved for all DG sets in that range. Suitability must be established against the relevant requirements.
What is a Retrofit Emission Control Device (RECD)?
An RECD is an emission control system designed to be installed on suitable existing equipment.
For eligible diesel generator sets, a certified RECD may be relevant to the emission control provisions applicable to the equipment. However, the RECD must suit the generator and comply with the relevant certification and regulatory requirements.
When evaluating an RECD, businesses should consider the following factors:
1. DG set compatibility
Confirm the generator’s rated capacity, engine type, exhaust system and operating conditions.
2. Certification and approved capacity range
Examine the relevant certification, approving agency, approved capacity range and applicable conditions. Confirm the approved device information from official sources.
3. Emission-control performance
Examine verified test reports and the product’s performance. Emission control claims should be supported by test evidence and should not be generalized to all situations.
4. Installation and maintenance
Examine installation requirements, exhaust system flexibility, scheduled maintenance and operating instructions.
5. Regulatory applicability
Confirm that the control device meets the requirements of the regulatory agency. Installing a control device should not be interpreted as an automatically compliant solution.
How Can Businesses Evaluate RECD Solutions for CAQM Requirements?
Businesses looking for an emission-control solution should follow a structured evaluation process.
Step 1: Identify the DG set specifications.
Record the generator manufacturer, model, rated capacity, engine details and intended operating conditions.
Step 2: Review the applicable regulatory documents.
Read CAQM Direction No. 76 and its relevant amendments. Check for any later orders that may affect the installation.
Step 3: Identify the applicable control mechanism.
Determine which operating conditions and emission-control provisions apply to the particular DG set.
Step 4: Verify the proposed product
Ask the manufacturer to provide certification documents, approved capacity details and relevant performance data. Verify information against the appropriate records and documentation.
Step 5: Assess installation and maintenance requirements
Discuss compatibility and installation, servicing and operating requirements with the equipment supplier.
Step 6: Maintain supporting documentation
Retain equipment specifications, certifications, installation records, maintenance records, and any other information demonstrating the product meets the requirements.
This process helps organizations make informed equipment decisions and reduces reliance on product descriptions to assess compliance.
Platino Automotive: RECD Solutions for DG Sets
Platino Automotive offers emission control solutions for diesel generators, including Retrofit Emission Control Devices (RECD).
When evaluating RECD solutions, consider product compatibility, relevant certifications, verified performance data and other requirements for your DG set.
Platino Automotive can be contacted to evaluate the available solutions and assess the pertinent data to determine the suitability of an installation. The final decision on an installation should be based on applicable regulatory requirements.
Before you decide to purchase, review the relevant product data and verify applicable certifications and regulatory requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions about CAQM Direction No. 76
1. What is CAQM Direction No. 76?
CAQM Direction No. 76 is a direction issued on 29 September 2023, on the regulated operation of diesel generator sets in the National Capital Region (NCR). It contains provisions on DG set operating schedules and emission control arrangements.
2. When was CAQM Direction No. 76 issued?
CAQM Direction No. 76 was issued on 29 September 2023. Since then, amendments have been made to the Direction, which have modified certain provisions. Therefore, the original Direction has to be read in conjunction with the latest amendments.
3. Does CAQM Direction No. 76 apply to all DG sets in India?
CAQM Direction No. 76 applies only to DG sets in the NCR. The applicability of the Direction, and its amendments, depends on the location, equipment category, and other provisions. Different regions may have different applicable requirements.
4. What is an RECD for a DG set?
An RECD for a DG set is an emission control system that can be retrofitted to the DG set. Determine an appropriate system based on the DG set’s regulatory compliance, certification, capacity and other relevant factors.
5. Is an RECD mandatory for every DG set?
Determine whether a particular control mechanism applies to a DG set based on the prevailing regulatory framework, the DG set’s capacity and configuration, and its operating conditions.
6. How can I check whether an RECD is certified?
Review the relevant certification documents, the certifying agency’s name, the approved DG set capacity range, and any applicable conditions. Compare the product to the latest official information published by the concerned authorities.
7. Where can I find the official CAQM Direction No. 76 PDF?
The original Direction is available on the official CAQM website. Check the website for subsequent amendments and related orders before making compliance decisions.
Conclusion
Platino Automotive offers RECD solutions for qualified cases, giving customers access to the information they need for their products. To ensure compliance, always verify the relevant regulations and the suitability of a given technology.
Looking for an RECD solution for your DG set? Visit Platino Automotive to discuss your application with the team.
Regulatory disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes and is not legal or regulatory advice. CAQM directions, amendments and other applicable requirements may change. Always consult the latest official documents and the relevant authorities before making compliance decisions.
