Existing laws do little to deal with power plant shutdowns: Report

Even after the implementation of laws related to environmental impact assessment and pollution prevention and control regulations, there are still many gaps in the legislative and policy framework with regard to re-purpose and reallocation of existing infrastructure. A recent study by the non-profit environmental research organization iFOREST pointed out that India’s current environmental, land and labor laws are inadequate to deal with the closure of industries and thermal power plants (TPPs).

Chandra Bhushan, CEO, iFOREST, said, “If the power ministry’s advice to retire coal-based generating units above 25 years of age is implemented, 50,000-60,000 MW of capacity will have to be retired by 2030.”

“Therefore, it is important to ask whether the country is prepared to shut down such large capacities and ensure a fair outcome for the environment, labor and dependent communities,” he said, highlighting issues related to the shutdown of thermal power plants.

An equitable change includes full treatment of the plant site, wage replacement or compensation for the workforce, compensation for economic losses caused to dependent communities, and the creation of new economic opportunities and environmental outcomes that will benefit communities.

Chandra Bhushan said, “However, our existing laws do not ensure a just transition. Therefore, it is important to revise our existing laws or enact a new law to ensure a just transition for the environment, labor and communities.”

according to the report, ‘Just Transition of Coal Based Power Plants in India: A Policy and Regulatory Review’ There is no law in India that mandates closure, treatment and reuse of a coal TPP after its retirement.

ALSO READ Allegations on ignoring: Imran’s aides said – now the one above is the owner of Pakistan
Mandvi Singh, program lead, iForest and lead author of the report, said, “A power plant site can remain ‘as is’, as there are no laws that can compel the plant owner to remove, clean up the plant. site and set up a new facility. Unlike the mining sector, there is no need to draw up plans to shut down power plants and industries.”

He elaborated, “The current laws and regulations relating to the environment, labour, land and finance are either vague or silent on decommissioning, leaving ample room for non-standard approaches.

“CPCB is working towards finalizing the draft environmental guidelines on closure of thermal power plants as per the directions of the National Green Tribunal,” said Nazimuddin, scientist, Central Pollution Control Board.

Dr Namita Wahi, founding director of the Land Rights Initiative, emphasized the importance of involving local communities in deciding what will happen to the land after the closure.

“It is important to involve the local community in land reclamation decisions, especially in the context of forest lands. They should be included in any formal mechanism developed to decide on the fate of dormant power plant land,” Wahi said. This land was initially taken away from them.”