The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), on August 19, 2026, issued a Circular regarding the mandatory retrofitting of Retrofit Emission Control Devices (RECDs) to diesel generator (DG) sets of capacities from 61 kW to 800 kW in Karnataka. The Circular reiterates the requirements issued through earlier KSPCB orders, notifications, addendums and circulars, and refers to the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and directions of the National Green Tribunal concerning control of air pollution from DG sets.
Industries, establishments, projects, buildings, utilities, airports, railway stations and other concerned organisations are required to use certified RECDs from approved manufacturers for DG sets of 61 kW to 800 kW which are more than five years old, subject to the specified useful-life conditions. The Circular also requires DG sets above 800 kW to adopt suitable Air Pollution Control Devices (APCDs) in compliance with the applicable emission standards. Further, all diesel generators above 125 kVA are stipulated to be fitted with RECDs having a minimum 70% particulate-matter capturing efficiency, as specified by the Board.
The KSPCB has also directed that a separate compliance report for RECD retrofitting of all DG sets be submitted immediately. The Board has stated that the matter will be reviewed once every three months to assess progress, including under the Chief Minister's 100 Days Mission programme. The Circular is therefore directly relevant to establishments operating DG sets within Karnataka and imposes an environmental compliance requirement concerning emissions control and retrofitting.
[Circular No. KSPCB/NCAP/SEO-INFRA/DG-Retrofitting/2025-26/2174]
