In a major stride towards self-sufficiency and environmental conservation, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has successfully manufactured India’s inaugural set of Catalysts for Selective Catalyst Reactors (SCR), a pioneering technology for curtailing NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions emanating from thermal power plants. The accomplishment stands as a significant milestone within the framework of the ‘Make in India’ initiative endorsed by the Government of India.
Previously, the nation relied on imports for these vital catalysts, making this achievement a remarkable example of India’s capability to produce advanced technologies domestically. The development holds substantial implications, not just for technological advancement but also for bolstering the nation’s self-reliance in crucial sectors.
The first batch of these indigenous SCR catalysts has been specially crafted for the Yadadri Thermal Power Station in Telangana, with a capacity of 5×800 MW. The symbolic flag-off ceremony took place at BHEL’s Solar Business Division (SBD) unit in Bengaluru, with the honourable Renuka Gera, Director (Industrial Systems & Products), BHEL, gracing the event. The event was attended by key personnel, including Pankaj Gupta, Executive Director, SBD, Anil Joshi, Executive Director, Industry Sector, and other members of the SBD team.
BHEL’s dedicated efforts have led to the establishment of a cutting-edge SCR catalyst manufacturing facility within its SBD unit. This facility is poised to play a pivotal role in mitigating NOx emissions within thermal power stations, aligning with the environmental norms set by the Ministry of Environment and Forest. Noteworthy power generation companies like TSGENCO, MAHAGENCO, WBPDCL, and NALCO have already placed orders for SCR units, attesting to the practical utility and significance of this indigenous technology.
BHEL’s commitment to environmental preservation is commendable. The organisation not only provides high-efficiency boilers but also extends its offerings to encompass environment-friendly technologies tailored for thermal power plants. In addition to SCR catalysts, the company supplies electrostatic precipitators and Flue Gas Desulfurization units. The underlying technology for these advancements has been indigenously absorbed by the market leader, NANO, based in the Republic of Korea.
This achievement underlines the progress India has made in the realm of advanced manufacturing and technology. The ‘Make in India’ initiative gains further momentum through such pioneering feats, positioning India as a capable contender in producing sophisticated solutions for global challenges. As BHEL continues to champion self-reliance and environmental stewardship, the nation takes a stride forward in its journey towards sustainability and innovation.
