Tech-powered emission controls enhance power plant performance

These innovative technologies support sustainable energy production and contribute to broader climate change mitigation efforts by minimising the environmental footprint of power generation.

Power plants are essential for meeting global energy demands. However, their operations release significant quantities of air pollutants, including sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), mercury and greenhouse gases. A range of emission control products and technologies are used to reduce these emissions and comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. Many leading companies have started emphasising the use of primary emission control products in power plants, their working principles and their effectiveness in reducing pollution. 

Advanced emission control products and technologies 

FGD (Flue Gas Desulphurisation) systems, commonly known as scrubbers, are used to remove SOx from the flue gases of fossil-fuel power plants. The most prevalent type is the wet limestone scrubber, which uses a slurry of limestone and water to absorb SO₂, converting it into gypsum, a usable byproduct. Dry and semi-dry scrubbers are used, especially in smaller plants or where water availability is limited. FGD systems have the potential to remove up to 95 per cent of SO₂ emissions and produce gypsum in the plants, which can be further used in construction activities.  

Moreover, selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR) are post-combustion technologies used to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in power plants. SCR uses a metal-based catalyst and injects ammonia or urea into the flue gas, facilitating a reaction at lower temperatures to convert NOx into harmless nitrogen and water achieving up to 90 percent NOx reduction. In contrast, SNCR does not use a catalyst; instead, it injects ammonia or urea directly into the hot flue gas at higher temperatures, where it reacts with NOx to form nitrogen and water typically achieving 30–70 percent reduction, however, with greater variability and lower efficiency than SCR. 

Similarly, electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) are widely used to control particulate emissions. It uses high-voltage electrical fields to charge particles in the flue gas, which are then attracted to and collected on oppositely charged plates. ESPs remove over 99 percent of particulate matter, including fine particles and heavy metals. In addition, mercury emissions are typically controlled using activated carbon injection (ACI) systems, which capture mercury on carbon particles that are then removed by ESPs or baghouses. In addition, SCR and FGD systems provide some significant benefits in mercury removal.  

Furthermore, mist collectors are essential devices in power plants, especially those using wet scrubbers, as they efficiently capture and remove fine liquid droplets and aerosols from flue gases, preventing their release into the atmosphere and reducing visible plumes. Catalytic converters, like those in automobiles, convert harmful gases such as carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into less toxic substances such as carbon dioxide and water, thereby minimising air pollution. Incinerators are used to combust volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants, breaking them down at high temperatures into less harmful byproducts, thus ensuring safer emissions. 

Demand for power emission control products  

Power emission control products in power plants offer substantial environmental and health benefits by significantly reducing the release of harmful pollutants. This dramatic reduction in emissions leads to improved air quality, which is linked to fewer respiratory illnesses, lower mortality rates and enhanced public health outcomes, especially in densely populated or vulnerable regions. 

Besides health benefits, emission control products help power plants comply with stringent environmental regulations, avoid penalties, and ensure operational continuity. They also enable the recovery of valuable byproducts, such as gypsum, from desulphurisation processes, which are reused in construction. These technologies support sustainable energy production and contribute to broader climate change mitigation efforts by minimising the environmental footprint of power generation and boosting the demand for emission control products in power plants.

Emission control strategies 

Many industry leaders have started implementing integrated emission control strategies with the rise in concern for climatic changes. These strategies combine advanced technologies to address multiple pollutants simultaneously, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental regulations and optimising operational efficiency. According to a study performed by Allied Market Research, the industrial emission control systems industry garnered $21,133 million in 2022. 

In addition, integrating renewable energy sources such as wind and solar with conventional thermal plants further reduces greenhouse gas emissions and diversifies energy supply. Several companies have significantly reduced pollutants, lowered operational costs, and supported sustainable power generation by adopting a holistic approach that synergistically manages various emissions. 

GE strengthened environmental monitoring

In February 2025, GE, an American multinational company, announced that it secured a contract to supply Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) and Data Acquisition and Handling Systems (DAHS) for Conectiv Mid-Merit, LLC’s advanced and environmentally responsible power facility in Delta, Pennsylvania. GE’s services include system engineering, equipment fabrication, installation supervision, and startup for three CEMS units expected to monitor NOx, CO, NH₃, and O₂ emissions.  

The project involves data collection and archiving for regulatory compliance, preparing federal and state emissions reports, and constructing an accessories building. In addition, GE is expected to install power distribution and cable management systems to support DCS and UPS equipment. Dave Sears, the electrical engineer at Conectiv, stated that this collaborative approach addresses technical challenges effectively and offers valuable alternatives that enhance project efficiency. He added that GE’s involvement is expected to support the facility’s commitment to environmental responsibility and operational excellence.  

HIMOINSA’s next-gen power solution 

In October 2024, HIMOINSA, a Yanmar Group company, unveiled the HGY Series, a cutting-edge power solution designed for mission-critical applications. Co-developed with Yanmar Power Technology, the series integrates HIMOINSA’s power generation expertise with Yanmar’s advanced engine technology. Launched at an event in Madrid’s Metropolitano Stadium, the HGY Series offers power ranges from 1250kVA to 3500kVA, with future models up to 4000kVA. Featuring electronically controlled Yanmar engines, including 12, 16, and upcoming 20-cylinder versions, the series supports alternative fuels such as HVO, gas and hydrogen to advance Net Zero goals. It meets stringent European, German, British, U.S. (EPA Tier 2) and Singapore (NEA) emissions standards. It has exhaust after-treatment systems, making it a sustainable and globally compliant power solution. 

Bottom line 

Adopting advanced emission control technologies in power plants is essential for meeting environmental standards, improving public health and supporting climate goals.  Power producers significantly reduce harmful emissions by implementing integrated solutions, such as FGD, SCR, ESPs, and ACI systems, and incorporating renewable energy sources. This transition ensures regulatory compliance and boosts sustainable and efficient energy generation for a cleaner and healthier future. 

Authored by: Rosy Behera, Sr. Associate Content Writer- Allied Market Research