This page is a summary for general guidance, not legal advice. Always check the latest circular from KSPCB.
KSPCB rules at a glance
| Regulator | Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) |
|---|---|
| Key instruction | Circular of 19 August 2026 on mandatory RECD retrofitting, building on KSPCB's notification of 25 May 2023 and earlier circulars |
| Capacity covered | 61 kW up to 800 kW |
| Which sets | DG sets more than five years old from the date of manufacture, subject to the useful-life conditions in the circular |
| Above 800 kW | A suitable air pollution control device (APCD) that meets the applicable emission standards |
| Reporting | A separate compliance report for RECD retrofitting of all DG sets is to be submitted immediately |
| Deadline | No single final deadline is stated in the circular |
Does your DG set need an RECD?
- Capacity: 61 kW is roughly 76 kVA at a 0.8 power factor, so most commercial sets of 82.5 kVA and above fall in range. A 62.5 kVA set is about 50 kW, which is below the range. Always use the nameplate kW figure.
- Age: the main retrofit clause applies to sets more than five years old from manufacture.
- Above 800 kW: a different requirement applies (suitable APCD), so do not apply the 61 to 800 kW clause to these sets.
- Earlier threshold: KSPCB's 2023 notification used a 125 kVA threshold. The 2026 circular uses the 61 to 800 kW range, so check which applies to your set.
What KSPCB and inspectors usually ask for
- Proof that the RECD comes from a CPCB-listed vendor, with the ARAI or ICAT certificate for your capacity.
- Installation and commissioning records.
- Emission test results after installation, from a CPCB-approved lab where requested.
- Photos of the DG set nameplate (kVA/kW, engine make, year of manufacture) and running-hour records.
- Maintenance or AMC records for the RECD.
- The compliance report on RECD retrofitting that the 2026 circular asks for, with the supporting vendor and certificate details.
- Consent to establish or operate (CFE/CFO) conditions that refer to DG sets above 125 kVA.
How Novorbis helps in Karnataka
Novorbis Itus is on the CPCB RECD vendor list (as of 30-06-2026) and supplies ARAI-certified devices. Our process:
- Site survey: we record DG set capacity, engine make, year of manufacture, running hours and exhaust layout, so your compliance report is accurate.
- Device selection: we recommend the CarbonFree ESP (filterless) or the CarbonFree Advanced Catalyst+ depending on your set and duty cycle, using only devices whose certificate covers your capacity.
- Installation and commissioning: fitted to the exhaust line with commissioning records for your file.
- Emission testing: post-installation testing arranged through a CPCB-approved lab, where your board asks for it.
- Documents handed over: vendor listing reference, ARAI/ICAT certificate for your capacity, installation record, test report and an AMC schedule.
Frequently asked questions
Is RECD mandatory for DG sets in Karnataka?
KSPCB's circular of 19 August 2026 describes retrofitting as mandatory for DG sets of 61 kW up to 800 kW that are more than five years old, subject to the useful-life conditions it sets out. It does not state a single final deadline, but it asks for a compliance report immediately.
Does a 125 kVA DG set need an RECD in Karnataka?
A 125 kVA set is about 100 kW, which is inside the 61 to 800 kW range. If it is more than five years old, the retrofit requirement is likely to apply. Confirm against the circular and your consent conditions.
What about DG sets above 800 kW?
For sets above 800 kW, the circular asks for a suitable APCD that meets the applicable emission standards. This is a separate requirement from the RECD clause.
What is the compliance report?
KSPCB has asked for a separate compliance report on RECD retrofitting of all DG sets. Check the circular for the format and recipient, and keep your vendor certificate and installation records ready.
Can I use dual-fuel instead?
The circular also refers to dual-fuel operation for sets below 800 kW, up to the useful life it specifies. Novorbis supplies RECDs, so check which route suits your site.
Is Novorbis on the CPCB vendor list?
Yes. Novorbis Itus appears on the CPCB RECD vendor list (as of 30-06-2026).