This page is a summary for general guidance, not legal advice. Always check the latest circular on the MPCB website, because rules and deadlines change.
MPCB rules at a glance
| Regulator | Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) |
|---|---|
| Key instruction | Circular of 2 June 2023 on RECD for in-use diesel engines; a later MPCB circular (27 October 2023) extended the time limit |
| Capacity covered | Up to 800 kW (1,000 kVA) gross mechanical power |
| Engines covered | Phase I and Phase II engines that have completed five years from the date of manufacture |
| What is required | A CPCB-listed, ARAI-certified RECD, tested under the CPCB procedure for at least 70% particulate matter reduction |
| Who must comply | Industries, establishments, projects, buildings, utilities, airports, railway stations and other places in Maharashtra that run diesel generator sets |
Does your DG set need an RECD?
Check four things on the DG set nameplate and in your records:
- Capacity: the circular covers sets up to 800 kW (1,000 kVA). As a rule of thumb, kW = kVA x 0.8, but use the nameplate.
- Age: sets that have completed five years from manufacture are the main target. Newer sets that already meet the CPCB IV+ norms are generally treated differently.
- Engine phase: the circular refers to Phase I and Phase II engines, so note the engine model and year.
- Very old sets: the state order that came with the circular also dealt with DG sets manufactured before 2004. If you run one, check its current status before investing in a retrofit.
What 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.
- Any compliance report your MPCB regional office has asked you to submit.
How Novorbis helps in Maharashtra
Novorbis Itus is on the CPCB RECD vendor list (as of 30-06-2026) and supplies ARAI-certified devices. Novorbis is headquartered in Pune. Our process:
- Site survey: we record DG set capacity, engine make, year of manufacture, running hours and exhaust layout at your site.
- 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.
Compare our CarbonFree ESP and CarbonFree Advanced Catalyst+ options on the product pages.
Frequently asked questions
Is RECD mandatory for DG sets in Maharashtra?
Under MPCB's circular of 2 June 2023, in-use diesel DG sets up to 800 kW (1,000 kVA) that have completed five years from manufacture are expected to be retrofitted with a certified emission control device. The compliance period was extended by a later MPCB circular, so check the MPCB circulars page for the current position.
Which DG sets are covered?
Sets up to 800 kW (1,000 kVA) with Phase I or Phase II engines that are more than five years from the date of manufacture. Newer sets that meet current CPCB norms are generally treated differently. Confirm against the circular for your engine.
What if my DG set is above 800 kW?
The circular is limited to sets up to 800 kW. Larger sets are usually dealt with through the stack-emission conditions in your consent to operate, so speak to your MPCB regional office.
What must the RECD achieve?
It must be certified under the CPCB procedure for RECD, which requires at least 70% particulate matter reduction, verified by a CPCB-approved agency such as ARAI or ICAT.
Can I use dual-fuel or gas instead of an RECD?
Dual-fuel or gas-based operation is a separate route that some boards recognise. Novorbis supplies RECDs, so check the circular for the alternatives it allows before choosing.
Is Novorbis on the CPCB vendor list?
Yes. Novorbis Itus appears on the CPCB RECD vendor list (as of 30-06-2026).