T he Ministry of Environment & Forests has, by its notification dated April 10, 1997 empowered the state governments to accord environmental clearance to :
1. Cogeneration Plants 2. Captive power plants up to 250 MW (both coal and gas / naphtha based), coming up separately and not along the main industry. 3. Coal based plants up to 500 MW using fluidised bed technology. 4. Coal based power plants up to 250 MW using conventional technology. 5. Gas / naphtha based plants up to 500 MW.
The state governments will follow the same procedures as being followed in the Central Government with regard to environmental appraisal of such power projects after conducting public hearing.