In short. In Delhi-NCR, generator operation is governed by directions from the air quality authority and state bodies, and they change with the season and pollution stage. Plan backup power around current notices, keep documents ready and have a compliant alternative.
Why this region differs
Air quality emergencies lead to staged restrictions on diesel generator use. Details, categories and exemptions are set by official orders, which are updated. This page explains how to work with them, not what they say today.
How to stay current
- Identify the authorities relevant to your location.
- Subscribe to official notices and keep a dated copy of the order you rely on.
- Assign one person to track updates.
- Review each set against the latest order.
| Question | Where to check |
|---|---|
| What is permitted now? | Current official order |
| Does my set qualify? | Category in the order and your certificate |
| Are there exemptions? | The order’s exemption list |
| What are the stages? | See GRAP guidance |
Planning options
- Compliant sets: modernisation.
- Cleaner fuel: gas systems.
- Less running: DG plus BESS.
- Temporary supply: rental power.
Illustrative example
A data centre keeps a file with the current order, set certificates and test reports. When restrictions tighten, it already knows which sets may run and for what, and moves non-critical loads to utility or storage.
A simple regulatory watch process
- Name an owner for regulatory tracking.
- List the sources: official websites of the relevant air-quality authority, state pollution control board and local administration.
- Save each order as a dated file with a one-line summary.
- Maintain a table of “what is permitted for which set under which order”.
- Review the table whenever a new order appears.
Mapping orders to your sets
| Set | Category per certificate | Permitted under current order? | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| DG-01 | As certified | Check the order text | Note exemptions, if any |
| DG-02 | As certified | Check the order text | Plan alternative if restricted |
Critical facilities
Hospitals, data centres, lifts and water supply need continuity. Where the orders allow limited operation for essential services, document the justification and keep logs. Where they do not, plan for alternatives well before the season.
Seasonal readiness
Restrictions are typically tied to periods of poor air quality. Prepare ahead: test alternative supply, stock consumables for aftertreatment, brief staff, and keep contacts for service and rental partners handy.
Operating outside Delhi-NCR
Sites in Hyderabad, Secunderabad and elsewhere follow their own applicable rules and may see changes over time. Use the Delhi-NCR experience as a planning scenario: a facility that can operate with restrictions is better prepared for any tightening.
Do not rely on summaries
Pages like this one cannot replace the order itself. When in doubt, read the notification, or ask the authority.
The master engineering question
If the rules tighten tonight, which loads stay up and on what source?
What to send us
Send location and set list. Send your application details.
Questions engineers ask
Can I rely on this page for limits?
No. Use the current official order.
Do hospitals get exemptions?
Check the order for categories.
Is gas allowed?
Check the order’s fuel conditions.
What documents help?
Certificates, test reports and logs.
General guidance only. Regulations change; verify officially.