Why retrofitting Electrostatic Precipitators (ESPs) in Indian thermal power plants is a more viable and effective option compared to the installation of flue gas desulfurization (FGD) systems?

Thermal power plants are a great source of GHG emission thereby necessitating improvement in their preening. Retrofitting Electrostatic Precipitators over installing flue gas desulfurization - (1) This will improve existing thermal plant improving their continued usage and will improve GHG emissions. (2) Availability of materials for flue gas desulfurization might be an issue. (3) Cost overruns - Retrofitting is a cheaper option. (4) Availability of necessary technology and skills equipped better for retrofitting needs. (5) Energy security considerations - India needs thermal plants continued usage to meet growing energy demand. (6) Flue gas desulfurization systems have inherent shortcomings in being a comprehensive solution.