Inequality in air pollution mortality from power generation in India

Abstract India’s coal-heavy electricity system is the world’s third largest and a major emitter of air pollution greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, it remains focus decarbonization control policy. Considerable heterogeneity exists between states in India terms demand, generation fuel mix, However, no analysis has disentangled expected, state-level spatial differences interactions mortality under current future power sector policies India. We use reduced-complexity quality model to evaluate annual PM 2.5 mortalities associated with production consumption each state Furthermore, we test emissions control, carbon tax, market integration understand how changes operations affect ambient concentrations mortality. find poorer, coal-dependent eastern disproportionately face burden from by importing deaths. Wealthier, high renewable energy western southern meanwhile lower exporting This suggests that as these have adopted more generation, they shifted their coal areas. also widespread sulfur decreases about 50%. Likewise, increasing taxes short term reduces up 9%. Market reform where generators pool meet demand 8%. As looks increase energy, implement regulations, establish trading market, move towards further integration, our results provide greater detail for federally structured Indian system.