What are the EU emissions regulations? How do they apply for diesel generators in the EU?

What are the EU emissions regulations?

The EU emissions regulations are a set of EU directives designed to limit the emissions from diesel engines. Within these regulations the EU aims to reduce the levels of smoke and harmful particulate matter emitted into the local environment. These regulations apply to most engines used in the EU. This article is limited to their impact on diesel power generation. For information not related to diesel generators in the EU, see general information on emissions.

What are the emissions stages? What emission levels are allowed?

Each stage in the system allows certain emissions of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen-oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons and particulate matter to be emitted.  Stages start at Stage I to Stage VI. Stage 0 is sometimes used to say that no emissions applies and the unit can be fuel optimized - yes strangely emissions limited engines use more fuel that fuel optimized models! For the actual values allowed, click here.

Stages or Tiers? Stages - Tiers apply to the EPA regulations -  these are used in the USA. In the EU they are referred to as stages.

How do EU emissions apply to diesel generators in the EU?

Diesel generators are divided into two main categories, stationary and non-road mobile machinery (NRMM). The regulations for stationary is different to non-road mobile machinery (NRMM). Generally stationary means it is fixed permanently in place and used for the duration of its life. anything else becomes NRMM.

This article attempts to give general and accurate information on the current position, however, different jurisdictions can implement additional laws to reduce the emissions further. Below, starting with the most current regulations are a list of the EU implementations. EU regulations are by power range, so the regulation varies depending on the size of the generators engine.

Updated for 2020

As of the 1st January 2019, requirements for Stage V have been introduced on some power nodes as follows. All stationary equipment remains at Tier 0, but it must comply with the Medium Plant Combustion Directive (MPCD).

You will be able to purchase sets with Stage 3B engines until the end of 2021, as long as the engine was manufactured prior to the end of 2020.

Updated for 2019

As of the 1st January 2019, requirements for Stage V have been introduced on some power nodes as follows. All stationary equipment remains at Tier 0, but it must comply with the Medium Plant Combustion Directive (MPCD).

You will be able to purchase sets with Stage 3B engines until the end of 2020, as long as the engine was manufactured prior to the end of 2019.

Updated for 2015

As of the 1st January 2019, requirements for Stage IIIB have been introduced on some power nodes as follows. All stationary equipment remains at Tier 0, but it must comply with the Medium Plant Combustion Directive (MPCD).

Updated for 2012

As of the 1st January 2019, requirements for Stage II have been introduced on some additional power nodes as follows. All stationary equipment remains at Stage 0, but it must comply with the Medium Plant Combustion Directive (MPCD).

Updated for 2011

As of the 1st January 2019, requirements for Stage II have been introduced on some power nodes as follows. All stationary equipment remains at Stage 0, but it must comply with the Medium Plant Combustion Directive (MPCD).

Updated for 2007

As of the 1st January 2007, requirements for Stage I have been introduced on some power nodes as follows. All stationary equipment remains at Stage 0, but it must comply with the Medium Plant Combustion Directive (MPCD).

Pre-2007

Emissions regulations did not apply to fixed speed engines pre-2007.