Is Coal Gasification a Major Advancement for Cleaner Fuels?
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Synopsis
The Indian government is making significant strides in promoting coal gasification, marking a pivotal shift towards cleaner fuels and sustainable growth. This innovative technology not only reduces emissions but also harnesses the vast potential of coal for a greener future.
Key Takeaways
- Coal gasification converts coal into syngas for cleaner fuel production.
- The initiative supports the vision of a sustainable India by 2047.
- Financial incentives of Rs 8,500 crore have been announced for promoting projects.
- Joint ventures between major companies mark significant progress in this sector.
- Coal gasification technology helps reduce carbon emissions.
New Delhi, May 20 (NationPress) The Ministry of Coal has intensified its initiatives to advocate for coal gasification as a key component of the government’s strategy to transition towards cleaner fuels, greener technologies, and a long-term vision for sustainable and inclusive growth.
Coal gasification converts solid coal into syngas, a combination of carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide, paving the way for cleaner fuels and chemicals like methanol and ammonia, while also reducing emissions,” stated the Coal Ministry on Tuesday.
The Ministry perceives coal gasification as “a move towards energy self-sufficiency and a cleaner industrial future,” due to its ability to produce cleaner fuels, chemical feedstocks, and lower emissions.
Coal is among the most plentiful natural resources in India. The technology of coal gasification allows the transformation of coal into syngas (synthetic gas), which can be utilized to manufacture downstream products such as methanol, ammonium nitrate, synthetic natural gas (SNG), and fertilizers. This technology represents an alternative application of coal, fostering environmental sustainability and aligning with the vision for a developed India by 2047, as noted by a senior official.
The government has sanctioned an outlay of Rs 8,500 crore as a financial incentive to boost coal gasification projects for both public sector undertakings (PSUs) and private firms.
Leading Maharatna firms, Coal India Limited and GAIL (India) Limited, have entered into a notable joint venture to establish a Coal to Synthetic Natural Gas plant utilizing surface coal gasification technology.
This plant, set to be located in the Raniganj region of Eastern Coalfields Limited in West Bengal, is anticipated to generate 80,000 Nm3 of SNG per hour, with an annual output projected at 633.6 million Nm3, necessitating a supply of 1.9 million tonnes of coal from Coal India Ltd (CIL). The collaboration between these two corporate giants marks a significant stride towards fulfilling the objectives of the National Coal Gasification Mission, which promotes the utilization of coal's chemical properties.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Coal announced the issuance of Letters of Award (LOAs) to applicants chosen under Category II of the Rs 8,500 crore Coal Gasification Incentive Scheme, which aims to curtail the country’s carbon emissions and bolster energy security.
Jindal Steel and Power Limited has been granted Rs 569.05 crore for its 2MMTPA coal gasification initiative in Angul, Odisha. This Rs 3,793 crore project will convert coal into Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) through coal gasification and will also establish a carbon capture and utilization facility designed to capture 30 TPD of CO2 for conversion into valuable products.
New Era Cleantech Solution Private Limited has received a financial incentive of Rs 1,000 crore for its coal gasification project in Bhadravati, Chandrapur, Maharashtra. Furthermore, Greta Energy Limited has been awarded Rs 414.01 crore for its coal gasification project at Bhadravati, with a total investment of Rs 2,763 crore.
Point of View
The Ministry of Coal's push for coal gasification is a commendable effort towards achieving energy self-reliance and environmental sustainability. This initiative aligns well with India's long-term vision of cleaner energy solutions, fostering both economic growth and environmental responsibility. It reflects a balanced approach, recognizing the country's reliance on coal while transitioning towards greener technologies.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is coal gasification?
Coal gasification is a process that converts solid coal into synthetic gas (syngas), a mixture of carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide, which can be used for cleaner fuel production.
How does coal gasification benefit the environment?
It reduces emissions by producing cleaner fuels and chemical feedstocks, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly energy system.
What financial support is the government providing for coal gasification?
The government has allocated Rs 8,500 crore in financial incentives to promote coal gasification projects across both public and private sectors.
Where is the Coal to Synthetic Natural Gas plant being established?
The plant will be set up in the Raniganj area of Eastern Coalfields Limited in West Bengal.
How will coal gasification impact India's energy security?
By enhancing energy self-reliance and reducing carbon emissions, coal gasification strengthens India's overall energy security.
