Can India Gasify Coal with High Ash Content?
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Synopsis
India's coal gasification potential is on the rise! Experts reveal at a NITI Aayog event how indigenous technology can transform high ash content coal into cleaner energy. Discover the implications for sustainability and energy security in this groundbreaking discussion.
Key Takeaways
- India can gasify high ash content coal.
- Indigenous technology is being tested.
- Government funding supports gasification projects.
- Global best practices can be adapted.
- Coal gasification contributes to sustainability.
New Delhi, Sep 5 (NationPress) India has showcased its ability to gasify coal with high ash content using tested indigenous technologies, as highlighted by experts during a NITI Aayog event.
Dr. VK Saraswat, a member of NITI Aayog, praised the Ministry of Coal's efforts for the expedited implementation of coal gasification in the country.
He pointed out that India’s journey into coal gasification began well before 2018, particularly at the Talcher fertiliser plant when the feasibility of such initiatives was still being debated.
Saraswat mentioned that initial feedback from the industry raised doubts regarding the feasibility of gasifying Indian coal, primarily due to its high ash content.
Typically, Indian coal has a high ash content that ranges from 25% to 45%, unlike coals from other nations, which usually have lower ash levels.
Thus, it is crucial to align the choice of coal gasification technology with the specific characteristics of Indian coal to ensure effective, high-availability operations at the most economical cost.
The workshop organized by NITI Aayog aimed to deliberate on both Indian and global coal gasification technologies that could be suitable for coal with high ash content.
With the world’s fourth-largest coal reserves totaling 378 billion tonnes and 199 billion tonnes of proven reserves, India is committed to utilizing these resources sustainably while reducing reliance on imports through the promotion of coal gasification.
The Ministry of Coal has introduced a scheme for coal gasification, providing Rs 8,500 crore in Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to back public and private sector gasification projects.
Vikram Dev Dutt, Secretary of the Ministry of Coal, reiterated the national goal of enhancing the use of India’s extensive coal reserves by employing cleaner and more efficient technologies.
He stressed the government's dedication to sustainability, which includes allocating specific funds to support environmentally friendly initiatives.
Professor Martin Grabner from Fraunhofer IKTS, Germany, offered international perspectives on coal gasification technologies, sharing insights from his comprehensive industrial experience.
His presentation provided essential guidance for adapting global best practices to fit India’s distinctive coal composition and industrial framework.
Following these discussions, pilot-scale initiatives led by IIT Delhi, Thermax, BHEL, and CIMFR shared their insights into the indigenously developed coal gasification technologies.
These initiatives collectively challenge the long-held belief that Indian coal is non-gasifiable and represent a significant advancement towards cleaner, scalable, and domestically focused coal utilization.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognise India's efforts in leveraging its coal resources efficiently. The commitment to exploring innovative gasification technologies not only aids in energy independence but also aligns with sustainability goals, fostering a robust energy future for the nation.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is coal gasification?
Coal gasification is a process that converts coal into gas, which can be used for energy production. This method allows for cleaner combustion and can utilize coals with varying ash content.
Why is high ash content in coal a concern?
High ash content can complicate the gasification process and reduce efficiency, making it essential to choose appropriate technologies that can accommodate these characteristics.
How does India's coal reserve rank globally?
India possesses the fourth-largest coal reserves in the world, with significant amounts available for gasification and energy production.
What initiatives support coal gasification in India?
The Indian government has introduced funding schemes, including Rs 8,500 crore in Viability Gap Funding, to support coal gasification projects across both public and private sectors.
What role does technology play in coal gasification?
Technology is crucial in optimizing the gasification process, particularly in adapting to the unique characteristics of Indian coal, to ensure efficient and sustainable energy production.
