The Ministry of Coal spearheads a transformative initiative to diversify Coal CPSEs, aiming to bolster sustainability and significantly contribute to India’s energy security. Aligned with the government’s vision of fostering a resilient and sustainable energy ecosystem, the Ministry’s initiatives encompass a broad spectrum, including renewables, coal gasification, and critical minerals exploration.
Diversification into Renewable Energy
The Ministry is steering coal CPSEs towards renewable energy ventures, including solar and wind power projects. With a collective solar capacity of 1700MW and plans to reach 9000MW by 2030, coal companies are focusing on various solar and wind projects, including rooftop installations and solar parks in reclaimed mining areas.
Embracing Pumped Storage Power
Initiating Pump Storage Projects (PSP) in de-coaled coal mines is a strategic move to leverage solar energy for hydroelectricity. With feasibility studies underway, coal giants aim to repurpose abandoned mines for PSPs, fostering sustainable development and optimizing land use.
Harnessing Geothermal Energy
A groundbreaking project in the Manuguru area of SCCL Command aims to harness geothermal energy for power generation. By establishing a pilot demonstration unit, the Ministry endeavors to produce clean and reliable electricity, setting the stage for future scaling up and standardization of geothermal power generation.
Advancing Green Hydrogen and Ammonia Projects
Collaborating with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, the Ministry of Coal explores projects on Green Ammonia/Hydrogen. Surplus land parcels are earmarked for feasibility studies, aligning with India’s renewable energy goals and promoting sustainable energy alternatives.
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Promoting Coal Gasification
With a target of gasifying 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030, the Ministry launches a financial assistance scheme to incentivize Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects. Joint ventures with BHEL and GAIL signify significant strides towards realizing the National Coal Gasification Mission, ensuring energy security and fostering economic growth.
Forward Integration with Pit-head TPPs
Efforts towards forward integration include setting up power plants at pitheads for efficient energy production. NLCIL’s plans for a 3X800 MW pit-head thermal power plant in Odisha and CIL’s ventures in Madhya Pradesh and Odisha underscore the Ministry’s commitment to sustainable operations and energy security.
Exploration and Development of Critical Minerals
Recognizing the surge in clean energy resources, the Ministry prioritizes exploration and development of critical minerals like lithium and cobalt. Partnerships with overseas entities and exploration efforts domestically align with global fossil fuel transition goals and ensure a stable supply of strategic minerals.
The Ministry of Coal’s initiatives epitomize India’s commitment to sustainable energy development and resource efficiency. Through diversification, innovation, and strategic partnerships, the Ministry paves the way for a resilient and sustainable energy future, ensuring India’s energy security and contributing to global environmental goals.
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