The Ministry of Coal recently organized a BRICS side event focusing on clean coal technologies, particularly highlighting the significance of coal gasification in enhancing energy security, industrial growth, and cleaner coal utilization. The event saw participation from senior government officials, industry experts, and a BRICS delegation from Russia, Ethiopia, and the UAE. It served as a platform for knowledge exchange among BRICS nations and stakeholders.
Sanoj Kumar Jha, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Coal, emphasized the pivotal role of coal gasification in bolstering India’s energy security and industrial progress. This technology facilitates the conversion of coal into syngas, essential for producing various valuable products like ammonia, methanol, and hydrogen. Jha also pointed out the potential of coal gasification in reducing import reliance and maximizing the use of domestic coal resources.
Furthermore, Jha highlighted the ongoing advancements in coal gasification projects and stressed the importance of collaborative efforts among BRICS countries to advance clean coal technologies. The central government’s commitment to gasify 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030 was reiterated, with a focus on policy backing, financial incentives, assured coal linkages, and coordinated inter-ministerial actions.
Presentations during the event included insights from BHEL on coal gasification technology, updates from Jindal Steel Limited (JSL) and Greta Energy on their coal gasification initiatives, and discussions on the relevance of the technology for BRICS nations. Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) shared progress on the Kasta Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) Pilot Project, while Coal India Limited (CIL) showcased its coal linkage provisions and ongoing coal gasification projects.
An interactive panel discussion covered various aspects of coal gasification, encompassing technology specifics, project economics, challenges in geology and processing, utilization of high-ash Indian coal, and the necessary policy and financial support for broader adoption of this technology.
