The consortium of public sector companies, led by Coal India Ltd, has been given the task of exploring coal gasification as an energy source. This initiative will involve various business models, including the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) model, which will be executed through a tendering process.
Coal India, along with its partners, is focusing on surface coal gasification projects, which do not require new allocations of blocks and can be carried out in existing mines. This falls under the Ministry of Coal, ensuring smooth management of assets and eliminating potential conflicts with the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas.
Coal Secretary Amrit Lal Meena recently addressed stakeholders in Hyderabad, emphasizing the government’s support for coal/gasification projects. Additionally, Coal India Chairman PM Prasad called on interested parties with the technological capacity to collaborate in building a cleaner future and helping achieve the net zero target by 2070.
Furthermore, the union Cabinet approved a scheme to promote coal/lignite gasification projects with an outlay of ₹8,500 crore as an incentive for coal gasification projects under different categories. The scheme includes specific provisions for government PSUs, private sector entities, and demonstration projects to foster innovation and investment in coal gasification.
In conclusion, the consortium of public sector companies, guided by Coal India Ltd, is open to partnering with stakeholders and businesses to actualize coal gasification projects, in line with the government’s commitment to clean energy and sustainable development.
Published on February 18, 2024
