SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
Institutions: Ministry of Coal
The Ministry of Coal organised a high-level roadshow in Mumbai to showcase both surface and underground coal gasification (UCG) technologies to policymakers, industry leaders, investors and technology providers. The event emphasised using coal gasification as a tool to convert Indiaβs large coal reserves into cleaner energy, chemical feedstocks, and hydrogen, thereby reducing import dependence. Key enablers discussed included scaling indigenous technologies, strengthening research & development, innovating business models, and forging partnerships with private players. A committee has been constituted to review mining plan guidelines to incorporate UCG-specific provisions, and efforts are underway to streamline environmental and regulatory approvals and include such provisions in upcoming coal mine auctions.
Positioning coal gasification, especially underground methods, as a cornerstone of Indiaβs energy transition signals a shift to cleaner utilisation of coal without abandoning domestic reserves. Regulatory reforms, investment mobilisation, and aligning coal gasification with environmental standards could enable India to balance energy security with emissions goals and reduce reliance on imported feedstocks.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders: What regulatory, environmental, and financial safeguards must be built into coal gasification projects to ensure they genuinely reduce emissions, protect local communities and water resources, and are economically viable?
Follow the full news here: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2166006