Coal gasification

July 16, 2023

The Ministry of Coal has set a target to gasify 100 million tonnes of coal by FY 2030 in line with its energy transition plans.

Why in news?

The Coal Ministry announced that it is considering a comprehensive scheme to promote coal gasification projects for both government Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and the private sector with an outlay of Rs 6,000 crores.

About Coal gasification:

It is the process of producing syngas, a mixture consisting primarily of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen (H2), carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and water vapour (H2O) - from coal and water, air and/or oxygen.
During gasification, coal is blown with oxygen and steam while also being heated under high pressure.
In this reaction, oxygen and water molecules oxidize the coal and produce syngas.
Advantages
- Coal gasification can help address local pollution problems.
- It is considered a cleaner option compared to the burning of coal.
- It will help in reducing reliance on imports of natural gas, methanol, ammonia and other essential product
- This initiative holds the potential to alleviate the environmental burden by reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable practices, contributing to India’s global commitments towards a greener future