India's Clean Coal Mission: Path to Sustainable Energy

The Economic Survey emphasizes the need for cleaner fuels like coal gasification and hydrogen exploration to lower emissions. Emphasizing renewables and clean coal technologies, the government aims to achieve 100 million tonnes of coal gasification by 2030, with supportive policies and partnerships already in place.

The Economic Survey has highlighted the importance of government initiatives aimed at cleaner fuels, such as the coal gasification mission and the exploration of coal to hydrogen, to reduce emissions and enhance environmental sustainability.

While integrating renewable energy is essential, the immediate focus should also be on adopting clean coal technologies. The survey, tabled in Parliament, noted that ultra super-critical technologies for coal-fired power plants could help lower emissions and boost efficiency.

The government has launched the National Coal Gasification Mission to achieve coal gasification of 100 million tonnes by 2030. This mission sees collaborations with BHEL, GAIL, and IOCL to undertake coal gasification projects. Additionally, policies like a 50% rebate in revenue share and a special auction window for the Non-Regulated Sector aim to promote coal gasification.