India is significantly advancing its coal gasification efforts in 2025, aiming for a cleaner energy future. This initiative is part of the government's strategy to adopt greener technologies and promote sustainable growth. The Ministry of Coal is actively supporting projects that convert coal into cleaner fuels and chemicals.
Coal gasification transforms coal into syngas, a mixture of carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide. This process enables the production of cleaner fuels and reduces emissions. The government has allocated Rs 8,500 crore as a financial incentive for coal gasification projects, encouraging both public and private sector participation.
A joint venture between Coal India Limited and GAIL (India) Limited is setting up a Coal to Synthetic Natural Gas plant in West Bengal. This plant is expected to produce 80,000 Nm3 per hour of SNG, utilizing 1.9 million tonnes of coal annually. Several companies, including Jindal Steel and Power Limited, New Era Cleantech Solution Private Limited and Greta Energy Limited have been awarded financial incentives for their coal gasification projects in Odisha and Maharashtra.
These projects will convert coal into products like Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) and capture CO2 for conversion into valuable products. These efforts align with India's vision for a developed and environmentally sustainable future by 2047. Key moments to watch include the commissioning of the Coal to Synthetic Natural Gas plant and the progress of the incentivized projects in Odisha and Maharashtra.
The promotion of coal gasification is expected to significantly impact India's energy sector. It will contribute to energy self-reliance, reduce carbon emissions, and foster a cleaner industrial future. This initiative demonstrates India's commitment to sustainable development and technological innovation in the energy sector.