India begins first underground Coal gasification project in Jharkhand

The Ministry of Coal has launched India’s first Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) pilot project at the Kasta coal block in Jamtara District, Jharkhand. Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) is leading this initiative, which aims to convert coal into useful gases like methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide.

This project, backed by the Ministry, could unlock coal resources that are difficult to mine using traditional methods. It marks a significant achievement for Coal India Limited (CIL) and positions India at the forefront of coal gasification technology.

The project follows a policy approved in December 2015 and is managed by ECL in collaboration with CMPDI Ranchi and Canada’s Ergo Exergy Technologies Inc. (EETI). It will run for two years in two phases. The first phase, starting on June 22, 2024, involves preparing a Technical Feasibility Report. The second phase will focus on actual coal gasification.

Funded by the CIL R&D Board, this project showcases the Ministry’s commitment to innovative energy solutions. It aims to transform India’s energy sector by promoting sustainable and efficient use of coal. The Ministry remains dedicated to supporting this groundbreaking initiative, which enhances energy security and contributes to India’s goal of energy self-reliance.