Context:
The Reserve Bank of India’s latest report highlights a significant surge in global optimism about India’s economic prospects, particularly within the energy sector. This year, green energy projects valued at approximately Rs 700 billion are set to commence, marking a major milestone in investment.
Relevance:
- GS1- Mineral and Energy Resources
- GS3- Environmental Pollution and Degradation
Mains Question:
What is green coal and how does it differ from the traditional coal in terms of advantages offered? Discuss the initiatives taken by India in the production of green coal. (15 Marks, 250 Words).
More on the Report:
- By 2025-26, further project investments are anticipated to reach Rs 765.2 billion, bolstered by progressive policies promoting sustainable energy initiatives.
- Furthermore, India has risen to become the world’s third-largest producer of renewable energy, emphasizing its dedication to sustainable development.
Green Coal:
- Green coal, also known as bio-coal, is an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels, produced from waste materials such as agricultural residue and municipal solid waste (MSW).
- The waste-to-energy process involves the careful collection and treatment of municipal solid waste (MSW), followed by the removal of moisture and the segregation of non-combustible materials.
- The refined waste is then processed to produce high-calorific charcoal powder, which has a higher energy value than traditional coal.
Significance of Green Coal:
- One of the main benefits of green coal is its ability to significantly reduce CO2 emissions. It has become popular due to its potential to replace traditional coal for energy production, thereby cutting down CO2 emissions from coal combustion.
- Replacing one kilogram of coal with green coal can reduce CO2 emissions by approximately two kilograms.
- This is a crucial step towards reducing the carbon footprint of industries reliant on fossil fuels, such as thermal power plants, petrochemical refineries, and cement factories.
- A notable innovation on the horizon is green coal, which has the potential to revolutionize energy production in India.
- Green coal serves as a sustainable alternative to traditional coal and can be seamlessly integrated into existing thermal power plants.
- For instance, a 1,000 MW power plant that consumes around five million tonnes of coal annually could significantly reduce its carbon emissions by replacing just 10 percent of its fossil fuel with green coal.
- This substitution would equate to half a million tonnes of sustainable fuel, reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 2 kg for each kg of coal replaced.
Initiatives in this Direction:
- The National Thermal Power Corporation’s Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited (NVVNL) has launched a commercial green coal facility in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, to produce green coal, also known as torrefied charcoal, from waste. This marks India’s first initiative to produce green coal from agricultural waste and MSW.
- This project, executed by its subsidiary NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Ltd and awarded to Macawber Beekay, features a plant capable of processing 600 tonnes of waste daily.
- The success of NTPC’s Varanasi Harit Koyla Pariyojna, managed by Macawber Beekay Private Limited (MBL), has been a significant milestone.
- The green coal project is a pivotal component of the “Make in India” initiative and marks considerable progress towards the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” mission.
- Following the successful demonstration of this technology in Varanasi, NTPC has commissioned MBL to undertake additional projects, including the establishment of the world’s largest waste-to-green coal plant in Greater Noida.
- Indian companies are increasingly diversifying into green energy solutions, with MBL at the forefront of transforming municipal solid waste into eco-friendly green coal.
Conclusion:
The investments and advancements in India’s energy sector signify a robust commitment to sustainable development and a forward-looking approach to energy production. These efforts not only enhance India’s energy security but also contribute significantly to global environmental goals. The shift towards green coal and renewable energy highlights India’s proactive stance in addressing climate change and promoting a sustainable future.
