India’s First Underground Coal Gasification Project Begins in Jharkhand
The Ministry of Coal has launched India’s first-ever pilot project for Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) at the Kasta coal block in Jamtara District, Jharkhand. This initiative, under Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL), aims to convert coal into valuable gases like methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide through in-situ gasification.
These gases have many industrial uses, including producing synthetic natural gas, chemical feedstocks for fuels, fertilizers, and explosives. UCG helps unlock coal deposits that are not economically feasible to extract using conventional mining techniques.
This pilot project is a significant milestone for Coal India Limited (CIL) and its subsidiaries, positioning India at the forefront of coal gasification technologies. The Ministry of Coal approved a comprehensive policy framework for UCG in December 2015, and Coal India chose the Kasta coal block to deploy UCG technology adapted to India’s conditions.
Managed by Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) in partnership with the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute (CMPDI) in Ranchi and Ergo Exergy Technologies Inc. (EETI) from Canada, the project will last two years and is divided into two phases. The first phase, which began on June 22, 2024, involves creating a technical feasibility report through drilling boreholes and testing core samples. The second phase will focus on pilot-scale coal gasification.
This research and development project, funded by the CIL R&D Board, highlights the collaboration between Eastern Coalfields Limited and Ergo Exergy as key implementing agencies. The successful execution of this pilot project is expected to open transformative opportunities for India’s energy sector, demonstrating the sustainable and efficient use of the nation’s coal resources.
The Ministry of Coal is committed to supporting the successful implementation of this pioneering project and anticipates a positive impact on India’s energy landscape. This initiative signifies an advancement in coal gasification technology, enhancing energy security and fostering sustainable development. As the pilot project progresses, it aims to establish new benchmarks in coal resource utilization, contributing significantly to India’s journey towards energy independence.
