Coal sector advances toward energy efficiency, carbon neutrality

Coal sector is at the forefront of leading energy conservation and efficiency measures, recognising the paramount importance of judicious energy resource utilisation.

India is committed to reducing the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45 percent by 2030, as per the updated NDC. In alignment with this, the coal sector is at the forefront of leading energy conservation and efficiency measures, recognising the paramount importance of judicious energy resource utilisation. The significance of this endeavour is that, generally, saving one unit of energy at the consumption level can potentially reduce the need for fresh capacity creation by 2 to 2.5 times.

Over the last 3 years, coal/lignite PSUs have diligently pursued various energy conservation and efficiency measures, encompassing energy audits, transitioning to energy-efficient LED lights, adopting star-rated appliances, installing capacitor banks, utilising auto-timers in street lights, and deploying energy-efficient pumps and electric vehicles. Such energy management initiatives translate directly into a substantial reduction in carbon footprints, aligning with global environmental sustainability goals.

Coal India Limited has entered into an MOU with Energy Efficiency Services Limited to implement comprehensive Energy Efficiency Programmes at CIL and its subsidiaries. This initiative encompasses Building Energy Efficiency Projects (BEEP), the replacement of outdated fans, air conditioners, and conventional light fittings, motors, the adoption of electric vehicles, and the installation of distributed and rooftop solar projects.

In a landmark achievement, Coal/Lignite PSUs have successfully replaced all conventional lights with Energy-Efficient LED lights across command areas, premises, company’s headquarters, all mines, offices, warehouses, colonies, residences, campus, restrooms etc. marking a significant milestone towards commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. The comprehensive implementation demonstrates a commitment to replacing inefficient lighting systems with environmentally friendly alternatives and meeting illumination needs.

From FY 2021–22 to December 2023, coal/lignite PSUs have made commendable efforts towards energy efficiency, including the replacement of 4.24 lakh conventional lights with LED lights, 5357 energy-efficient air conditioners, 83236 super fans, the deployment of 201 electric vehicles, 1583 efficient water heaters, 444 energy-efficient motors for pumps, 2712 auto-timers in street lights, and the installation of capacitor banks. The adoption of energy efficiency measures led to notable accomplishments, yielding a total energy savings of 14.34 crore kWh and financial savings amounting to ₹ 107.6 crore. The initiatives significantly contributed to environmental sustainability, resulting in a total reduction of 1.17 lakh metric tons CO2 equivalent.

The Secretary (Coal) reviewed the Energy Efficiency Measures undertaken by Coal/Lignite PSUs on January 19, 2024, and appreciated the remarkable work being done in the coal sector on this initiative. During the meeting, the secretary (coal) suggested exploring the use of EVs in transportation and mining operations in consultation with the DGMS, undertaking building energy efficiency measures in all the buildings of coal/lignite PSUs in a phased manner, using LNG vehicles in mining operations, etc.

Various initiatives towards energy conservation by Coal/Lignite PSUs reaffirms dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and embracing innovative solutions to enhance energy efficiency across its operations while meeting the energy demands of the nation.

The commitment of coal/lignite PSUs to this initiative aligns with the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration, wherein a voluntary commitment has been made by the G20 and CoP-28 to double the rate of energy efficiency improvement by 2030.