Daily Hot Topic
Topic : Coal Blending in India
GS-3 Mains : Economy
Revision Notes
Why in News ?
- Government directive (June 2024): Thermal power plants to continue blending imported coal with domestic coal till Oct 15 (reduced from 6% to 4% blend).
- Aims to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during summer.
About Coal Blending
- Mixing different coals to achieve desired qualities for efficient combustion, emission control.
- Used to meet India’s growing energy demand for power generation.
Benefits
- Efficiency: Blending maintains consistent heat output in power plants.
- Supply Stability: Mitigates supply fluctuations by blending imported coal.
- Quality Enhancement: Improves combustion efficiency and reduces emissions through blending with higher quality coal.
- Environmental: Lowers emissions of SO2 and particulate matter by blending coals with varying ash and sulfur content.
Challenges
- Logistics: Requires robust planning for procurement, transportation, and storage of diverse coals.
- Quality: Maintaining consistent coal quality from different sources can be difficult.
- Regulations: Constant monitoring and adaptation needed to comply with environmental regulations.
Government’s Approach
- Open General License (OGL): Frees coal imports for consumers.
- Regular Reviews: Ministry of Coal reviews to expedite coal block development.
- Mines Act Amendment (2021): Allows captive mine owners to sell surplus coal in open market.
- Single Window Clearance: Speeds up coal mine operationalization.
- 100% FDI in Coal Mining: Boosts commercial mining.
- Coal India Initiatives: Expansion of existing mines, opening new mines, mechanization/modernization for increased production.
Conclusion
- Coal blending is a strategic approach to optimize energy production and environmental concerns.
- Effective blending techniques can improve power plant efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability.
- Coal blending will play a crucial role in India’s journey towards a sustainable energy future.
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