In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Panchamrit’ announcement during COP-26 and to progress towards the goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2070, the government has taken significant steps for promoting renewables initiatives towards reducing carbon footprints.

With focus on enhancing renewable energy capacity, the Ministry of Coal has set an ambitious net-zero electricity consumption plan for Coal/Lignite PSUs. Recognising the pivotal role of renewables in mitigating environmental impact, the ministry is actively promoting the deployment of both rooftop solar and ground-mounted solar projects across mining facilities.

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Furthermore, innovative plans are underway to develop solar parks within the reclaimed mining areas as well as other suitable lands, leveraging underutilised land resources for sustainable energy generation. This strategic initiative is aligned with the government’s updated NDC target to achieve 50 per cent cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030, an official release on Tuesday said.

In order to minimise the carbon footprints of mining, the ministry has issued directives to coal companies to accelerate the adoption of solar energy solutions. This includes the installation of rooftop solar panels on all government buildings and the establishment of solar projects in de-coaled areas and other suitable lands, effectively harnessing solar potential in previously utilized spaces.

Presently, the combined solar capacity installed by leading coal companies, including Coal India Limited (CIL), NLC India Limited (NLCIL), and SCCL, stands at about 1700 MW, supplemented by an additional 51 MW from wind mills. Looking towards the future, the coal sector aims to ramp up renewable energy capacity to over 9 GW by the year 2030, signalling a profound commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

The plan for “Net Zero” electricity consumption holds immense promise and benefits for the future. By embracing renewable energy sources, it facilitates a significant reduction in carbon emissions, thereby combating climate change and promoting environmental preservation.

Additionally, the project fosters technological innovation and advancement in the renewable energy sector, driving economic growth and job creation. As a result, the project is poised to catalyse economic growth and job creation, driving India’s transition towards a green economy. Further, the “Net Zero” electricity consumption plan is primed to usher in a transformative paradigm shift heralding a brighter and cleaner future characterized by a resilient and sustainable energy landscape that meets the needs of present and future generations alike.