Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Flue-Gas Desulphurisers (FGDs) , Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC)

Mains level: India's energy mix

coal

Central Idea

Globally, 80% of energy comes from fossil fuels like oil, coal, and gas. In contrast, renewable sources like solar and wind contributed only 2.4% in 2022.
India, with its energy supply per capita well below the global average, faces the dual challenge of meeting growing energy demands and pursuing sustainable development.

Need for Electricity Security

Stable and Affordable Power: Ensuring a reliable electricity supply that meets increasing demands at an affordable cost is crucial.
Renewables’ Minor Role: Despite India’s significant potential for renewable energy, it made up only a small portion of the energy mix in 2022.
Coal’s Predominance: In FY 2022-2023, coal-fired thermal power plants (TPPs) generated 74.3% of India’s electricity, driven by escalating demand and the need to support major industries.

India’s Global Emission Share: India’s cumulative emissions from coal-fired power plants and followed by industry account for just 3.3% of the global total (US-EPA), highlighting its role in global development.
Sustainable Development Imperative: Catering to the energy needs of 17% of the world’s population, India must ensure that sustainable development is more than a slogan.

Dependency on Critical Battery Materials: Most materials for grid-scale battery storage are controlled by a few countries, posing energy security risks. Cost-effective batteries are expected post-2030.
Efficiency and Nuclear Expansion: India needs to improve TPP efficiency, expand nuclear energy, and enhance pumped storage to integrate more renewables.

Future Projections: India’s national grid could absorb more renewable electricity by 2031-2032, but cost differences with coal-fired TPPs pose challenges.
Domestic Coal Dependence: With 96% of coal for TPPs sourced domestically, coal capacity in India is expected to grow significantly.

High Ash Content: Indian coal’s high ash content causes erosion and performance issues in TPPs.
Transportation Issues: Long-distance transport of unwashed coal strains transportation systems and raises environmental concerns.
Coal Washing: Requiring miners to supply only washed coal to TPPs over 500 km away can reduce emissions and pollution.

Sulphur Emissions: Despite Indian coal’s lower sulphur content, tall stacks and weather conditions lead to sulphur dioxide emissions.
Climate and Cost Implications: Installing FGDs in TPPs increases coal consumption, reduces efficiency, and requires significant investment.

Advanced Technologies: Supercritical and Ultra-Supercritical technologies can lower carbon emissions.
IGCC for Carbon Capture: Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) plants can capture CO2, aiding in low-carbon electricity generation.
Government Incentives: Promoting IGCC or Advanced Ultra-Supercritical Technology (AUSC) before 2030 can foster low-carbon initiatives.

The challenge of global warming arises from all fossil fuels, not just coal.
The principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” should guide global climate change efforts.
India’s journey towards low-carbon development is essential.