Coal India Limited (CIL), a Maharatna PSU under the Ministry of Coal, and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), a Maharatna PSU under the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, have entered into a Non-Binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore a coal-to-synthetic natural gas project. This strategic collaboration aims to leverage surface coal gasification technology at Western Coalfields Limited (WCL).
The agreement was signed in Mumbai, showcasing the commitment of these two state-run giants to advancing innovative and sustainable energy solutions. This partnership aligns with the Government of India’s vision to reduce dependency on imported natural gas and explore indigenous coal-based energy alternatives.
Surface coal gasification is a process of converting coal into syngas, which can further be processed to produce synthetic natural gas (SNG). This initiative aims to bolster India’s energy security while promoting cleaner utilization of coal resources.
CIL and BPCL, both Maharatna entities, bring their expertise in coal mining and petroleum processing, respectively, to develop this ambitious project. The collaboration will pave the way for harnessing advanced technology in clean energy production, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainable development.
This MoU marks a significant milestone in India’s energy transition efforts and highlights the strategic importance of partnerships among public sector enterprises.
