Answer:

Introduction:

The transition to sustainable energy sources is a critical global challenge, particularly for a developing economy like India. Coal gasification and liquefaction technologies emerge as pivotal in this scenario, offering a potential bridge towards energy security in a carbon-constrained world.

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Coal Gasification: 

• This technology involves the conversion of coal into syngas (a mixture of carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and other components). 
• This syngas can be used to produce electricity, synthetic natural gas, and other chemicals. India aims to achieve 100 million tonnes of coal gasification by 2030, with significant investments planned. 
• This technology is seen as more efficient than conventional coal burning, as it allows for the dual use of gases – first for electricity generation and then for steam generation.

Coal Liquefaction: 

• Also known as Coal to Liquid (CTL) technology, this process converts coal into liquid fuels like diesel and gasoline. It’s particularly relevant in scenarios of high crude oil prices. 
• The benefit of CTL is that CO2 emissions can be more readily captured than in conventional coal-fired power stations, through carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies. 
• However, without CCS, CTL’s carbon footprint is significantly higher than conventional fuel production.

Environmental Impacts and Feasibility: 

• CTL technology, even with CCS, remains a subject of debate due to its high costs and environmental implications. 
• The captured CO2 from CTL plants can be stored underground, but concerns remain about the overall sustainability of this approach. 
• Despite these challenges, CTL offers a way to utilize India’s substantial coal reserves for liquid fuel production.

India’s Approach and Prospects: 

• The Indian government has taken initiatives to develop these technologies, including setting up gasification plants and encouraging private-public partnerships. 
• There’s an emphasis on developing indigenous technology and attracting foreign investment in domestic CTL projects. 
• This approach aims not only to enhance energy security but also to align with global standards of environmental sustainability.

Conclusion:

In the context of a carbon-constrained world, coal gasification and liquefaction technologies present both opportunities and challenges for India. While they offer a means to utilize abundant coal reserves for energy security, the environmental implications and the feasibility of these technologies in the long term remain critical considerations. Balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability will be key in determining the role these technologies play in India’s energy future​​​​​​​​​​.

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