India is looking at new ways to produce energy and reduce its dependence on imported fuels. New technologies that can convert domestic resources into useful energy products are gaining attention.
Reliance Industries is planning a major coal-to-gas project in Andhra Pradesh with an estimated investment of ₹43,000 crore. The proposed project aims to convert underground coal into gas.
According to a draft agreement with the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board, the project will be developed in two phases.
The first phase will involve an investment of around ₹3,000 crore for exploration, geological studies and pilot trials. The second phase, estimated at ₹40,000 crore, will move forward only after successful trials and the required approvals.
The project could create around 5,000 direct jobs and 35,000 indirect jobs, according to the report.
Reliance secured two coal blocks in Andhra Pradesh in April through commercial auctions. The proposed project could support India’s wider efforts to expand coal gasification and reduce fuel imports.
