India marks a significant advancement in carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) technologies with the launch of India’s First CO₂-to-Methanol Pilot Plant in Pune.
About the Project:
Initiating Bodies:
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP): Collaboration between Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi and Thermax Limited.
- Support: Funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
Significance of the Pilot Plant
- Carbon Reduction and Conversion:
- Converts captured CO₂ into methanol, a sustainable fuel source.
- Demonstrates advanced CCU technologies.
- Technological Advancement:
- Acts as a living lab for developing new catalysts and processes.
- Focuses on both pre-combustion and post-combustion carbon capture techniques.
- Decarbonisation Potential: Targets reduction of CO₂ emissions from coal-based thermal power sectors, responsible for 30% of India’s carbon emissions.
Strategic Alignment and Support
- National Commitments: Aligns with India’s Panchamrit target presented at COP 26 for reducing carbon emissions.
- Policy Recommendations:
- Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) and NITI Aayog advocate for a National Mission on CCUS.
- Development of policies to introduce 15% methanol-blended diesel, potentially reducing crude oil imports.
- Government Support: Backed by officials from the Climate, Energy, and Sustainable Technology (CEST) division of DST.
About CO₂-to-Methanol Conversion Process:
- Carbon Capture: Captures CO₂ emissions from industrial sources like power plants or directly from the air using direct air capture technologies.
- Hydrogenation: Reacts captured CO₂ with hydrogen to produce methanol.
- Environmental Impact:
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
- Provides a sustainable alternative fuel, aiding in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
- Current Development Stage:
- Carbon Utilization Technologies like CO₂-to-methanol are less developed compared to capture technologies.
- This pilot plant represents a pioneering effort in advancing these technologies in India.
About Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS):
- Definition:
- Group of technologies for capturing CO₂ from large and stationary emitters like fossil fuel-based power plants.
- Involves transportation of captured CO₂ via pipelines, shipping, rail, or trucks.
- Utilization in various applications or permanent storage in geological formations.
Significance:
- Decarbonisation of Hard-to-Abate Sectors: Targets industries like cement and steel, where fossil fuel use is prevalent.
- Propelling Low-Carbon Hydrogen: Facilitates coal gasification with CCUS to produce low-carbon hydrogen.
- Realization of Net-Zero Targets: Advances in Direct Air Capture technology support India’s net-zero ambitions.
Challenges in CCUS Adoption in India:
- Cost Variability: Carbon capture costs vary across different sectors depending on the CO₂ source and concentration.
- Limited CO₂ Storage:
- Insufficient storage sites, especially for saline aquifers and basaltic formations.
- Lack of geological data on pore space availability hampers storage capacity.
- Infrastructure Deficit: Lack of downstream infrastructure for CO₂ transportation and storage impedes widespread adoption.
Future Prospects:
- Scalability: Insights from the pilot plant will guide the development of commercial-scale operations.
- Sustainable Development: Demonstrates India’s commitment to innovative solutions for carbon management and sustainable energy.
- Economic Benefits:
- Potential reduction in crude oil imports through methanol-blended diesel initiatives.
- Enhances energy security and supports economic growth through sustainable practices.
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Frequently Asked Question:
What is the significance of India’s first CO₂-to-methanol pilot plant?
The pilot plant converts captured CO₂ into methanol, demonstrating advanced carbon capture and utilisation technologies.
Who initiated India’s first CO₂-to-methanol plant?
The project is a public-private partnership between IIT Delhi and Thermax Limited, supported by the Department of Science and Technology.
How does the CO₂-to-methanol conversion process work?
It involves capturing CO₂ emissions and hydrogenating it with hydrogen to produce methanol.
What is the role of CCUS technologies in decarbonisation?
CCUS targets reducing emissions from industries like power, cement, and steel by capturing and storing or utilising CO₂.
What challenges does India face in adopting CCUS technologies?
Challenges include high costs, limited CO₂ storage sites, and infrastructure deficits for CO₂ transportation and storage.