Coal

Mineral Category: Fuel Mineral

Overview: Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock, formed as layers called coal seams. Coal is mostly carbon with variable amounts of other elements, chiefly hydrogen, sulfur, oxygen, and nitrogen.[1] It is a fossil fuel, formed when plants decay into peat which is converted into coal by the heat and pressure of deep burial over millions of years.

Key Uses & Industries Served:

• Power Generation
• Iron & Steel Industry
• Cement Industry
• Industrial Fuel

Importance to Infrastructure / Economy: As the cornerstone of our energy basket, coal remains indispensable, contributing to over half of our primary energy needs and serving as the backbone of our industries. Over the past decade, thermal power, predominantly fueled by coal, has consistently accounted for more than 70% of our total power generation. Despite commendable strides in promoting renewable energy sources, the sheer growth in electricity demand necessitates a continued reliance on thermal power, with projections indicating its share to be 55% by 2030 and 27% by 2047.

Projects Overview: CMDC in Joint Venture with MPSMC holds coal resources through the Kerwa Coal Block, which spans approximately 1113 hectares and contains estimated geological reserves of about 271 million tonnes in the Korba district of C.G. The coal block forms an important energy resource asset and contributes towards meeting the growing demand for thermal coal for power generation and industrial use. The deposit holds strong potential to support energy security and regional economic development.