RGTU project for coal-based gasifier

Bhopal, May 11: Under its efforts to provide clean energy solutions, the Rajiv Gandhi Technical University, Bhopal has devised a special project to establish coal-based gasifier for producing methane, which would be used for fulfilling domestic fuel requirements. The proposed clean energy fuel would cost around one third compared to the LPG used these days and the project is likely to be completed by December end this year.

Central Power Research Institute, Bangalore has sanctioned the budget of Rs 3 crore for the project to be pursued by Energy Department at RGPV. The proposed coal based gasifier plant would be established in 3-acre of land and would take just 30 hours to convert the coal into methane. The plant would use steam instead of the air in the combustion process. “The proposed fuel might be used for supplement the domestic fuel like LPG” stated Professor VK Sethi Project in charge and UIT Director RGTU. He added that it might work as a viable clean energy option as it doesn’t have any by products, which might harm the environment. Professor Sethi added that efforts would be made to minimize the production of CO2 in the process. However, he added that profound research is required in the process as one earlier similar project at Ramagundam (Andhra Pradesh), initiated in joint cooperation of Fertilizer Corporation of India and Indian Oil Corporation, failed due to technical snags.

Commenting on the cost of this prospective fuel, Professor Sethi stated that it is likely to cost around Rs 7 per kg. Thus, the cost of this fuel would be around one-third as compared to the LPG cylinders used at present. He also informed that Central Power Research Institute, Bangelore, an undertaking of Union Ministry of Power, has supported the project. He added that they are taking technical support from the chemical engineering experts from reputed institutions of the country. Professor Sethi informed that 3-acre gasifier and bottling plant would be established inside the University campus, but away from University energy-park to avoid any harm to it because of coal. He added that it might prove as viable energy option for the country, as India has coal reserves, which are sufficient for fulfilling the energy requirements for another 50-60 years.