Energy Conservation

1. Power and Fuel Consumption

Electricity Purchased

Sl. No. Particulars Unit 2024–25 2023–24
I.a Purchased Units M.KWH 867.65 835.42
I.b Total Amount Paid to Supply Agencies (Approx.) Rs. in Crore 642.27 610.05
I.c Rate/Unit (Average) Rs./KWH 7.40 7.30
I.d Specific Consumption of Electricity (Approx.) KWH/Cum 3.71 4.04

Demand of Power

Sl. No. Particulars Unit 2024–25 2023–24
II.a Average Demand MVA 179.59 178.84
II.b Contract Demand MVA 207.40 199.33
II.c % Utilisation % 86.59 89.72

2. Energy Conservation Measures

In order to implement energy efficiency measures in different units and establishments, the following steps were undertaken:

  • Replaced 813 conventional fans with BLDC Fans (Super Fans).
  • Replaced 127 old air conditioners with energy-efficient models.
  • Replaced 1,570 conventional lights with LED lights.
  • Replaced 120 old motors with energy-efficient motors.

Anticipated Outcomes:

  • Estimated energy savings: 1.1 million units.
  • Monetary savings: Rs. 7.763 crore (approximately) for the year 2024–25.
  • Reduction in CO₂ emissions: 1,975 tonnes.

Additional Benefit:

Improvement in Power Factor resulted in a net gain of Rs. 10.83 crore (approximately) in FY 2024–25.

3. Underground Machinery Performance

Equipment 2024–25 (TPD) 2023–24 (TPD)
SDL 183 225
LHD 28 33
Continuous Miner 12 (1,211) 11 (1,310)
Road Header - 1 (44)
Longwall 1 (539) 1 (1,802)
Highwall 2 (1,058) 2 (1,204)

4. Performance of Coal Handling Plants (CHPs)

As of 31st March 2025, the two major CHPs at Sonepur Bazari and Rajmahal handled 24.46 million tonnes (MT) of coal in FY 2024–25, compared to 21.05 MT in FY 2023–24.

5. Major Achievements in 2024–25

  • Issued work order for diversion of 132 kV Tower of DVC to ensure continuity of mining operation at North Searsole Mine.
  • Issued work order for supply and installation of 9 Road Weighbridges to comply with 100% both-side weighment criteria.
  • Installation and commissioning of 3.73 MW Rooftop Solar Plant in ECL is under progress; 850 kW has been commissioned in FY 2024–25.

6. Solar Power Initiatives

Coal India Limited has directed all subsidiaries to prepare modalities/action plans to become Net Zero Companies. Accordingly, ECL has taken initiatives to install solar power projects in its operational areas.

Installed Capacity and Generation

Year Installed Capacity (MW) Generation (Lakh kWh) Savings (Rs. in Lakh)
2023–24 1.906 8.47 42.72
2024–25 2.756 12.55 63.79

Planned Solar Projects for 2024–25

Project Capacity (MWp) Expected Commissioning
Ground Mounted Solar Plant 35.00 June 2025
Rooftop Solar Plant 3.732 September 2025
Floating Solar Plant at Salanpur Area 5.00 Under award process
Ground Mounted Solar Plant at Sonepur Bazari Area 5.00 Under NIT preparation