Coal India Limited has announced a major research and development investment plan of around ₹1,900 crore by FY2030 as part of its strategy to improve mine productivity, reduce emissions, and align with the evolving energy transition landscape.
The company said the initiative will focus on developing and commercialising cleaner coal technologies while also exploring alternative energy solutions. The move is aimed at strengthening operational efficiency and supporting sustainable energy practices in the long term.
According to a BSE filing, Coal India’s R&D efforts gained momentum in 2024–25 with the establishment of the National Centre for Coal and Energy Research (NaCCER), which operates on a hub-and-spoke model to coordinate innovation activities across institutions.
The company has shifted its focus from proof-of-concept studies to advanced prototype development at Technology Readiness Level 4 and above. Currently, 19 R&D projects with an outlay of ₹225 crore are being implemented in collaboration with reputed scientific institutions under NaCCER’s supervision. Additionally, 13 pilot-scale projects are underway at various Centres of Excellence across the country.
Coal India has also entered into international collaborations, including partnerships with Ergo Exergy of Canada for Underground Coal Gasification at Eastern Coalfields Ltd (ECL), Ericsson of Sweden for deploying 5G technology in the Jhanjra underground mine, and CSIRO of Australia for advanced research cooperation.
The company said these initiatives reflect its commitment to innovation-led growth while supporting India’s broader energy transition goals.
