Coal India Eyes Lithium, Plans Gasification Power

Coal India (CIL) is significantly expanding its operations beyond traditional coal mining with a multi-pronged diversification strategy. The company is committing approximately ₹50,000 crore towards coal gasification projects aimed at bolstering energy security and reducing import dependency.

Alongside its gasification initiatives, CIL is actively pursuing overseas critical mineral assets, with a particular focus on lithium. This expansion into minerals is complemented by an ambitious target of establishing 9.5 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by fiscal year 2030.

One of CIL's flagship coal gasification projects, a joint venture in Odisha, has entered its execution phase with a substantial investment. Additional gasification projects are in development stages in West Bengal and Maharashtra, collectively expected to lessen India's reliance on imported chemicals and natural gas.

To facilitate its global mineral acquisitions and enhance its international presence, Coal India has established a subsidiary in Singapore. The company is exploring opportunities in countries like Chile, Argentina, and Australia for lithium and other critical minerals. Renewables form another key pillar of growth, with plans to integrate battery storage with new solar installations.