In India, abandoned coal mines to make way for pump storage projects

The site of abandoned coal mines could soon make way for pump storage projects (PSP) in India.

As per a statement issued by the Ministry of Coal, the ministry has initiated a plan to develop PSP on the site of de-coaled mines.

The aim of the plan is to diversify towards alternative sources of energy, the Ministry said in an official statement. Through PSPs, the ministry plans to utilize solar energy for developing hydroelectricity and promoting sustainable development in the coal sector.

In a diversification review meeting chaired by the Secretary of Coal Ministry, Coal India Limited (CIL), the Secretary confirmed that more than 20 abandoned mines have been identified for evaluation and feasibility study for PSP.

Further, directions have been given for holding stakeholder consultations with agencies who may be interested in undertaking such projects and to identify additional sites that can be used for setting up PSP. The business model for these projects may be finalized in consultation with stakeholders and such projects may be implemented in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the state government, private players, and research institutions.

"Such initiative will help promote sustainable development and reduce the carbon footprint of the coal sector," the Ministry of Coal said in a statement.