CASE Group is taking the lead in India's push for energy sufficiency and is poised to bring about a paradigm shift in the nation's balance of payments.

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CASE Group is at the forefront of India's endeavors to attain energy self-sufficiency, aiming to catalyze a substantial shift in the nation's balance of payments. Despite a population exceeding 1.5 billion, India's per capita energy consumption stands at a mere 631 kg of oil equivalent. In contrast, China boasts a per capita energy consumption of over 2224 kg, while the USA's figure surpasses 6800 kg.

At present, India boasts the world's 5th largest economy, with a GDP reaching approximately 3.5 trillion dollars. Yet, aspiring to ascend to the position of the 3rd largest economy entails substantial energy demands for the nation. This poses a conundrum. Should India persist in its heavy dependence on crude oil as the primary energy source, the consequence would be a further deterioration of its balance of payments and a depreciation of the Indian Rupee against the US Dollar. This not only amplifies the cost of India's imports but also sustains reliance on other nations for crude oil imports.

To tackle this challenge, Roger Kumar has proactively pinpointed a solution. He advocates for the adoption of coal gasification technology to mitigate India's reliance on crude oil imports by generating hydrogen, methanol, and various chemicals such as ammonia and ammonium nitrate. This has the potential to revolutionize India's energy landscape. The nation possesses vast coal reserves exceeding 300 billion metric tons, ready to be tapped. Leveraging the technology at the disposal of CASE Group, India can utilize coal gasification to produce hydrogen and a range of chemicals, including diesel and DME.

Presently, the production of green hydrogen, integral for sustainable energy, is cost-intensive through electrolysis. However, opting for the coal gasification route will render hydrogen more cost-effective, enabling its widespread use as a primary fuel in industries and vehicles. This shift has the potential to make India entirely self-sufficient in energy. Moreover, the process allows for the capture of all CO2 emissions, which can be utilized in the production of methanol, dry ice, and various other chemicals. Implementing Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) can enable India to realistically attain its goal of carbon neutrality by 2070, as outlined by the Honourable Prime Minister. By achieving energy independence and carbon neutrality, India can position itself as a global leader.

Currently, conventional thermal power projects in India generate electricity through direct coal combustion. However, this outdated method presents challenges in effectively managing emissions such as SPM (suspended particulate matter), SOx (sulphur oxides), and NOx (nitrogen oxides). To address these environmental concerns, these power plants can undergo a transformation to adopt Gasification technology. Gasifiers can employ cleaner processes to convert coal into syngas or hydrogen, subsequently powering gas turbines for electricity generation. Termed as integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC), this innovative approach ensures enhanced environmental performance, increased efficiency, and the capability to capture greenhouse gases.

Furthermore, India has set a target to gasify 100 million metric tons of coal by 2030, as outlined by the Honourable Prime Minister. This ambitious objective can be readily accomplished through the gasification route. Moreover, India can leverage its coal reserves not only for power generation but also for the production of chemicals and synthetic natural gas (SNG). These commodities can be exported to other nations at competitive prices, fostering a positive impact on India's balance of payments and enhancing its geopolitical influence. This strategic move would make India's interests a compelling force on the global stage, difficult for other countries to overlook.

 

Moreover, CASE Group is contemplating the application of this technology to establish plants in African nations. These countries possess abundant coal resources but face challenges in terms of technology and finances. By introducing gasification technology, these African plants can not only manufacture chemicals but also integrate Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) solutions. This makes them eligible for CCUS funding from the USA and Europe. Additionally, India's Import Export Bank actively supports these initiatives by providing financial aid to foreign projects aligned with India's objectives. This creates opportunities for implementing Build Own and Operate (BOO) projects in other countries, allowing India to earn foreign currency regularly.

Roger Kumar, the founder and Managing Director of CASE Group, founded the company in January 1993. He holds a degree in mechanical engineering from NIT Kurukshetra and has played a pivotal role in the success of various segments within CASE Group. His contributions extend to coal gasification, Scale-Ban (a non-chemical water treatment equipment), water cooling towers, air pollution control equipment, and turnkey steel projects.

Roger Kumar is also certified as an Independent Director (ID) by the Indian Institution of Corporate Affairs (IICA) under the aegis of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India.

CASE Group remarkable journey and achievements are now featured in Forbes Magazine We're thrilled to share this recognition and milestone with our incredible community.

Discover how CASE Group is spearheading energy self-sufficiency and leading the way in [Coal Gasification technology].

Read the full article in Forbes Magazine