India Pushes Coal Bed Methane Exploration Nationwide
The Indian government has launched an ambitious drive to expand coal bed methane (CBM) production in unexplored and underutilised coal-bearing regions, signalling a strategic push to diversify domestic energy sources while reducing carbon emissions. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Coal in collaboration with Coal India Limited (CIL) and its subsidiaries, aims to leverage India’s substantial coal resources to generate cleaner, methane-based energy for power and industrial use.
CBM, a form of natural gas trapped in coal seams, is increasingly recognised as a low-carbon alternative to conventional fossil fuels. Officials highlight that India, holding the world’s fifth-largest proven coal reserves, has an estimated CBM potential of 92 trillion cubic feet distributed across 12 states, including Jharkhand, West Bengal, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. By tapping into these resources, the government seeks to strengthen domestic energy security while supporting climate-conscious energy policies.The exploration drive targets both unexplored coal-bearing areas and abandoned or de-coaled mines that are no longer viable for conventional extraction. Bharat Coking Coal Limited, a CIL subsidiary, has already awarded one CBM block in Jharkhand’s Jharia region, with 40 blocks awarded so far and 15 currently under active exploration and development. These efforts underscore a shift towards utilising previously neglected sites to extract energy without expanding traditional mining operations, reducing environmental disruption and enhancing economic efficiency.
Current CBM production stands at approximately 2.27 million metric standard cubic metres per day (MMSCMD). The government aims to more than double this output to 5 MMSCMD by 2027–28, in line with broader policy objectives to curb imported natural gas dependence. Industry analysts note that achieving this target will require investment in advanced drilling technologies, robust regulatory support, and collaboration with private and international energy companies, who are increasingly exploring India’s CBM potential.The strategic expansion of CBM aligns with India’s urban and industrial growth priorities. Methane from coal seams can supply power to energy-intensive sectors, support industrial clusters, and contribute to cleaner urban energy grids. By offering a domestic source of low-carbon gas, CBM can also help meet the energy demands of smart cities and infrastructure projects without further increasing the country’s greenhouse gas footprint.
Experts suggest that the CBM sector presents significant opportunities for innovation in drilling and methane capture, while providing local employment and regional development benefits. Transparent monitoring, sustainable extraction practices, and integration with India’s broader clean energy strategy will be essential to maximise benefits without compromising environmental safeguards.With supportive policy frameworks, emerging technology, and targeted investment, India’s coal bed methane programme could emerge as a critical component of the country’s energy transition, balancing industrial growth, urban energy needs, and climate resilience over the next decade.
