The Parsa East and Kanta Basan (PEKB) coal mine in Surguja district, Chhattisgarh, has become the state’s first coal mine to achieve energy self-sufficiency through solar power. This milestone was marked by the inauguration of a 9-megawatt (MW) solar power plant, spanning 30 acres of reclaimed land within the mine site.
The solar facility, developed by Mundra Solar PV Limited, a subsidiary of Adani Green Energy Ltd., is expected to generate approximately 2.137 million units of electricity annually. This output will offset about 17,094 tonnes of carbon emissions per year, equivalent to the environmental benefit of planting 100,000 trees. Over the next 25 years, the project is anticipated to reduce nearly 400,000 tonnes of carbon emissions, aligning with India’s commitment to clean energy and environmental sustainability. The integration of solar power into the PEKB coal mine operations not only contributes to reducing the carbon footprint but also enhances energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This initiative sets a new benchmark in the mining sector, demonstrating that traditional industries can transition towards greener practices without compromising on productivity.
Beyond its renewable energy efforts, the PEKB mine has been actively involved in afforestation and community development. To date, over 1.568 million trees have been planted in the region, and more than 1,000 children are receiving free, quality education through English-medium schools operated by the project. These initiatives underscore the mine’s commitment to balancing industrial development with environmental conservation and social welfare. The successful implementation of the solar power plant at PEKB serves as a model for other coal mines in India, illustrating the feasibility and benefits of integrating renewable energy into traditional mining operations. As the country continues to pursue its goals for sustainable development, the PEKB coal mine stands as a testament to the potential of clean energy solutions in transforming the mining sector.
Also Read :Kerala Approves BPCL’s 150 TPD CBG Plant in Kozhikode
