Keystone Energy Systems, and PES Engineers bagged a bid for a waste-to-charcoal project from NVVN Limited, a subsidiary of NTPC Limited, to convert municipal solid waste (MSW) to torrefied charcoal (green coal).
The project is set to change India’s waste-to-energy sector with a waste-to-charcoal project near village Suthani, Sahjanwa, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.
Keystone, the technology partner for the project, will implement torrefaction technology, which involves the thermal treatment of input in an oxygen-deficient environment, to produce a cleaner, more energy-dense form of charcoal known as green coal.
The project will convert 500 tons per day (TPD) of MSW to green coal, providing sustainable energy while addressing crucial waste management issues. The project will roll out in phases, with the first reactor expected by December 2024 and will reach full operational capacity, with three reactors, by September 2025. The coal is ideal for co-firing with traditional fossil fuels in thermal power plants, cement plants and steel plants among others.
Saurabh Kumar, Founder and CEO, Keystone Energy Systems and Partner Keystone Greentech said, “The project represents a significant leap forward in our mission to enhance waste-to-energy solutions and reduce our carbon footprint. Converting waste into green coal addresses two pressing issues: energy security for an expanding economy and effective waste management. As India’s energy demands continue to rise, innovative solutions like this are essential. Our commitment underscores our dedication to sustainable energy and environmental stewardship. India faces a significant challenge with the growing energy demand and with its increasing volumes of MSW, which often end up in landfills, causing severe environmental and health issues. The torrefaction plant will tackle both issues by converting MSW into green coal with a high calorific value”.
The project aligns with India’s waste management strategy and addresses the projected increase in MSW to 165 million tons by 2030 with a growth rate of around 16% per year. The waste-to-charcoal torrefaction industry shows significant potential for growth and innovation, as evidenced by NTPC’s interest in the technology with tenders for a total combined MSW input of 2,900 TPD and many more in the pipeline.
The technology aligns with the Swachh Bharat Mission and six UN Sustainable Development Goals and not only reduces landfill waste, but also lowers carbon emissions for a greener environment. As per the press release, the project will benefit the local communities through new job creation, improved waste management practices and reduced environmental pollution.
