Methanol Economy: Energy Transition & Decorbonising India

Topical 15: The Energy Transition

METHANOL ECONOMY: ENERGY TRANSITION & DECORBONISING INDIA

Energy plays a crucial role and is considered as key indicator of economic development & overall progress of any country. Timely and sufficient availability of high-quality energy at an affordable price is of great importance, as it ensures the operation of the economy and leads to sustainable growth. Majority of the countries are dependent on fossil fuels for their energy demand and are seized with the problem of establishing a balance between environment & technologies to minimize the impact of fossil fuel on the environment. Sheer size of developing countries in terms of size and population majority being in Asia & Africa coupled with huge scope for growth means their energy demand is set to grow by more than that of any other part of the world in the coming decades.

Various countries commitment to achieving net-zero emissions as stated at Conference of Parties (COP), necessitates a transition to clean energy. Interruption in energy or failure to meet the increase in energy demand leads to bottleneck in economy. With soaring crude oil demand and import bills draining foreign exchange, the need for an alternative reliable fuel is imperative to enhance economic stability and growth of developing countries.

Reasons outlined above signals for development reliable fuel of global relevance for shifting to alternate cleaner fuels to fulfil commitments of net zero, growing energy demand and environmentally sustainable development.

ENERGY TRANSITION ROADMAP FOR INDIA

Indian govt. has prepared a robust roadmap for energy transition, few of them are increasing power generation capacity from renewable energy like solar and wind, unveiling National Green Hydrogen Mission for reduction in dependence on imported fossil fuels and feedstock, National Policy on Bio Fuels etc. Further, final roadmap for ‘Methanol Economy’ being worked out by National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog and will be unveiled soon.

ENERGY TRANSITION & DECARBONISATION: METHANOL AS A FUEL

Methanol (CH3OH) is a liquid alcohol fuel that can be synthesized from various feedstocks, including natural gas, coal, biomass, and carbon dioxide. The emergence of affordable renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, and hydropower has enabled the production of "green methanol," which is environmentally friendly and significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Methanol plays crucial role in chemical industry as a base material for manufacturing wide range of products such as polymer fibres for the textile industry, plastics for packaging, glues, adhesives, diapers, paints, and various solvents among others. Additionally, methanol can be utilized as a fuel in the transportation sector, either by blending it with gasoline or diesel fuels with minor engine modifications or as a standalone fuel. Green methanol is a cleaner and more sustainable choice for both industrial and transportation purposes, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants.

Different volumes of methanol blends such as M5, M15, M85 or M100 can be used depending upon the application. China world’s 2^nd largest economy, now uses methanol as a vehicle fuel in blends ranging from five percent to 100 percent (‘M5' to ‘M100'), with a view to take-up of entirely methanol-powered vehicles.

The Methanol Economy is a concept that advocates using methanol as a versatile and efficient energy carrier to promote greener and more sustainable future. It also facilitates the development of hydrogen economies and thus has gained attention as a potential alternative to traditional fossil fuels, addressing energy and environmental challenges. Methanol holds strategic importance in India's efforts to achieve decarbonization and enhance energy security.

FUTURE ROADMAP FOR METHANOL ECONOMY

• Production of methanol from Indian high ash coal from indigenous technology.
• Production of methanol through carbon capture technology.
• Bio-mass, Stranded Gas & MSW for methanol production.
• Utilization of methanol & DME in transport sector like railways, road, marine and defence, Industrial Boilers, Diesel Gensets & Power generation & Mobile towers etc.
• Utilization of methanol and DME as domestic cooking fuel- cook stoves.
• Utilization of methanol in fuel cell applications in Marine, Gensets and Transportation

This study explores the pivotal role of methanol in driving India's energy transition and advancing decarbonization initiatives. It examines the multifaceted benefits of methanol as a clean energy source, emphasizing its potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable energy practices. Additionally, the paper underscores the importance of reducing India's reliance on fossil fuels, particularly in the context of achieving energy security and contributing to global efforts for a cleaner & more sustainable future.