Raipur : The PEKB has become the first coal mine in Chhattisgarh to operate entirely on solar energy, achieving complete energy self-reliance, according to RRVUNL spokesperson. PEKB is a vital source of coal for electricity generation, supplying nearly 80 million consumers in Rajasthan. The Bhoomi Pujan to commence construction of the 9 MW solar plant within the mining area was performed by Rajasthan Energy Minister Heeralal Nagar in June last year. Developed by Mundra Solar PV Limited, a subsidiary of Adani Green Energy Ltd, the solar facility is expected to reduce approximately 400,000 tonnes of carbon emissions over 25 years—equivalent to planting 2.5 million trees. The plant, spread across about 30 acres of reclaimed land within the mine premises, was inaugurated by MLA Rajesh Agrawal from Ambikapur, marking a significant milestone in renewable energy use within the mining sector. The development contract was awarded to Adani Enterprises through a competitive bidding process by the Rajasthan government, and environmentalists view this initiative as a meaningful step toward energy security and environmental conservation.
In addition, on May 10, India deployed its first hydrogen fuel cell truck at the Chhattisgarh government’s coal block, developed by Adani Enterprises to promote cleaner transportation for mining logistics. Equipped with smart technology and three hydrogen tanks, each truck can carry up to 40 tons of cargo over a range of 200 kilometers, representing a significant advancement in sustainable mining practices.
