The Business Bytes
New Delhi, November 8, 2024 (TBB Bureau): In a global first, state-owned power giant NTPC has successfully converted captured carbon dioxide (CO2) into methanol at its Vindhyachal plant, marking a groundbreaking achievement in sustainable fuel production and carbon management. NTPC announced on Friday that the CO2, captured from flue gases, was synthesized with hydrogen — produced from a PEM electrolyser — and subsequently converted into methanol.
“This innovative project represents the first-ever implementation of CO2 capture and CO2-to-methanol technology in the world,” stated NTPC Chairman Gurdeep Singh during the company’s 50th Raising Day celebration. “This milestone underlines our commitment to pioneering carbon management solutions and advancing sustainable fuels,” he added.
NTPC has also been actively pursuing research in Gen-4 ethanol, green urea, and sustainable aviation fuel. The company recently developed and tested India’s first indigenous catalyst for methanol synthesis and is making strides in hydrogen technology, carbon capture, and other cutting-edge sustainable innovations.
On this occasion, the NTPC Chairman also introduced hydrogen-fuel buses set to operate in Leh, highlighting the company’s commitment to green transportation and clean energy. Additionally, NTPC unveiled its new 50-year anniversary logo, featuring an infinity loop symbolizing continuous growth, resilience, and excellence, embodying NTPC’s legacy of “50 years of powering growth and creating infinite possibilities.”
In further celebration of NTPC’s achievements, Gurdeep Singh recognized the contributions of NTPC employees and honored the outstanding accomplishments of their children. New IT applications were also launched, along with a special comic book showcasing NTPC’s Girl Empowerment Mission (GEM) — the company’s flagship CSR initiative, which has positively impacted over 10,000 girls from rural areas.
Reflecting on NTPC’s remarkable journey, Singh paid homage to the company’s founding Chairman, Dr. D.V. Kapoor, and the visionary pioneers who laid NTPC’s foundation. “Our resilience and drive have made NTPC one of India’s top-performing companies. As we look ahead, we remain committed to expanding our Renewable Energy footprint, including nuclear energy, to fuel India’s future sustainably,” he concluded.
