NMDC Limited, a public sector undertaking, has announced its commitment to achieving Net Zero operational emissions by 2047. This ambitious target covers Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions from direct fuel and electricity consumption. The company’s roadmap includes six key strategies focused on energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, and low-carbon practices, aiming for a minimum 90% reduction in operational emissions.
NMDC Commits to Net Zero by 2047
Hyderabad: State-run iron ore producer NMDC Limited has set a significant target to achieve Net Zero operational emissions by 2047. This commitment encompasses Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, which arise from direct fuel consumption and electricity consumption respectively. The decision is a key part of the company’s broader strategy to progressively reduce its carbon footprint and transition towards more environmentally sustainable mining practices.
Key Strategies for Decarbonisation
NMDC’s Net Zero roadmap outlines six core strategies to achieve its ambitious goal. These include enhancing energy efficiency, integrating renewable energy sources, electrifying its operational fleet, adopting low-carbon fuels, implementing Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) technologies, and focusing on demand-side management. The company aims for a minimum 90% reduction in operational emissions as part of its Net Zero pathway, with any remaining emissions to be addressed through offsetting measures.
Existing and Future Initiatives
The company has already initiated several projects to increase its reliance on renewable energy, such as a 10.5 MW wind energy facility in Chitradurga and solar power installations across its operational sites. Beyond Scope 1 and 2 emissions, NMDC is also focusing on its logistics infrastructure. The upcoming slurry pipeline project is expected to offer a greener transportation solution, reducing dependence on conventional transport methods. Furthermore, NMDC plans to increase the proportion of iron ore moved via rail freight, supported by infrastructure development, to lower the carbon intensity associated with mineral transportation.
Phased Implementation
The Net Zero roadmap will be implemented in three phases: a short-term phase from FY 2026 to FY 2030, a medium-term phase from FY 2030 to FY 2040, and a long-term phase from FY 2040 to FY 2047. The initial phase will focus on energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and electrification, with subsequent phases incorporating deeper decarbonisation measures and emerging technologies.
Source: BSE
