Topic: Clean Coal technology
Q6. Clean coal technologies represent a transitional compromise rather than a long-term climate solution. Comment. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question
India’s pursuit of climate mitigation alongside energy security has placed clean coal technologies at the centre of policy debates, making their transitional role and long-term limitations.Key Demand of the question
The question demands a critical comment on the statement by assessing the justification for clean coal technologies in the short run and explaining why they cannot serve as a durable climate solution.Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Set the context of India’s coal dependence, climate commitments, and the emergence of clean coal as a bridging option in the energy transition.Body
- Briefly indicate how clean coal technologies function as a transitional compromise by supporting energy security and moderating emissions intensity.
- Explain why clean coal technologies fall short as a long-term climate solution due to structural carbon lock-in and incompatibility with deep decarbonisation.
Conclusion
Highlight the necessity of limiting clean coal to a time-bound transitional role while prioritising rapid expansion of renewables and low-carbon alternatives.
