NMDC targets Net Zero operational emissions by 2047

State-owned iron ore producer NMDC has identified energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, electrification of fleet, adoption of low-carbon fuels, Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) and demand-side management as the six key strategies as it eyes achieving Net Zero operational emissions by 2047.

The company has set an overall target of a minimum 90% reduction in operational emissions as part of its Net Zero pathway, with the remaining emissions to be addressed through offsetting measures as the roadmap progresses, NMDC said on Friday.

It said this announcing the company has set a target to achieve Net Zero operational emissions by 2047, covering Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions arising from direct fuel consumption and electricity consumption, respectively. It has decided to progressively reduce the carbon footprint of its operations and transition towards lower-carbon mining practices, NMDC said in a release.

Several initiatives aimed at increasing the share of renewable energy and reducing dependence on conventional energy sources have been undertaken, including a 10.5 MW wind energy facility in Chitradurga and solar power installations across its projects. Beyond Scope 1 and Scope 2, the company’s logistics infrastructure is also expected to contribute to the decarbonisation efforts. The upcoming slurry pipeline project is expected to provide a greener downstream transportation solution by reducing dependence on conventional transportation and associated warehousing requirements, it said.

NMDC also plans to increase the movement of iron ore through rail freight on the back of doubling of railway lines and other supply infrastructure being developed around its operations. Greater use of rail transportation is expected to help reduce the carbon intensity associated with the movement of minerals.

The Net Zero roadmap has been divided into three phases – the short-term will cover FY 2026 to FY 2030, medium-term FY2030 to FY2040 and the long-term will run from FY 2040 to FY 2047.