Can abandoned coal mines prove a boon for solar energy generation? Surprised with the question? But then yes, these abandoned coal mines have proved to be blessing for India as the country has emerged as a global leader in repurposing these coal mines, Recent research highlights a promising opportunity to convert degraded and disused mine lands into productive solar parks—a move that could significantly ease the country’s energy burden while fostering employment and sustainable development.
Landscape of Abandoned Coal Mines in India
India is home to more than 63 abandoned coal mine sites, collectively spanning over 500 square kilometres. These sites hold the potential to generate approximately 27.11 gigawatts (GW) of solar power—equivalent to nearly 37% of India’s current solar energy capacity. States such as Telangana, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh are among the top 20 global regions in terms of land availability from closed mines, making them prime candidates for solar redevelopment.
Global Context: The Coal Phase-Out
Worldwide, around 3,800 coal mines remain operational and produce 95% of the world’s coal. However, with 33 countries pledging to phase out coal, the number of inactive and abandoned coal mines is set to rise. This global shift presents a unique opportunity to convert former coal sites into clean energy hubs, particularly in regions already equipped with grid infrastructure.
Environmental Risks of Abandoned Mines
Left unmanaged, abandoned coal mines pose serious environmental and safety hazards. A major concern is methane leakage, a potent greenhouse gas with a warming potential many times greater than carbon dioxide. Without proper mitigation, these sites could significantly contribute to climate change. Additional risks include ground subsidence, toxic runoff, and potential fatal accidents due to neglected infrastructure.
Global Solar Potential of Former Mine Lands
India is not alone in this opportunity. Countries such as Australia, Indonesia, and the United States also possess vast potential for solar redevelopment on former mine lands. A global analysis has identified 28 countries with abandoned surface coal mines suitable for solar installations, collectively offering a potential of up to 288 GW of solar capacity. The proximity of many of these sites to existing grid networks enhances their viability for large-scale renewable energy projects.
Employment Opportunities from the Energy Transition
Repurposing abandoned coal mines for solar power could bring substantial employment gains. Estimates suggest the creation of around 259,700 permanent jobs across sectors like manufacturing, maintenance, and operations. Additionally, approximately 317,500 temporary jobs could be generated during the construction and development phases. These job gains are expected to surpass the number of projected job losses in the coal sector by 2035, providing a pathway for a just and inclusive energy transition.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the potential, several challenges hinder the redevelopment of abandoned mines for solar use. Community resistance often arises over concerns about land use, environmental impact, and lack of local engagement. Unclear land ownership and the absence of consistent policies for repurposing closed mines also complicate implementation. Addressing these issues through transparent governance, local consultation, and inclusive development planning will be key to the success of such initiatives.
Conclusion
Transforming abandoned coal mines into solar energy parks represents a powerful symbol of India’s energy transition—from polluting fossil fuels to clean, renewable sources. With strategic planning and community-inclusive execution, these sites could become engines of sustainable development, environmental restoration, and economic opportunity.
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India is emerging as a global leader in repurposing abandoned coal mines for solar energy generation. Recent research highlights a promising opportunity to convert degraded and disused mine lands into productive solar parks—a move that could significantly ease the country’s energy burden while fostering employment and sustainable development.
Landscape of Abandoned Coal Mines in India
India is home to more than 63 abandoned coal mine sites, collectively spanning over 500 square kilometres. These sites hold the potential to generate approximately 27.11 gigawatts (GW) of solar power—equivalent to nearly 37% of India’s current solar energy capacity. States such as Telangana, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh are among the top 20 global regions in terms of land availability from closed mines, making them prime candidates for solar redevelopment.
Global Context: The Coal Phase-Out
Worldwide, around 3,800 coal mines remain operational and produce 95% of the world’s coal. However, with 33 countries pledging to phase out coal, the number of inactive and abandoned coal mines is set to rise. This global shift presents a unique opportunity to convert former coal sites into clean energy hubs, particularly in regions already equipped with grid infrastructure.
Environmental Risks of Abandoned Mines
Left unmanaged, abandoned coal mines pose serious environmental and safety hazards. A major concern is methane leakage, a potent greenhouse gas with a warming potential many times greater than carbon dioxide. Without proper mitigation, these sites could significantly contribute to climate change. Additional risks include ground subsidence, toxic runoff, and potential fatal accidents due to neglected infrastructure.
Global Solar Potential of Former Mine Lands
India is not alone in this opportunity. Countries such as Australia, Indonesia, and the United States also possess vast potential for solar redevelopment on former mine lands. A global analysis has identified 28 countries with abandoned surface coal mines suitable for solar installations, collectively offering a potential of up to 288 GW of solar capacity. The proximity of many of these sites to existing grid networks enhances their viability for large-scale renewable energy projects.
Employment Opportunities from the Energy Transition
Repurposing abandoned coal mines for solar power could bring substantial employment gains. Estimates suggest the creation of around 259,700 permanent jobs across sectors like manufacturing, maintenance, and operations. Additionally, approximately 317,500 temporary jobs could be generated during the construction and development phases. These job gains are expected to surpass the number of projected job losses in the coal sector by 2035, providing a pathway for a just and inclusive energy transition.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the potential, several challenges hinder the redevelopment of abandoned mines for solar use. Community resistance often arises over concerns about land use, environmental impact, and lack of local engagement. Unclear land ownership and the absence of consistent policies for repurposing closed mines also complicate implementation. Addressing these issues through transparent governance, local consultation, and inclusive development planning will be key to the success of such initiatives.
Conclusion
Transforming abandoned coal mines into solar energy parks represents a powerful symbol of India’s energy transition—from polluting fossil fuels to clean, renewable sources. With strategic planning and community-inclusive execution, these sites could become engines of sustainable development, environmental restoration, and economic opportunity.