AUSC - GS questions based on daily current affairs

ANSWER: Thermal coal power plants

Explanation:

• Government has approved the research and development of Advanced Ultra Super Critical (AUSC) Technology for Thermal Coal Power Plants.
• The project will enable Indian industries to design, manufacture and commission higher efficiency coal fired power plants with indigenously developed technology and manufacturing processes.
• This will be the first time large power plant equipment will be manufactured with advanced technologies, but without any Technological Collaboration/ Licensing Agreement with foreign companies.
• Power generation from coal contributes to about 38% of CO2 pollution in the atmosphere. 20% reduction in CO2 emission at source combined with 20% saving in coal consumption compared to a sub-critical plant and by about 11% compared to a supercritical plant are the primary reasons justifying this project.
• Use of this technology in all future large power plants will ensure energy security for the country for a longer period, along with a greener environment.