Global Energy Monitor (GEM)

Global Energy Monitor (GEM) : Recently, a report by the Global Energy Monitor (GEM) ranked India fourth globally for its potential to generate solar energy from abandoned coal mines, highlighting a promising opportunity for clean energy transition.

• Key Highlights : 63 disused mine sites identified across India, spanning 500+ sq. km, with potential to generate 27.11 GW of solar power (~37% of current installed capacity).

o Telangana, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh among top 20 global regions with highest land availability for solar conversion, jointly offering over 22 GW potential.

o Globally, 288 GW of solar potential identified across 28 countries with recently closed/open-pit coal mines.

• Global progress: China leads with 90 coal-to-solar projects (14 GW) and 45 more underway (9 GW).

o 15 countries have launched renewable projects on former coal mines.

• About GEM : an independent research organization supporting the global shift to clean energy.

o It produces databases, reports, and tools to help track and understand the global energy landscape.

o Promotes data transparency and open access to energy system information worldwide.

o Its data is widely used by key global institutions, including: International Energy Agency (IEA), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), World Bank and Bloomberg Global Coal Countdown.