[en] Coal currently constitutes over 60% of the share of total commercial energy. Over 65% of the electricity generated is coal based. Indian coal not only has a high ash content, but its washability characteristics is also generally poor. Yet, coal is undeniably the most feasible option for meeting future energy demands. The energy environment conflict in coal use and the uncertainties related to global climate change, vis-a-vis the development strategies for an accelerated growth, lay the foundations for clean coal technologies. (author). 3 refs