New Delhi: The domestic coal-based power generation reached 779.1 Billion Units (BU) between April and November 2023, reflecting an increase of 8.38% from the 718.83 Billion Units (BU) generated in the corresponding period of last year.
Notably, India witnessed a 7.71 % surge in power generation from April to November 2023 compared to the corresponding period of the previous year. Coal-based power generation witnessed an increase of 11.19% during April-November 2023, as compared to the corresponding period of the previous year attributing to an unprecedented rise in temperature, delayed monsoons in the Northern region of the country coupled with the resumption of full commercial activities post-Covid.
Coal import for blending has decreased substantially by 44.28% to 15.16 (MT) up to Nov’23 from 27.21 MT in the corresponding period of the previous year, despite the escalating power demand. “This shows the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in coal production and minimising overall coal imports,” the Ministry of Coal stated today.
“The government persists in its efforts to further enhance coal production, aiming to increase availability and reduce dependence on imported coal, thereby safeguarding foreign reserves,” the Ministry stated.
It may be mentioned that India ranks as the world’s third-largest consumer of energy, with an annual electricity demand increase of about 4.7%. India has a total coal reserve of 344.02 billion tonnes and is the second-largest producer of coal in the world. India has seen a consistent increase in the demand for electricity over the years. Given that 72% of the electricity in India is generated from coal,
Union Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi, who yesterday chaired a consultative committee meeting of the coal ministry, informed that overall coal production is likely to surpass one billion tonnes this year. For transportation, rake availability has also improved considerably recently, thereby ensuring adequate coal to the thermal power plants in the country, the Minister further informed.
Under on-line Commercial Coal Mine Auction launched in 2020, so far 91 mines have been successfully auctioned, he said.
Highlighting the sustainable coal mining practices that India is following, Shri Joshi said that the country has emerged as a global leader in containing emissions. He pointed out that Rs. 6000 crore incentive has been given for coal gasification. In order to further strengthen sustainable mining, coal PSUs have planted 100 million saplings in recent years, the Minister said.
– global bihari bureau
