TFP Bureau, New Delhi; January 22, 2024: The country’s coal-based power generation achieved a notable growth of 10.13% during April-December 2023, showcasing significant progress in the energy sector. This surge is compared to the corresponding period of the previous year, while overall power generation registered a 6.71% increase during the same timeframe.
The domestic coal-based power generation from April to December 2023 reached 872 Billion Units (BU), reflecting a substantial 7.14% increase compared to the 813.9 Billion Units (BU) generated in the corresponding period last year. This surge indicates a robust coal supply to meet the escalating energy demands in the country.
In a noteworthy development, coal import for blending experienced a significant decline of 40.66%, reducing to 17.08 million metric tons (MT) during April-December 2023 from 28.78 MT in the corresponding period of the previous year. Despite the surging power demand, this decline underscores the nation’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in coal production and minimizing overall coal imports.
India relies heavily on conventional (thermal, nuclear, and hydro) and renewable sources (wind, solar, biomass, etc.) for power generation. However, coal remains a major contributor, constituting more than 70% of the total power generation.
Coal-based power generation in India has played a crucial role in meeting the country’s energy demands, especially amid the current surge in power demand driven by industrial growth, technological advancements, population growth, and economic development. The government continues its efforts to boost coal production, aiming to enhance availability and reduce dependence on imported coal, safeguarding foreign reserves.
