India’s demand for coal-based power has increased by 7.3% this fiscal year, reaching an all-time high, according to a government statement on Wednesday.
Power demand in India’s hot and dry northern plains peaked earlier this week, setting a new record. This surge in demand comes as the government continues to implement measures to meet the high energy consumption needs.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted above-normal temperatures for June in the northwest and central regions of the country, contributing to one of the longest heatwave spells on record.
As of June 16, cumulative coal production had reached 207.48 million tonnes, marking a 9.27% increase compared to the same period last year, the government reported.
In 2023, over 75% of India’s power generation came from coal, while gas-fired plants accounted for only about 2% due to the high cost of gas compared to coal.
“The Ministry of Coal is fully committed to ramping up coal production and transportation, ensuring power plants have ample reserves to meet the surge in electricity demand,” the government statement said.
