Coal-based power generation records 8.38% surge

The domestic coal-based power generation increased 8.38 per cent to 779.1 Billion Units (BU) in April-November FY24, according to an official statement released on Saturday by the coal ministry.

The country’s domestic coal-based power generation totalled 718.83 BU, during the corresponding period last year. According to the statement, the country experienced a 7.71 per cent uptick in power generation for the specified period. This increase can be attributed to a notable 11.19 per cent year-on-year rise in coal-based power generation. Factors contributing to this growth include elevated temperatures, delayed monsoons in Northern India, and the full resumption of commercial activities following the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a significant shift towards self-sufficiency, coal imports intended for blending purposes saw a sharp decline of 44.28 per cent, dropping to 15.16 million tonnes (MT) up to November in the current fiscal year from 27.21 MT during the same timeframe last year. The ministry highlighted this reduction as a testament to India's dedication to boosting domestic coal production and curtailing reliance on overseas coal sources.

The government continues to emphasise initiatives aimed at bolstering coal production further. The objective remains to augment availability domestically and diminish the country's dependence on imported coal, thereby reinforcing its foreign reserves.