Thermal Power Plants Reach Peak Coal Stocks: Coal Ministry

In the current fiscal year, the demand for coal-based power has surged by 7.30 per cent compared to the previous year, reaching its highest-ever level

The coal ministry announced on Wednesday that the thermal power plants currently hold coal stocks exceeding 45 million tonnes (MT) as of June 16, 2024, despite the unprecedented demand for power. This marks a significant increase of approximately 31.71 per cent compared to the same period last year when stocks were at 34.25 MT.

The ministry said that it has been diligently working around the clock to ensure a consistent and ample supply of coal to thermal power plants across the nation. Through enhanced production capabilities, efficient logistics management, and seamless inter-agency coordination, the Ministry has achieved its highest-ever coal stocks at thermal power plants. 

In the current fiscal year, the demand for coal-based power has surged by 7.30 per cent compared to the previous year, reaching its highest-ever level.

As of June 16, 2024, cumulative coal production has reached 207.48 MT, showing a growth of 9.27 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year, which was 189.87 MT. Coal India Limited (CIL) alone has contributed 160.25 MT to this production figure, reflecting a growth of 7.28 per cent from the previous year's 149.38 MT. Additionally, coal production from captive and commercial mines has soared to 33 MT, marking a 27 per cent increase from the corresponding period last year, said the ministry in a release.

Meanwhile, cumulative coal dispatches have reached 220.31 MT as of the same date, demonstrating a growth of 7.65 per cent compared to last year's 204.65 MT. CIL has dispatched 166.58 MT of coal, an increase of over 4 per cent from the previous year's 158.91 MT, while dispatches from captive and commercial mines have reached 39.45 MT, registering a significant growth of 30 per cent. Notably, dispatches to the power sector have amounted to 180.35 MT, showcasing an increase of 5.71 per cent from last year's 170.61 MT, as per the ministry.

This achievement can be attributed to efficient logistical arrangements that ensure a steady and adequate supply of coal. Overall, the coal stock across the country, including mines, transit, and power plants, stands at 144.68 MT, as per the ministry, ensuring ample coal supply to the power sector.