India’s thermal power sector, recent data reveals a substantial 32% increase in coal stocks at thermal power plants (TPPs) compared to the previous year. According to the Ministry of Coal, as of June 16, 2024, TPPs collectively held over 45 million tonnes of coal, marking the highest stockpile ever recorded.
Efforts by the Ministry of Coal have been instrumental in achieving this milestone, with focused initiatives on boosting coal production, optimizing logistics, and enhancing inter-agency coordination. These measures have ensured a consistent and robust supply of coal to meet the escalating demands of the power sector, despite unprecedented levels of energy consumption.
The Ministry’s statement highlighted the resilience of the thermal power sector amidst surging power demand, underscoring the critical role played by enhanced production capabilities and efficient logistical management. The current coal stock of 45 MT represents a notable 31.71% increase from the corresponding period last year, when stocks stood at 34.25 MT.
Key statistics from the Ministry’s report further illustrate the sector’s performance: cumulative coal production reached 207.48 MT by June 16, 2024, reflecting a solid growth rate of 9.27% compared to the previous year. Notably, coal production from captive and commercial mines surged by 27%, reaching 33 MT during the same period.
Coal dispatches also saw significant growth, totaling 220.31 MT, which marks a 7.65% increase year-on-year. Coal India Ltd (CIL), the country’s largest coal producer, reported a commendable 7.28% rise in production to 160.25 MT, accompanied by a 4% increase in dispatches to 166.58 MT.
Moreover, dispatches from captive and commercial mines showed a robust growth of 30%, totaling 39.45 MT, further reinforcing the sector’s capacity to meet burgeoning demands. Specifically catering to the power sector, coal dispatches stood at 180.35 MT, reflecting a 5.71% rise compared to the previous year.
Overall, India’s coal sector remains well-positioned with an aggregate coal stock of 144.68 MT across mines, transit points, and power plants, ensuring ample supply to sustain the operational needs of the power sector. This surplus underscores the sector’s resilience and readiness to support India’s growing energy requirements amidst evolving economic and environmental considerations.
As the thermal power sector continues to navigate challenges and opportunities, stakeholders anticipate further enhancements in operational efficiencies and strategic planning to sustain this positive momentum in coal supply and power generation.
