New Delhi, Jan 22 (FN Agency) Coal-based power generation in the country grew 10.13% year-on-year during April-December period of 2023, Ministry of Coal said on Monday. Overall power generation during the same period registered a growth of 6.71%. The Coal Ministry said that domestic coal-based power generation during April-December period of 2023 reached 872 billion units (BU), reflecting an increase of 7.14% from the 813.9 billion units (BU) generated in the corresponding period of last year. “This reflects an ample coal supply to meet the growing energy demand in the country,” the Ministry said.
As per the official data, coal import for blending decreased substantially by 40.66% to 17.08 million tonnes (MT) during April-December of 2023 from 28.78 MT in the corresponding period of previous year, despite the escalating power demand. Coal Ministry said that this showcased the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in coal production and minimizing overall coal imports. “Coal-based power generation in India has played a significant role in meeting the country’s energy demands. India is currently experiencing a substantial increase in power demand, driven by a combination of factors like industrial growth, technological advancements, population growth, economic development etc,” Coal Ministry said. Coal-based power accounts for nearly 70% of the total power generation in the country.