Coal Ministry aims for 1,404 MT production by 2027, stocks steadily increasing

The Ministry of Coal has set ambitious targets for coal production in the coming years, aiming to produce 1,404 million tonnes (MT) of coal by 2027 and 1,577 MT by 2030. This plan comes in response to the growing demand for coal, particularly with the addition of 80 GW thermal capacity in the country by 2030.

The current coal production stands at approximately one billion tonnes per annum, with 821 MT supplied to domestic coal-based power plants this year. The Ministry acknowledges the additional coal requirement for the upcoming thermal capacity, estimating around 400 MT at 85 per cent Plant Load Factor (PLF).

To meet these demands, the Ministry's production enhancement plan includes opening new mines, expanding existing capacities, and leveraging captive/commercial mines. The comprehensive approach is expected to surpass the domestic requirement for thermal power plants.

In terms of the current coal situation, stocks have been steadily increasing since October 16. Thermal power plant stocks now stand at 20 MT, mines have 41.59 MT, and the total stock, including transit and captive mines, is 73.56 MT. This marks a 12 per cent year-on-year growth compared to last year's 65.56 MT.

Collaboration between the Ministries of Coal, Power, and Railways is ensuring smooth coal supplies. Despite a 20 per cent increase in demand for thermal power in the last three months, the coordination efforts have maintained growth of 8.99 per cent in power generation from domestic coal-based plants. Meanwhile, coal production has seen impressive yearly growth of 13.02 per cent.

With clear plans for expansion, the Ministry of Coal aims to not only meet the growing demand for coal but also to surpass it, ensuring a stable and sustainable energy future for the country.