No shortage of coal for the power sector: Minister G. Kishan Reddy

23 Jul 2024

Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy said that there is no shortage of coal for the power sector and that the Centre will ensure an adequate supply of the dry fuel to meet demand. He said that increased productivity in coal mines and commercial mines will meet the long-term demand.

"We are currently providing coal to all thermal power plants. We have requested that plants that rely on imported coal modify their technology to utilise domestic fuel. There is no shortage of coal in the country," Reddy, the coal and mining minister, said. During the monsoon season, coal production is usually hindered. Some technical issues related to commercial mines are being resolved, he said, without giving details.

"Coal India is successfully ramping up production, but the blending is advised to mitigate the risk of blackout due to the sudden rise in electricity demand," the minister said, referring to the power ministry's advisory regarding four percent imported coal blending for domestic thermal plants.

During the meeting, the authority emphasised the significance of operationalizing coal blocks that are in advanced stages of development. The department appreciates the efforts of all allotters in increasing coal production and encourages them to achieve their committed output targets for the 2024–25 financial years.