Coal shortage hits 59 thermal power plants as India’s power demand rises. Keralam records 96.40 million units of daily electricity consumption
India is facing growing pressure on its power sector as coal stocks at several thermal power plants have fallen to critically low levels amid rising electricity demand. According to recent reports, 59 coal-based power plants across the country now have critically low coal inventories. Some plants have less than three days of coal stock remaining. The number of such plants has increased from 45 at the end of August.
Rising Power Demand Adds to Pressure
Electricity demand has been increasing across several parts of the country. Higher temperatures and increased use of air conditioners, coolers and other electrical appliances have pushed power consumption upward.
India’s peak power demand crossed 260 gigawatts in September, with demand recently remaining around 267 GW. Coal-based thermal power plants continue to play a major role in meeting this demand, making adequate coal supplies crucial for maintaining electricity generation.
Efforts Underway to Improve Coal Supply
Authorities are taking steps to increase coal supplies to power plants. Railways have increased the number of coal-carrying rakes being deployed. On September 6, around 444 rakes were used to transport coal, compared with 370 rakes on September 3.
Coal India and its subsidiaries are also increasing coal transportation through road networks to support power plants facing shortages.
The government has also planned to operationalise six new captive and commercial coal mines during the current financial year. Production has already started at three of these mines.
However, the Coal Ministry has said that the country has around 123.7 million tonnes of coal reserves, which is sufficient for roughly 51 days based on current consumption levels. The ministry has also indicated that coal supplies affected by the monsoon are gradually improving.
Keralam Sees Sharp Rise in Electricity Consumption
The coal shortage comes at a time when Keralam is also witnessing a significant rise in electricity demand.
According to the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), the state recorded daily electricity consumption of 96.40 million units, the highest daily consumption recorded in Keralam during September so far.
The state’s total power demand reached around 5,400 MW, while the power shortage at one point crossed 680 MW. Electricity consumption reached its highest level at around 10:15 pm.
A decline in grid frequency also prompted intervention from the Regional Load Despatch Centre to help maintain grid stability.
High Demand Continues in September
Keralam’s electricity demand is reportedly around 40% higher than it was during September last year. Demand has remained elevated late into the night, putting additional pressure on the state’s power supply system.
Because of the sustained demand, KSEB has continued power-control measures, which may remain in place until the end of September.
With electricity demand rising across India and coal stocks remaining critically low at several thermal power plants, ensuring a steady supply of coal will remain important in the coming weeks. The situation will require close monitoring to prevent disruptions in power generation and maintain grid stability.
