New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on March 1 issued a forecast indicating hotter-than-usual conditions across most of India during the upcoming summer months of March to May. Moreover, the persistence of El Nino conditions throughout this period could lead to an increased frequency of heatwave days, further exacerbating the situation.

Such weather patterns typically coincide with heightened electricity demands, pushing the country's power consumption to record-breaking levels.

Coal stockpiles boost India's preparedness
In anticipation of soaring power demands, the government is gearing up for a projected peak power demand of 256.53 GW, with expectations even surpassing the 260-GW mark, as stated by Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairperson of Central Electricity Authority (CEA).

Notably, India finds itself in a more favourable position this year compared to the previous years of 2022 and 2021, primarily attributed to improved coal stockpiles. By March-end, thermal power plants are anticipated to maintain a dedicated stockpile of 45 million tonnes (MT), marking an increase from the 31-33 MT recorded during the same period last year.

For FY25, the Power Ministry has requested 874 MT of coal, which the coal ministry will be able to meet, according to Amrit Lal Meena, Secretary, Ministry of Coal.

Policy measures and capacity enhancements
The Power Ministry has swiftly implemented crucial directives, mandating domestic coal-based power generators to continue blending imported coal and extending the imposition of Section 11 of the Electricity Act, 2002, until June. Additionally, efforts to bolster power generation capacities have seen a noteworthy expansion, with thermal power capacity increasing by at least 10 GW and Renewable Energy capacity witnessing an addition of 15 GW.

Challenges and mitigation strategies
Despite these preparations, logistical challenges persist, particularly concerning transportation and distribution. Legacy issues within the Railways infrastructure continue to impede coal transportation to thermal power plants, necessitating ongoing efforts to alleviate congestion and improve efficiency. Furthermore, concerns loom over night-time peak demands and underperformance in hydroelectric generation due to unfavorable weather conditions.

India's power sector trajectory
Over the years, India's power sector has undergone major transformations, transitioning from a deficit scenario to a surplus one. However, the burgeoning demand for power, coupled with logistical constraints and weather-related uncertainties, underscores the need for continuous adaptation and strategic planning to ensure uninterrupted energy supply.

Assessment of coal stock
In both 2021 and 2022, India experienced surges in power demand, resulting in heightened strain on coal reserves. The increased demand led to coal stocks plummeting below critical levels at numerous thermal power plants, prompting urgent measures to avert potential energy crises.

In October 2021, India faced a significant coal shortage, with stocks dwindling to just four days' worth due to shipping delays. The depletion of coal reserves below the required levels in over 100 thermal power plants underscored the urgency of addressing supply chain vulnerabilities and enhancing resilience in the face of mounting power demands. /BI/