New Delhi, October 13 (Daily Kiran) : The Chairman of the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Ghanshyam Prasad, stated on Tuesday that India must significantly increase its coal-based energy capacity to keep up with the rapidly growing demand for electricity. This expansion is necessary alongside the growth of renewable energy sources.
Speaking at an event organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce, Prasad highlighted that policymakers may need to reassess the scale of coal power capacity to ensure a reliable electricity supply over the next decade, given the trends in energy demand.
Last year, the government projected an increase of 97 gigawatts in the country’s coal-fired power generation capacity by 2035, bringing the total to approximately 307 gigawatts. However, the faster-than-expected rise in electricity consumption could significantly elevate future needs.
“The demand is increasing, and as it grows, we require stable sources of supply to meet that demand,” Prasad remarked. He indicated that the need for additional coal-based capacity might exceed previous estimates, potentially reaching between 105 gigawatts and 150 gigawatts beyond current expansion plans.
His comments reflect the challenges India faces in balancing its rapidly increasing electricity consumption with its long-term goals for clean energy. This year, electricity demand surged, with peak daily demand being 45 to 50 gigawatts higher than last year.
Moreover, reduced rainfall during the monsoon season has led to decreased hydropower generation, increasing reliance on thermal power plants to meet supply shortages. According to government data, in September, the electricity shortfall rose to 560 million kilowatt-hours, marking the highest level since August 2023, despite increased power generation from coal-fired plants.
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