The Indian government has extended its mandate requiring imported coal-fired power plants to operate at full capacity until the end of April, pushing back an earlier deadline set for February.
The decision, outlined in a government order seen by Reuters, comes in response to rising electricity demand across the country.
India’s power ministry anticipates peak electricity demand could reach 270 gigawatts (GW) in the upcoming summer season, up from 250 GW last year.
The country often experiences extreme heatwaves during this period, significantly increasing energy consumption.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast above-average temperatures for March across most regions, following an unusually warm February.
Higher temperatures typically lead to a surge in cooling requirements, putting pressure on the power grid.
India has about 17 GW of power capacity dependent on imported coal, operated by major companies such as Adani Power, Mundra Power, and Essar Power.
Ensuring these plants run at full capacity is expected to help bridge potential supply gaps and prevent electricity shortages.
The move underscores India’s ongoing challenges in balancing its energy needs with its transition to cleaner energy sources.
While the country has been expanding its renewable energy sector, coal remains a critical component of its power supply, especially during peak demand seasons.
With summer approaching, the government is taking preemptive measures to avoid power crises like those seen in previous years.
The extension of the coal plant mandate reflects India’s strategy to maintain grid stability amid increasing consumption driven by extreme weather conditions.
