Thermal coal import down 40% in April-Dec on higher domestic output

Coal import for blending at power plants declined by over 40% in April-December 2023 despite a 10% increase in thermal generation. Domestic coal-based generation rose to 872 billion units, indicating that the country can meet coal demand for power generation from domestic sources. Domestic coal production increased by 16%. The central electricity authority estimates a peak power demand of 256 GW in 2024-25.