Coal stocks at India's domestic thermal power plants have rebounded to 27 million tonnes (MT) as of December 9, indicating a recovery from the yearly low of 18.5 MT approximately a month ago. Approximately 20 domestic coal-based power plants had previously reported critical stock levels, a substantial decrease from the peak of 75 around October 23. The recovery in coal stocks is attributed to increased production and relatively stable power demand. Improved weather conditions, contributing to higher coal production since November, have resulted in daily coal supply exceeding average daily consumption, leading to the accumulation of coal stocks. While India's power demand in December hasn't witnessed a significant surge, coal stocks remain lower than the peak summer levels between April and July when they ranged from 33 to 35 MT. Despite addressing coal shortages, the power ministry mandated thermal generating stations, including Independent Power Producers, to blend imported coal at 6 percent of their total capacity until March 2024. Union Minister for Power and New and Renewable Energy RK Singh emphasized the government's efforts in averting widespread power cuts and blackouts through measures such as the mandatory blending of imported coal.

SOURCE:GOOGLE