In response to soaring electricity demand driven by an intense heatwave, Coal India, the state-owned coal mining company, has urged its subsidiaries to boost coal supplies to power plants. This directive comes as the country grapples with rising temperatures attributed to the ongoing El Niño weather phenomenon.

Peak electricity demand in India recently reached an all-time high of 270.8 gigawatts, marking a significant increase over previous records. Reports from the Central Electricity Authority indicate that 21 power plants are critically low on coal reserves, possessing less than a week’s supply. The situation has prompted concerns about potential power shortages during peak usage times.

To mitigate the crisis, Coal India has announced plans to maximize coal dispatch using all available transportation methods, including rail links that directly connect coal mines to power facilities. The company has encouraged utilities—especially those in remote areas—to stockpile coal in anticipation of continued high demand.

As of late May, Coal India reported having 168 million tons of coal on hand, with 47.6 million tons already at power plants, enough to sustain operations for approximately 19 days. Despite a recent 9.7% decline in coal production to 56.1 million metric tons, Coal India is striving to ensure that the energy needs of the nation are met amid extreme weather conditions.

This situation underlines the continued reliance on coal for electricity generation in India, even as the country also develops renewable energy sources. In context, the government’s response will be critical as it attempts to balance energy needs with environmental commitments during this challenging period.