Posted by Coal makes up nearly 50% of the country’s commercial primary energy supply and is the most common fuel used to generate electricity. It is predicted that coal will continue to be the primary fuel for power generation in India until 2030 and beyond, despite expected renewable energy development. Despite the fact that coal will continue to dominate the power supply, India’s coal industry faces formidable obstacles and impending upheaval.
The Indian economy is woven together with the coal sector. A bit more than 75% of the largest coal businesses in the nation are owned by the federal government, which contributes significantly to the national treasury through dividend payments. Levies on coal are a significant source of income for the federal government, particularly for the coal-producing states, which are among the most impoverished in the country.
In the past few years, India has transitioned from persistent power shortages to a nearly surplus power-producing capacity. In the last few years, demand growth has outpaced coal-fired power generation capacity development. At the same time, the expanding RE supply is starting to replace coal-fired production opportunistically, lowering certain coal-fired facilities’ load factors and, consequently, their profitability.
Future coal plants that can efficiently reduce production to accommodate variable RE generation will be newer, more efficient, and more competitive. When it comes to coal transportation costs, plants close to mines also clearly benefit. Less competitive will be older facilities that need major improvements to comply with environmental regulations or regulations mandating generation flexibility.
India’s current energy policy aims to provide all homes with inexpensive electricity. India consumes barely one-third of the global average of electricity per person, and millions of houses still need an energy connection. The environment is crucial, but local air pollution—not global warming—is the main issue. India is on track to reach its Nationally Determined Contribution despite rising coal consumption.
It is more feasible to increase the efficiency of the coal-fired power system than to wish it away. An all-encompassing strategy for India’s power system may lead to higher effectiveness and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
The history of the KCT Group dates back to 1921, when Karma Chand Thapar, the great-grandfather of the current vice chairman, Varun Thapar, established a localised coal distribution company. It is now one of India’s leading businesses that conglomerates a diverse portfolio of companies with holdings in industries like coal, infrastructure, real estate, manufacturing, and aquaculture. The company has made significant contributions to the growth and development of the Indian coal industry and has played a key role in ensuring a steady supply of coal to meet the country’s energy needs. KCT Group has established a robust network of mines, transportation and distribution facilities and has invested in cutting-edge technology and equipment to enhance the efficiency of its operations. The company’s commitment to sustainable practices and environmental protection has also helped it to earn a reputation as a responsible player in the Indian coal industry.