Power Minister RK Singh spearheads discussions with key industry stakeholders to address India's soaring power demand and the imperative of adding 80 gigawatts (GW) of coal-fired capacity. Amidst a current demand surge hitting 241 GW against an installed capacity of 214 GW, the government aims to bolster the nation's energy supply, necessitating a substantial coal-based capacity increase by FY32.

The comprehensive meeting brought together influential entities encompassing government officials, power agencies, independent power producers, and major vendors to strategize on meeting the colossal energy needs crucial for India's economic growth. Singh asserted the indispensability of reliable, round-the-clock power for sustained economic development, emphasizing that while renewable energy is pivotal, coal-based thermal capacity remains an essential part of the energy mix, particularly considering the swift power demand escalation.

Highlighting projections from the National Electricity Plan for 2022-32, Singh emphasized the necessity of ramping up thermal capacity to meet the projected requirement of 283 GW by FY32. He stressed the urgency for states to maintain and modernize existing thermal plants and encouraged proactive steps in capacity addition, warning of the potential repercussions for states neglecting this aspect.

Expressing industry concerns, equipment providers raised issues pertaining to the bidding process, credit shortages, qualifying requisites, and technical specifications. Singh urged industry representatives to communicate their concerns for collaborative resolution and assured support for addressing these challenges.

The Minister underscored the next two decades as a pivotal phase for power suppliers, encouraging industry stakeholders to gear up manufacturing capacities and affirming that the evolving energy landscape necessitates indigenous development. Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal reiterated the long-term relevance of thermal energy, urging equipment providers and entities at all levels to align their plans and seize forthcoming opportunities in the power sector's expansion.

The dialogue reflects the government's proactive approach to navigate India's escalating power demand and underscores the imperative of cohesive efforts and proactive measures from all stakeholders to fortify the country's energy infrastructure.