India is likely to double down on coal-fired power capacity in response to a surge in electricity demand, despite pressure expected to face for the upcoming COP-28 climate summit, local media reported on November 7.

The country has to start construction on 30 GW of new thermal generation capacity on top of 50 GW already in progress to ensure reliable power supply for the economic growth of the nation, the Times of India reported, citing the power minister R K Singh.

"We are not going to compromise on availability of power for our growth, even if it requires that we add coal-based capacity," Singh said in his opening remarks at the annual state energy meeting. He said the country needs about 80 GW of thermal capacity under construction.

Power demand increased more than 20% year on year over August-October. "We have successfully met peak demand of 241 GW recently, while peak demand was 190 GW in 2017-18. If the peak grows higher, we may not be able to meet it," Singh said.

Furthermore, Singh urged all states to maximize their power plants' operational capacities and explore importing coal for blending with domestic fuel sources. This move aims to alleviate the burden on Coal India Limited, which has been grappling with the rising demand for coal.

(Writing by Emma Yang  Editing by Harry Huo)
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