India’s Coal-Fired Power Generation Climbs to Highest Level Since November 2023
India’s coal-fired power generation rose sharply in June, reaching its highest level since November 2023 as an extended heatwave and below-average monsoon rainfall pushed electricity demand higher. According to government data, total electricity generation increased 10.4% year-on-year to 178.31 billion kilowatt-hours, while coal-based power output jumped nearly 14% to 120.20 billion kilowatt-hours.
The surge in demand was driven largely by increased use of air conditioners during unusually hot weather. India’s fifth-driest June since 1901, influenced by El Niño conditions, also reduced hydropower generation, increasing dependence on coal-fired plants. Limited battery storage for renewable energy further boosted the need for coal-based electricity during peak evening hours when solar generation declines.
Despite the greater reliance on coal, renewable energy continued to expand, accounting for a record 19% of India’s power generation mix in June. Renewable power output rose 23% from a year earlier to 33.81 billion kilowatt-hours. However, analysts expect thermal power generation to remain strong through the current fiscal year to meet rising electricity demand, while hydropower and natural gas-based generation declined significantly during the month.
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