Biomass Price Benchmarking to Boost Sustainable Energy
Thermal Power Plants (TPPs) operating in the respective regions are strongly advised to adhere to the benchmark prices for biomass pellets. The Ministry of Power emphasizes the importance of compliance to accelerate capacity addition in pellet manufacturing and ensure a stable and sustainable biomass supply chain.
J&K and Ladakh Issue Regulations for Power Procurement and Planning
The introduction of these regulations aim at achieving a sustainable, transparent, and resilient power procurement framework in the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The guidelines are expected to streamline processes, enhance energy security, and encourage the integration of renewable energy sources into the power mix.
GENCOs encouraged to Participate in CIRP of Stressed Power Assets
The Ministry of Power (MoP) has issued an advisory encouraging all States/ Generation Companies (GENCOs) to participate in the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) for taking over stressed thermal power assets. State-owned GENCOs are advised to acquire stressed power assets through IBC under the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) route and contribute to the overall generation capacity of the nation.
Urgent Actions Taken to Address Deteriorating Air Quality in Delhi-NCR Region
Citizens are urged to follow the GRAP measures and actively participate in maintaining and improving air quality in the region. Recommendations include using sustainable transportation options like cycling, carpooling, and public transport, working from home if possible, refraining from burning coal and wood for heating, and combining errands to reduce trips.
MoP directs all GENCOs on Timely Import of Coal
To ensure a consistent and uninterrupted power supply across the country, the Ministry of Power, in consultation with the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and Grid India, has made the decision to increase the blending of imported coal to a minimum of 6% by weight. Power generation companies (Gencos) are encouraged to continuously monitor their coal stock positions.
State Governments Imposing Unlawful Additional Charges on Electricity Generation
The government has emphasised that no state has the authority to impose taxes or duties on the generation or inter-state supply of electricity under the guise of additional charges or fees, regardless of the energy source—be it thermal, hydro, renewables, or any other.
India Records Significant Growth in Coal Production During Current Financial Year
The first half of the year is typically marked by lower production and transportation due to summer and monsoon seasons. As a result, coal stocks at mine pitheads and thermal power plants tend to deplete during H1. The second half of the year is characterized by more favorable production conditions, leading to higher supply than consumption. This results in the buildup of coal stocks at power plants and mine pitheads.
New “Dispute Avoidance Mechanism” Extended to Power Sector Projects
This extension of the “Dispute Avoidance Mechanism” is expected to have a positive impact on the power sector by promoting efficient dispute resolution, minimizing delays, and ultimately contributing to the successful implementation of power projects under the Ministry of Power’s purview.
GENCOs directed to Import Coal in Timely Manner
The Ministry of Power (MoP) has directed all GENCOs, including Independent Power Producers, to Import Coal in timely manner for blending purposes and maximizing production in captive coal mines. These directions were issued on 1st September, 2023.
Thermal Power Plants must comply with Emission Norms
MoEF&CC has specified timelines for SO2 compliance for non-retiring Thermal Power Plants for compliance to emission norms. For non-compliance beyond the specified timelines, MoEF&CC has prescribed environment compensation on the non-retiring thermal power plants.
