On Tuesday, India’s government announced that coal stockpiles at thermal power plants reached an all-time high of 58.25 million tonnes, sufficient to cover 25 days of consumption. This milestone strengthens energy security as the country prepares for the monsoon season, which often disrupts coal mining and transportation.

Trucks loaded with coal drive to the coal yard at the Deendayal Port in Kandla, in the western state of Gujarat, India, April 5, 2025.

India, the world’s second-largest coal consumer, has significantly increased domestic coal production to meet growing electricity demand and reduce dependence on imports. This achievement aligns with efforts to expand coal-fired power capacity by 80 gigawatts by 2031–32, while also pursuing 500 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.

According to commodities consultancy BigMint, India’s thermal coal imports dropped by 8% in the 2024–25 financial year, totaling approximately 169 million metric tons. This decline reflects record domestic coal output and reduced blending with imported coal. Data from Grid India shows that coal-fired generation's contribution to the country’s power mix fell to 49.2% in May, down from 74.0% a year earlier, marking the lowest level since June 2022.

The substantial coal reserves ensure a stable power supply during the monsoon, supporting India’s energy needs while balancing its commitment to diversifying energy sources.