Question : SUPPLY OF COAL

(a) whether the ambitious capacity addition targets in the power sector during the Twelfth Five Year Plan is not likely to be met due to acute shortage of coal;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the estimated requirement of coal to achieve the target during the Twelfth Five Year Plan;

(c) whether coal linkages for various power projects to be commissioned during the Twelfth Five Year Plan are yet to be tied up;

(d) if so, the details thereof along with the reasons therefor; and

(e) the measures proposed to be taken to ensure the adequate supply of coal for the new and upcoming projects?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER ( SHRI K.C. VENUGOPAL )

(a) to (e) : The capacity addition programme for the 12th Five Year Plan and the Coal requirement thereof has not yet been firmed up by the Planning Commission. However, Planning Commission has set up Working Groups on Power, Coal and Lignite, Railways (for transportation of coal), etc.

The following measures have been taken/are proposed to be taken to ensure adequate supply of coal for new and upcoming projects:

(i) Coal linkage is available for approximately 45,000 MW projects and Coal blocks have been allocated for projects aggregating around 22,000 MW under construction for completion in 12th Plan and beyond.

(ii) Ministry of Coal/Coal India Ltd. (CIL) is being insisted upon to enhance production of domestic coal in the country.

(iii) Import of coal by the power utilities depending on the availability of indigenous coal, to bridge the shortfall.

(iv) Exploring the possibility of overseas mining and long term tie-up for import of coal.