Thermal coal demand will increase to around 1,500 metric tonnes by 2040: Pralhad Joshi

Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Saturday that to meet the country’s energy demand, which will double by 2040, the thermal coal requirement will be around 1,500 million tonnes over the next 18 years.

The Minister said that there is a need to be aware of the environment and keep in mind the sustainable mining goals.

“While the estimated electricity generation by 2040 will be around 3000 billion units, India’s energy demand will double by 2040. To meet this demand, the demand for thermal coal will increase to around 1500 million tonnes by 2040,” the minister said.

While best efforts are being made to balance the reliance on coal and lignite with the development of renewable energy, the transition to green energy will be mostly gradual, Joshi said during his maiden visit. NLC India Ltd. in Neyli.

NLC India said in a statement that Joshi today emphasized the importance of coal in the energy security of the country.

India has a balanced energy mix and is helping the country move faster towards its energy-environmental goals, the minister said.

He also appreciated the important role played by the company in fighting COVID-19.