The Coal Question

Solely depending on the Union Government for coal supplies and with no import possible, Tamil Nadu’s power utility, Tangedco, is managing to keep the thermal power plants running on a daily basis. Keeping in mind the nightmares of load-shedding from a decade ago that dethroned it, the ruling DMK has its task cut out before the next summer

Coal shortage in the country has made the headlines recently with a few States enforcing load-shedding leading to the panic situation. While Tamil Nadu is not facing any coal shortage, the stock is a matter of concern for the State power utility, Tangedco, prompting officials to request the Union Power Ministry to increase coal supplies.

A senior official of Tangedco says the utility has almost been pushed to a hand-to-mouth existence. The State, which was receiving 40,000 tonnes of coal last week, is getting 50,000 tonnes this week. The 50,000 tonnes is just enough for the operation of the three power stations at North Chennai, Mettur and Thoothukudi. These stations consume around 52,000 tonnes daily to produce 4,320 megawatts. With the limited supply, Tangedco has been able to produce 3,000 megawatts-3,500 megawatts daily from these plants.

Though the State has wind and solar and non-polluting gas plants that account for 42% of the total installed capacity of 32,595 MW, thermal power has remained the staple for electricity officials to power up the State, especially to meet the peak demand in the morning and the evening. The short supplies from the coal mines has created a piquant situation for Tangedco officials. In the recent past, the State has not faced the situation of having coal stocks for 4-5 days against the mandated limit of 9-10 days. The State had stocks for 15 days last year.