The number of thermal power plants in India facing critically low coal stocks rose to 66 by mid-September 2026 amid high electricity demand and subdued hydropower generation.
The number of thermal power plants in India facing critically low coal stocks rose to 66 by mid-September 2026 amid high electricity demand and subdued hydropower generation.
Key Details of the Coal Stock Situation
Critical Inventory Level: -
According to data reported by Business Standard, overall coal stocks at thermal power plants averaged about 7 days as of September 14, 2026, which is well below the normative level of 18 days.
Rising Count: -
Plants categorized with critical low coal stocks (holding less than 25% of required inventory or under three days of generation capacity) increased to 66, up from 59 earlier in the month and 45 at the end of August.
Contributing Factors: -
High power demand driven by cooling needs, uneven monsoon patterns lowering reservoir levels and hydro generation, and a 3.1% year-on-year drop in domestic coal production during the first four months of FY 27 have strained the supply chain.
Potential Impacts:-
If low inventory levels persist, power exchange prices and night-time tariffs could spike, increasing power purchase costs for distribution companies (discoms).
MJF Ln ER YK Sharma
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