India Ministry of Power directs 112 captive coal plants to full capacity

India's Ministry of Power has directed 112 captive coal-based generating stations with an installed capacity of at least 50 MW to operate at maximum available capacity from October 1 to December 31, 2026. The directive, issued under Section 11 of the Electricity Act, 2003, aims to ensure an adequate electricity supply in anticipation of rising demand.

The order requires these facilities to maintain sufficient coal stocks to ensure fuel availability for maximum generation. Additionally, any surplus electricity remaining after meeting the plants' own captive requirements must be offered through power exchanges in accordance with market regulations.

The list of 112 entities includes captive generating units from various sectors, such as steel, aluminium, cement, petroleum, fertilisers, paper, and chemicals. Notable companies included in the directive are Tata Steel, Vedanta, Hindalco Industries, JSW Steel, UltraTech Cement, Indian Oil Corporation, and NALCO.