Coal-fired Electricity Generation Declines First Time in 50 Years
India's coal-fired electricity generation declines in 2025, a first in 50 years.
Photo by Buddy AN
Key Facts
Coal-fired electricity decline: First in 50 years
Year of decline: 2025
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper 3: Economy - Infrastructure: Energy, environmental pollution and degradation
Connects to India's commitment to Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals
Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical, linking to government policies
Visual Insights
More Information
Background
The history of coal-fired electricity generation in India is intertwined with the nation's industrial development. Post-independence, coal became the cornerstone of India's energy policy due to its abundance and affordability. The initial Five-Year Plans heavily emphasized coal production and thermal power plants to fuel industrial growth.
The Coal India Limited (CIL) was established in 1975 to consolidate and manage coal resources. Throughout the late 20th century, coal-fired power plants dominated the electricity sector, supporting urbanization and economic expansion. However, this reliance also led to significant environmental challenges, including air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Policies like the National Electricity Policy (2005) started to acknowledge the need for diversification, but coal remained dominant until recent shifts.
Latest Developments
In recent years, India has witnessed a significant push towards renewable energy sources. The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (launched in 2010) and subsequent policies have spurred growth in solar and wind energy capacity. The government's commitment to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 has further accelerated this transition.
Simultaneously, there's been increased focus on energy efficiency through initiatives like the Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) scheme. The decline in coal-fired electricity generation reflects these efforts, compounded by factors like declining costs of renewable energy and growing environmental awareness. Future trends suggest a continued shift towards cleaner energy, with potential implications for coal-dependent regions and industries.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the decline in coal-fired electricity generation in India: 1. The decline is solely attributable to increased renewable energy capacity. 2. Improved energy efficiency measures have contributed to the decline. 3. The decline directly contradicts India's commitments under the Paris Agreement. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 only
- B.2 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.2 and 3 only
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is incorrect as other factors like energy efficiency also contribute. Statement 3 is incorrect as the decline aligns with India's climate goals. Statement 2 is correct as improved efficiency reduces coal demand.
2. Which of the following factors has NOT contributed significantly to the recent decline in coal-fired electricity generation in India?
- A.Increased renewable energy capacity
- B.Improved energy efficiency measures
- C.Decreasing cost of renewable energy
- D.Increased coal production by Coal India Limited
Show Answer
Answer: D
Increased coal production would likely lead to more coal-fired electricity generation, not a decline. The other options directly contribute to the decline.
3. Consider the following statements: I. The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission was launched in 2010. II. The Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) scheme focuses on improving energy efficiency in energy-intensive industries. III. India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.I and II only
- B.II and III only
- C.I and III only
- D.I, II and III
Show Answer
Answer: D
All three statements are factually correct and represent key initiatives and targets related to India's energy transition.
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