More generation plugs power deficit

Power cut in the summers may be a reality, but additional generation by companies has brought the deficit down to eight per cent in May compared to over nine per cent in the same period last year. The situation, though, is tricky with coal supply position reaching a critical level in 37 thermal power plants in June.

According to the Central Electricity Authority of India (CEA)’s latest data, power demand touched 129,030 Mw in May, but the supply was 118,608 Mw, a shortfall of 10,422 Mw that translates into a deficit of 8.1 per cent. In the same month in 2011, the power demand was 123,299 Mw, but with 111,862 Mw being generated, the shortfall was 11,437 Mw, a deficit of 9.3 per cent.

Despite this, the situation continues to be grim as the average coal stock in these 37 thermal plants has reached a critical level.