‘Coal 2024: Analysis and Forecast to 2027’ Report published by International Energy Agency (IEA) | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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‘Coal 2024: Analysis and Forecast to 2027’ Report published by International Energy Agency (IEA)

Posted 19 Dec 2024

2 min read

The report presents trends and forecasts for coal demand, supply and trade by grade and by region.

Trajectory of Coal Usage

  • Coal Demand: It is expected to shrink in advanced economies accompanied with growth in few emerging economies E.g. India, China, Indonesia.
    • India: It is expected to see the largest increase in coal demand based on high power demand linked to economic growth.
  • Coal Production: Globally, it is expected to reach an all time high in 2024 and then flatten through 2027.
    • India is expected to be the largest contributor to global coal production growth. 
    • Indian coal production increased by 10% (2023), exceeding 1 billion tonnes for the first time. 
    • In 2024, coal production is expected to have grown by 8%.

Reasons for persistent usage of coal

  • Rising demand: Linked to power, industrial growth, and infrastructure development to fulfill goals of economic growth.
  • Weather-related fluctuations: Fluctuations in power generation by renewable sources like wind and solar are offset by constant, reliable and affordable coal power.
  • Electrification of services previously provided by other fuels: E.g. mobility and industrial heat, and emerging industries such as data centres and AI.
  • Profitability of Coal Exporters: It surged after Covid-19 and the energy crisis of 2022.

India’s Initiatives for optimization of Coal Usage

  • Promotion of Renewable energy: Schemes like PM KUSUM, PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
  • Mine Opening Permission module: It accelerates approval process for opening coal mines
  • Reducing emissions from thermal power plants: Using techniques like Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD), Electro Static Precipitator (ESP) etc.
  • Tags :
  • Coal Sector
  • International Energy Agency (IEA)
  • Coal in India
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