Power plants told to import 10% of their coal demand for next year

The government has asked power plants to import coal in preparation for the summer and rainy seasons, Union power secretary Alok Kumar said. In an exclusive interview with Sarita C Singh, he said that though the share of coal-based generation will come down, it will still be substantial in the near future. Edited excerpts:

Do you agree with recommendations of the expert panel on National Electricity Policy on halting new coal-based plants?

India is committed to energy transition, but with energy security. India has made a path for a greater share of electricity generation from renewables and non-fossil (fuels).