The Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam (UPRVUN) has sought “clear” directions from the state government on whether it should import expensive coal to meet the fuel requirement in power plants, considering the fact that buying foreign coal will necessitate increase in electricity prices.
Over a week ago, the central government issued an advisory to states asking them to import foreign coal for 10% blending with domestic coal at their power stations, so that they can optimally utilize domestic coal in plants nearer to mines and thus maintain adequate fuel inventory (stock) to continue normal power production.
“What the centre has issued is only an advisory which is not mandatory for states, but at the same time, the union power ministry is closely monitoring the situation and holding regular meetings with states in this regard,” a senior energy department official said.
