The not-for-profit organization, Global Energy Monitor (GEM), is known for diligently tracking coal projects worldwide, and has recently released an update on its Global Coal Plant Tracker. This report offers a comprehensive insight into the developments in coal power projects across the globe.
Key Findings from the GEM’s Recent Report
An important revelation in this report is that over 95% of coal plant capacity beginning construction in 2023 is located in China, suggesting domination by China in new coal projects. Simultaneously, it noted a decrease in new coal power capacity construction for the second year in a row. This indicates a shift away from coal in numerous regions.
Though the focus shifts away from coal, GEM reports that 110 GW of coal power capacity is under consideration in 32 countries. India, Bangladesh, and Indonesia comprise the major part of proposed coal capacity outside China, accounting for 83%.
Moreover, it was observed that 18.3 GW of coal capacity moved from proposed to shelved or canceled status within the first nine months of 2023. However, several new proposals of 15.3 GW emerged in India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia. The data shows India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Vietnam account for 84% of the 67 GW of coal power capacity under construction outside China as of July 2023.
India’s Plans for Coal Power
India is planning significant expansion in its coal-fired power plant capacity by 2032. From the previously stated 27 GW in the National Electricity Plan 2022-32 (NEP), India now aims for 80 GW. Several states in India have reported progress in coal plant projects, with permits granted in Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh.
What is the Global Energy Monitor (GEM)?
GEM’s mission is to foster the worldwide movement for clean energy through information development and sharing. GEM studies the evolving global energy landscape and creates databases, reports, and interactive tools that enhance understanding. It contributes significantly to building an open guide to the world’s energy system. Notable users of GEM’s data and reports include the International Energy Agency, United Nations Environment Programme, the World Bank, and Bloomberg Global Coal Countdown.
About the Global Coal Plant Tracker
Developed by GEM, the Global Coal Plant Tracker is an online database that identifies and maps every known coal-fired generating unit and new unit proposed since 2010. Updated biannually, the tracker uses footnoted wiki pages to document each plant.
Coal: An Overview
Coal is often referred to as ‘Black Gold’ due to its vast availability and its role as a conventional source of energy. Used in industries such as iron and steel, for steam engines and to generate electricity, coal is a critical resource. The leading coal producers globally include China, US, Australia, Indonesia, and India.
Distribution and Classification of Coal in India
In India, 98% of total coal reserves and 99% of coal production come from Gondwana coal, which forms the country’s metallurgical grade and superior quality coal. The rest is made up of Tertiary coal, which has very low carbon content but is rich in moisture and sulphur. India’s coal is classified into four types: Anthracite, Bituminous, Lignite, and Peat, each varying in carbon content and characteristics.
Questions on Coal for UPSC Civil Services Examination
Candidates appearing for the UPSC Civil Services Exam can expect questions on India’s coal sector, its characteristics, and the industry’s impact on the Gross Domestic Product. Topics could also include discussions around the environmental impact of coal mining and its relevance for development, despite the harmful effects.