MC
The Karnataka government has decided to procure 2.5 lakh metric tonnes of imported coal at $86 per tonne, state Additional Chief Secretary (Energy Department) Gaurav Gupta said on November 21. Gupta said a decision to this effect was taken by the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL). Accordingly, a work order has been issued but supply is yet to start.
“The state has given an order for 2.5 lakh tonnes of coal. We have issued orders by calling tenders. We will not disclose from where it will be brought. It will be imported coal, which generally comes from Indonesia. The rate is 86 USD per ton,” he said at a press conference. Gupta said there are instructions from the Union Ministry of Power to use imported coal in all the thermal power stations. They have said a minimum six per cent (of imported coal) has to be used. Further, it depends on the design of the thermal power station.