India coal consumption projected to double by mid-century before sharp decline
A new government report indicates India's coal demand will peak at 2.62 billion tons by 2050. The fuel remains vital for grid stability as the nation transitions.
NITI Aayog published long-term projections on February 10, 2026, showing that coal consumption in India 
IN could more than double by 2050 under the current policy scenario. The report indicates that demand may rise from 1.26 billion metric tons to 2.62 billion metric tons by 2050, a trajectory that would significantly affect the nation's energy mix, emissions trajectory, and electricity system planning. These projections cover strategic mid-century and 2070 time horizons, with coal use expected to peak in 2050 under current policies.
IN could more than double by 2050 under the current policy scenario. The report indicates that demand may rise from 1.26 billion metric tons to 2.62 billion metric tons by 2050, a trajectory that would significantly affect the nation's energy mix, emissions trajectory, and electricity system planning. These projections cover strategic mid-century and 2070 time horizons, with coal use expected to peak in 2050 under current policies.
