The CPIL’s counsel had earlier informed the court that the DRI had in March 2016 identified 40 power companies that over-invoiced coal imported from Indonesia.
Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia today said the price-pooling mechanism should be adopted for fuel supply to power firms but solution to some of the issues involved could take some time.
Coal India has invited bids from companies for appointment as consultant who will help the state-run firm to develop a pact for supply of imported coal for power firms entering into a fuel supply agreement (FSA).
Chinese banks have started offering loans on projects at lower rates to finance more than USD 50 billion worth of power equipment for Indian companies. For Indian power firms, this is a big leg-up since local banks are reluctant to lend to these companies.
India's coal, steel and power firms have been scouting for coal assets overseas to feed power plants at home. The energy-hungry nation aims to halve a near-14% peak-hour power deficit within two years