India has initiated trials to test the blending of domestic coal with imported coal in power plants, encompassing 10 units with a combined capacity of approximately 18,000 MW. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance local coal sourcing and mitigate the risks associated with fluctuating global coal prices. The trials will assess operational feasibility, including efficiency, combustion, and equipment performance. While some power producers are on board, others have raised concerns about technical challenges, such as the suitability of their designs for low ash-content coal and stringent emission norms. Despite these challenges, India's coal output exceeded 1 billion tonnes in FY26, indicating a strong domestic supply. The coal ministry has expressed intentions to encourage more domestic fuel blending as production increases.