Market Intelligence

India holds the world's fifth-largest coal reserves and an estimated 2,600 billion cubic meters of coalbed methane resources, yet annual CBM production remains at a mere 0.002% three decades after policy implementation. What structural and regulatory barriers have prevented this unconventional natural gas source from contributing meaningfully to India's energy transition goals? This analysis examines the evolving legal framework, jurisdictional conflicts between coal and CBM rights, and the critical policy

On 30 March 2026, India lost about 34 GWh of renewable generation in a single day, not because the sun did not shine or the wind did not blow, but because there was not enough transmission capacity to carry the power. The plants were ready, the power was available, and yet it went nowhere.

The MNRE vide its advisory dated 21.08.2026 has advised Renewable Energy Implementing Agencies (“REIAs”) to consider extension of Scheduled Commencement of Supply Date (“SCSD”) and Scheduled Commissioning Date (“SCD”) on account of Force Majeure event due to West Asia Situation.

The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (“KERC”) vide notification dated 14.08.2026 has invited stakeholder comments on the Draft Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (Electricity Supply) Regulations, 2026 (“Draft ESR”) . The Draft ESR are aimed at streamlining electricity connections and related consumer services across the State and consolidate several existing regulations into a single framework governing supply of electricity in the State. Stakeholders may submit their comments on the Draft ESR within 30 days from the date of notification in the Gazette.

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026 (Act No. 20 of 2026) (MMDR Amendment Act) received Presidential assent and was published in the Gazette of India on 17 August 2026, further amending the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act).

India's Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has launched a call for proposals to accelerate concentrating solar thermal technology adoption in industrial heating, while the Central Electricity Authority has proposed mandatory co-located energy storage systems for ground-mounted solar and onshore wind projects. The regulatory landscape is also evolving across petroleum, shipping, and telecommunications sectors with significant amendments to existing frameworks.