<h1>Power utility targets coal self-sufficiency, ramps captive mining and invests Rs 66,000 crore in thermal, solar, AI upgrades</h1> A state-run power utility plans to achieve full coal self-sufficiency within three years through expanded production from captive mines, targeting 50 million tonnes annually against a current requirement of 24 million tonnes that is expected to rise with thermal capacity additions. This shift will reduce dependence on Coal India and its subsidiaries, potentially impacting existing supply contracts and procurement arrangements, especially amid concerns raised over coal quality from state-owned suppliers. The utility also plans capital expenditure of around Rs 66,000 crore for expansion of thermal, solar and battery storage capacities and for modernising its distribution network using AI and ML technologies.