Adequate Capacity Available In Country To Meet Rising Power Demand: Union Power & NRE Minister

In a bid to cater to the burgeoning energy demands of the nation, India has fixed an ambitious electricity generation target of 1750 BU (Billion Units) for the fiscal year 2023-2024. The plan outlines that 75.66 per cent of the electricity will be generated from Thermal Power Plants, with an average Plant Load Factor (PLF) of 66.90 per cent. 

Assuring the public of sufficient capacity to handle the rising power requirements, the country is projected to achieve an Energy Surplus of 56,796 MU (Megawatt Units), equivalent to 3.6 per cent, and a Peak Surplus of 1,717 MW (Megawatts), accounting for 0.7 per cent of the total demand during the upcoming fiscal year.  

To augment the nation's power generation capabilities, several projects are already in progress. A total of 18 coal-based thermal power projects, with a combined capacity of 25,440 MW, are under construction. Additionally, a gas-based thermal power project with a capacity of 370 MW and 42 hydro-electric projects (above 25 MW) with a total capacity of 18,033.5 MW (as of 30 June 2023) are in the pipeline. Furthermore, the country is actively working on adding 8,000 MW of nuclear capacity in various stages of construction. 

Addressing the need to meet increased power demand during peak seasons, the government has implemented various measures to ensure maximum generation capacity availability. Power generators have been directed to complete their maintenance work well in advance of the high-demand period to prevent any disruptions. 

Moreover, close coordination is established with the Ministries of coal and railways to enhance the production and dispatch of coal. In case of any domestic coal shortages, generators have been urged to import coal for blending purposes, ensuring smooth operations and preventing load shedding. 

Efforts to optimise resources include the maximisation of coal production from captive coal blocks and the implementation of additional arrangements for gas supply to gas-based power stations through GAIL during periods of high power demand. 

In a landmark move to ensure adequate power supply, the Electricity Amendment Rule, 2022, was notified on 29 December 2022. The rule mandates the preparation of a resource adequacy plan to successfully meet consumer power demand. 

The government has also taken measures to regulate Imported Coal Based (ICB) plants by issuing statutory directions under Section 11 of the Electricity Act, compelling them to stock coal and generate power during high-demand periods. 

Not overlooking renewable resources, reservoir levels of hydroelectric stations are monitored to optimise water utilisation. All hydro plants have been directed to operate in consultation with Regional Load Dispatch Centers (RLDCs) and State Load Dispatch Centers (SLDCs) to ensure efficient water management for enhanced availability in subsequent months.