India Aims For 2,100 GW Power Capacity By 2047: Manohar Lal Khattar
The minister also addressed the challenges of integrating variable renewable energy sources into the grid, emphasising the need for advanced storage solutions
The Union Minister for Power, Housing & Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Monday said that by 2047, India’s power demand will reach 708 gigawatt. To meet this, the country needs to increase it's capacity by four times, i.e. 2,100 gigawatt.
"By 2047, we anticipate our power demand to reach 708 gigawatt. To meet this, we need to increase our capacity by four times, i.e. 2,100 gigawatt. This is not just about increasing capacity; it's about reimagining our entire energy landscape,” said Khattar.
While speaking at a brainstorming session on the Indian Power Sector Scenario 2047, he said, “We have set an ambitious target of 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030, effectively doubling our current capacity.” He added that his push towards green energy aligns with India's commitment to reducing carbon emissions by one billion tonnes by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
The minister also addressed the challenges of integrating variable renewable energy sources into the grid, emphasising the need for advanced storage solutions. "We are exploring innovative technologies in pump storage facilities and battery storage to ensure 24/7 power availability to our citizens,” he said.
On occasion Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power underscored the multifaceted nature of energy security, stating that it encompasses three critical elements: affordability, adequacy coupled with reliability, and sustainability. He further alluded to the recent G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration, highlighting the ambitious targets set for the sector. "The G20 members have resolved to triple renewable energy capacity and double the rate of improvement in energy efficiency," he noted.
Looking ahead to COP29, the Secretary added, "We anticipate a requirement for a sixfold increase in storage capacity.” He also underlined the need for a comprehensive planning framework to meet demand optimally and securely while calling for the flexibilisation of power purchase agreements and reduced power costs for consumers.
While speaking at the conclave Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairperson, CEA, said that a comprehensive roadmap for the power sector's evolution, tracing its growth from a mere 1 GW peak demand at independence to now targeting to four times the capacity to 2053 GW by 2047. This ambitious plan includes a significant shift towards renewable energy, with targets of 1,200 gigawatt of solar and over 400 gigawatt of wind power by 2047. A key focus is on hydro pump storage plants, with capacity expected to surge from the current 4.7 gigawatt to 116 gigawatt.
He added that the plan addresses critical areas such as flexible operation of thermal and nuclear plants, skill development, research and development, financing for energy transition, and innovative solutions in transmission and distribution.
The two-day conclave is being organised in collaboration with a broad range of stakeholders, including FICCI and CBIP, who serve as the programme partners, among a host of other organisations.
