The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): Bracing for a scorching summer, the government has ramped up its preparedness to meet the anticipated surge in electricity demand, implementing a multi-pronged strategy to maximize power availability and prevent any loadshedding situations.
With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) projecting higher than normal temperatures across most parts of the country, the Union Power Minister Shri R.K. Singh has been holding a series of high-level meetings to chalk out a comprehensive plan.
A key focus is on reducing partial outages of thermal power plants to bring more capacity online. The minister reviewed the status and issued directives to further reduce outages. Additionally, any planned maintenance of plants totaling 1.7 GW in April and 6-9 GW in June will be shifted to the monsoon season when demand is comparatively lower.
To expedite supply augmentation, the commissioning of new capacity additions across coal, hydro, nuclear, solar and wind projects will be closely monitored and fast-tracked. Tapping into alternative sources, the government will also explore utilizing any surplus power available from captive generating stations.
Strict compliance measures are being implemented to ensure all thermal plants offer their un-requisitioned surplus on power exchanges, as mandated by recent rules. Notices will be issued for any violation of these directives.
In a move to enhance grid stability and safety, a uniform 55% technical minimum loading has been mandated for all coal-based plants, aligning with norms already implemented for inter-state generators.
Recognizing the role of gas-based plants in meeting peak demand, the Power Ministry will review their operationalization status. If needed, Section 11 directions may be issued, similar to those for imported coal plants, to ensure their operation during summer peaks.
The existing Section 11 directions, facilitating generation from imported coal plants, will be extended till September 30th, 2024 to further bolster supply.
These measures come on the heels of a significant 13.9% surge in peak power demand during 2023-24 compared to the previous year, driven by rising consumption in both solar and non-solar hours. Total energy generation also increased by 7.1% year-on-year, with domestic coal contributing a 6.5% rise and imported coal a staggering 104% jump.
As India prepares for another sweltering summer, the government’s proactive multi-dimensional approach aims to prevent any supply crunches, ensuring reliable and uninterrupted power for consumers across the nation during the crucial season.
