Power Ministry Reviews Ambitious 80 GW Thermal Power Addition Plan by 2031-32
TFP Bureau, New Delhi; Nov 22, 2023: The Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Shri R. K. Singh, conducted a crucial interaction with stakeholders in the power sector on November 21, 2023, to assess progress on the ambitious goal of adding 80 GW of thermal power capacity by 2031-32. The meeting involved representatives from the Ministry of Power, state governments, Central Electricity Authority, and various public and private sector entities.
Highlighting the significance of 24×7 power availability for India’s economic growth, Minister R. K. Singh emphasized that renewable energy sources alone cannot meet the nation’s power demands. He urged the industry to invest in thermal power, stating that failure to expand capacity could result in missed opportunities.
In response to evolving energy storage challenges, Minister Singh stated, “Thermal energy cannot be written off until storage becomes cost-effective for round-the-clock supply through renewable energy.” He called upon states to ensure the full availability of their thermal capacity and stressed the importance of maintaining and running existing facilities.
The Minister disclosed the government’s decision to add 80 GW thermal power capacity by 2031-32, aiming to meet the escalating power demand driven by economic growth. Addressing industry participants, Singh announced plans to work on adding at least 55 GW – 60 GW of thermal capacity in response to accelerating demand.
Singh encouraged the industry to proactively plan for thermal capacity addition, assuring a steady stream of orders for the next 5-7 years. He emphasized the need for indigenous development and growth, stating, “Those in the power business will miss out if they are not adding capacity.”
Acknowledging concerns raised by equipment vendors during the meeting, Singh assured that their issues, including those related to the bidding process, would be addressed. The Minister urged vendors and contractors to submit their concerns and suggestions for collaborative problem-solving.
Power Secretary Shri Pankaj Agarwal echoed the Minister’s sentiments, emphasizing the relevance of thermal energy up to the year 2047. He called for the private sector to seize the opportunity and actively contribute to the planned capacity addition.
The Power Ministry’s initiative aims to strengthen India’s power infrastructure, ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply to support the nation’s economic growth.
