TFP Bureau, New Delhi, February 20, 2025: In a groundbreaking regional meeting on the power sector, Union and State leaders came together to discuss the future of electricity distribution and governance in the northern states. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Chintan Shivir for Northern Region States, aimed to foster solutions to strengthen India’s power sector.
Chaired by Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, along with Union Minister of State for Power and NRE, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, the meeting brought together officials from Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The event highlighted the urgent need for collective efforts to address key challenges in the power sector, focusing on privatization, sustainability, and financial viability of distribution utilities.
States Seek Centre’s Support for Privatisation and Investment
One of the major takeaways from the meeting was the call from participating states for Centre’s support in privatizing distribution utilities to improve service delivery and efficiency. States also advocated for the listing of power sector utilities to attract investment and ensure long-term viability. Emphasizing the importance of a diversified approach, officials stressed the need for integrating Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and enhancing the use of renewable energy.
Focus on Smart Meters and Resource Adequacy
Participants were urged to meet Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPO) while ensuring a sustainable and resilient power sector. The discussions also touched upon the development of intra-state transmission networks, in line with demand projections for 2032. Further, states were advised to expedite the implementation of works under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and implement smart meters, data analytics, and demand-response strategies to enhance operational efficiency.
Consumer Service Ratings and Distribution Utility Rankings Unveiled
A major highlight of the meeting was the release of several key reports. The Ministry of Power launched the Consumer Service Ratings of DISCOMs and the first edition of the comprehensive Distribution Utility Ranking (DUR) for FY 2023-24. Among urban utilities, Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited, Tata Power Delhi Distribution, and Noida Power Company Limited secured top ranks. In the special category states, Uttarakhand and Assam were recognized for their excellent performance.
Strengthening Cybersecurity and Capacity Building
In his closing address, Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal emphasized the critical role the power sector plays in India’s economic growth and development. He urged for an increased focus on strengthening cybersecurity frameworks to protect critical infrastructure and called for capacity building of utility functionaries to address evolving challenges. The minister reassured states of the Centre’s full support in strengthening India’s power sector to meet growing demands.
The meeting served as a platform for states and the Centre to align on strategies to enhance power sector efficiency, promote sustainability, and secure investments for the future. These discussions will form the foundation for strategic policy reforms aimed at building a modern, resilient, and financially viable power sector.
