Adequate Generation Capacity Available to Meet Growing Electricity Demand in the Country: R.K.Singh
TRP Bureau New Delhi, 28th July 2023: The Union Minister of New Renewable Energy & Power, Shri R. K. Singh, has assured that there is sufficient generation capacity to meet the increasing electricity demand in the country. During the last three years and the current year, the consumption of electricity has witnessed a significant rise. The detailed power supply position across India in terms of energy consumption for the last three years and up to June 2023 can be found in Annexure-I, available online in Rajya Sabha website.
To cater to the escalating power demand, multiple projects are underway. As of 30th June 2023, there are 18 coal-based thermal power projects, with a combined capacity of 25,440 MW, under construction. Additionally, a gas-based thermal power project with a capacity of 370 MW and 42 hydroelectric projects with a total capacity of 18,033.5 MW (25 MW and above) are also being developed. The construction of nuclear power plants is progressing, aiming for a total capacity of 8,000 MW. Notably, there are plans to add an extra 22,840 MW of coal-based thermal capacity by 2030. Out of this, 15,300 MW will come under the Central Sector, while 7,540 MW will be managed by the State Sector.
The Electricity Act of 2003 has made generation a de-licensed activity, allowing generating companies to establish and operate power stations without obtaining a license, as long as they comply with the technical standards for grid connectivity. The involvement of the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) is only necessary for hydro-generating stations.
These details were shared by Shri R. K. Singh during a session in the Lok Sabha, where he provided a written reply. He also highlighted ongoing projects in Jharkhand, including two coal-based thermal power projects by NTPC in the Central Sector with a capacity of 3,720 MW. In addition, the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) has planned the Koderma Thermal Power Project in Jharkhand, which will have a capacity of 1,600 MW.
With such measures, the government aims to ensure a reliable and adequate power supply to meet the rising electricity needs of the nation.
