India’s power sector has undergone a remarkable transformation, aimed at providing reliable, affordable and sustainable energy to its people. Over the last 9 years, significant strides have been made in enhancing power generation capacity, expanding access to electricity, promoting renewable energy, and implementing innovative policies.
India’s journey towards a greener future has gained global recognition. With the addition of over 175 GW of generation capacity in the past nine years, India has transitioned from a power deficit to a power surplus nation. The country’s commitment to renewable energy sources has played a pivotal role in achieving this feat. The tangential growth of solar and wind energy capacity has cemented India’s position as a global leader in renewable energy adoption. Today, India stands 4th globally in renewable energy installed capacity, with 43 per cent of its total installed electricity capacity coming from non-fossil energy sources.
100 per cent electricity
India’s commitment to power generation and universal electrification has been a driving force behind its transformation. The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGYA) initiative stands tall as a symbol of success, achieving universal household electrification, covering every village and district in the country. This ambitious programme has provided electricity connections to 2.86 crore unelectrified households since September 25, 2017, both in rural and urban areas. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has called this the fastest expansion of access anywhere in the world in the history of power. The availability of power in both rural and urban areas has significantly increased, with rural areas experiencing a rise from about 12 hours per day in 2014 to 22.5 hours per day currently, and urban areas enjoying nearly 24 hours of power availability.
To improve the quality and reliability of power supply in rural areas, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) was launched in 2014. The programme achieved 100 per cent village electrification in 2018, by electrifying 18,374 un-electrified villages and strengthening the distribution network
Energy saving mechanisms
The government’s efforts in promoting energy efficiency have also yielded remarkable results. Under the Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) scheme, the procured price of LED bulbs decreased by almost 90 per cent between 2014 and 2019. This initiative not only brought down electricity costs for households but also encouraged domestic manufacturing of LED bulbs, supporting the “Make in India” campaign. As a result, India has witnessed widespread adoption of energy-efficient lighting solutions, contributing to reduced energy consumption and a greener environment.
To enhance the efficiency of power distribution, the government has implemented initiatives like the Restructured Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). The RDSS has significantly reduced distribution losses of DISCOMs, from 21.5 per cent in FY 2020-21 to 16.5 per cent in FY 2021-22. These initiatives focus on reducing technical and commercial losses, improving metering and billing systems, and promoting energy efficiency. The integration of smart grids, advanced metering infrastructure, and demand response mechanisms has enhanced grid stability and allowed consumers to actively manage their energy consumption.
The transformation of India’s power sector is a remarkable story of progress and resilience. With achievements like universal electrification, rapid expansion of renewable energy, improved distribution, and enhanced energy efficiency, India has set an inspiring example for the world.
Source: Press Information BureauÂ
