24/7 Electricity Across India: Power Generation Capacity to Increase by 2032
24/7 Electricity Across India: Power Generation Capacity to Increase by 2032
The Central Government aims to provide uninterrupted electricity nationwide, focusing on rural and remote areas, with a significant boost in power generation capacity by 2032.
The Central Government has announced a major initiative to provide 24-hour uninterrupted power supply across the country, particularly targeting rural and remote areas. Union Minister of State for Power, Shripad Naik, revealed in the Rajya Sabha that India’s power generation capacity will be increased by 3.37 lakh MW by 2032.
In the past decade, India has added 2.14 lakh MW to its power generation capacity, bringing the total to 4.46 lakh MW by June 2024. Additionally, a 1,95,181 km network has been established to enhance the power distribution system during this period.
To further ensure consistent power supply, a significant thermal power plant is set to be established. The Mahanimriti thermal power plant will have a capacity of 3000 MW and is projected to cost ₹15,000 crore. The emphasis, however, is increasingly on renewable energy. Despite the focus on renewables, maintaining grid stability necessitates continued thermal and hydropower generation. Consequently, the Central Government has directed states to set up thermal power plants with a combined capacity of 80,000 MW.
The power generation capacity will see significant contributions from various sources, including thermal power (80,000 MW), hydroelectric power (25,010 MW), nuclear power (14,300 MW), pumped storage (50,760 MW), small hydropower (510 MW), solar energy (1,43,980 MW) and wind power (23,340 MW). This comprehensive plan totals an additional 3,37,900 MW.
The funding for these projects, including the Mahanimriti thermal power plant, will be sourced through loans from the Rural Electrification Corporation and the Power Finance Corporation. The Mahanirmati Koradi power station will see the installation of two sets of 660 MW each, with the remaining 1680 MW added to the project.
The government’s commitment to strengthening the power distribution system is clear, with significant investments aimed at ensuring that even the most remote areas receive uninterrupted power supply. This initiative underscores India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure and achieve sustainable energy goals.
