Government of India to Activate Gas-Based Power Plants to Meet Summer Electricity Demand
This decision aims to ensure maximum power generation from Gas-Based Generating Stations (GBSs) during the peak demand period.
April 15, 2024. By Abha Rustagi
This decision aims to ensure maximum power generation from Gas-Based Generating Stations (GBSs) during the peak demand period.
Under Section 11 of the Electricity Act, 2003, the government has issued directives to all Gas-Based Generating Stations, empowering them to operate and maintain their facilities according to government instructions. This move comes as a response to the significant portion of GBSs currently remaining underutilized due to commercial considerations. The order under Section 11, similar to measures taken for imported-coal-based power plants, seeks to optimize power availability from Gas-Based Generating Stations from May 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024.
GRID-INDIA will play a key role in coordinating with Gas-based Generating Stations, informing them in advance of the required number of days for gas-based power supply. Gas-Based Generating Stations with Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) will prioritize offering their power to PPA holders. Any surplus power not utilized by PPA holders will be offered in the power market. Gas-Based Generating Stations without PPAs are mandated to offer their generation in the power market.
To oversee the implementation of these directives, a high-level committee chaired by the Chairperson of the Central Electricity Authority has been formed.
This decision to activate gas-based generating stations is part of a comprehensive strategy by the Government of India to meet the escalating electricity demand during the summer season. Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy, R.K. Singh, has stressed the importance of ensuring adequate power availability to meet the rising load during hot weather conditions.
In addition to activating gas-based generating stations, the government has outlined several other measures to address the summer demand surge. Planned maintenance of power plants will be rescheduled to the monsoon season, while new capacity additions will be expedited. Partial outages of thermal power plants will be minimized, and surplus power from captive generating stations will be utilized.
Excess power will be offered for sale in the Energy Exchange, and similar directives under Section 11 will be issued for imported-coal-based power plants. Hydro power generation will be shifted to peak hours, and advanced planning by all stakeholders will ensure coal availability. These measures collectively aim to bolster the nation's power infrastructure and meet the escalating electricity demand during the summer season.
India's electricity demand has been steadily increasing, driven by economic growth, particularly during hot-weather seasons. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted above-normal maximum temperatures across most parts of the country for the 2024 hot weather season. In light of these projections, the government's proactive measures aim to address the anticipated surge in electricity demand during the season.
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