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Power Ministers Gather to Address Challenges in India's Growing Power Sector

Addressing the gathering, Minister R.K. Singh emphasized the critical role of the power sector in driving India's economic growth.

November 07, 2023. By News Bureau

The Union Minister for Power and New and Renewable Energy, R.K. Singh, presided over the opening session of the National Conference of Power and New & Renewable Energy Ministers of States and UTs, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on November 6 and 7.

Addressing the gathering, Minister R.K. Singh emphasized the critical role of the power sector in driving India's economic growth. He stated, "Economic growth is dependent on the power sector. The power sector is a fundamental driving force in the progress of the nation."

He acknowledged the forthcoming COP-28 meeting and the expected focus on reducing coal usage. However, Singh made it clear that India would not compromise on ensuring the availability of power for the country's growth, even if it necessitates adding more coal-based capacity.

Singh also recognized the gap between domestic coal consumption and arrival, causing shortages. To address this, he urged all states to adopt coal blending and ensure equitable distribution of available coal resources.

Furthermore, the conference emphasized the need to expedite the implementation of projects and utilization of funds under the Reform of Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).

The Power Secretary, Pankaj Agarwal, provided insight into the nation's efforts to add approximately 10,000 MW of thermal capacity and 21,000 MW of renewable energy capacity during the current financial year. He also shared the government's commitment to reaching a total capacity of 900 GW by 2031-32.

Agarwal highlighted progress in the transmission sector, moving towards General Network Access, and the government's support for the evacuation of 5,000 MW of renewable energy from Ladakh.

In the renewable energy sector, the government has taken substantial steps, such as sanctioning a Battery Energy Storage VGF Scheme for 4,000 MWh capacity, simplifying captive power plants and open access regimes, and setting clear paths for renewable energy consumption.

Bhupinder Singh Bhalla, Secretary, New and Renewable Energy, commended the proactive role of state governments and the ambitious goal of installing 500 GW of non-fossil-fuel energy capacity by 2030.

The National Conference of Power and New and Renewable Energy Ministers of States and UTs provided a platform for leaders to address the pressing challenges and chart a course for the continued growth and sustainability of the power sector in India.

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