Centre devise multi-pronged strategy to avoid power shortages during summer

Union Power Minister RK Singh chaired a review meeting on Tuesday last with senior officers from the power sector, Ministry of Coal and Ministry of Railways wherein detailed discussions took place on various aspects to meet the high electricity demand in the upcoming months, especially during April-23 and May-23.

As part of the strategy, the power utilities have been directed to undertake maintenance for coal-based power plants well in advance so that no planned maintenance is required during the crunch period.

"Directions have already been issued under section-11 to all Imported coal-based plants to run at full capacity from 16th March 2023. Adequate coal stocks would be made available at the coal-based power plants. During the meeting," the statement said.

Member Railway Board assured availability of enough rakes for the transport of coal while the Ministry of Railways has agreed to provide 418 rakes to different subsidiaries of CIL, GSS and captive blocks and also enhance the number of rakes in due course so that sufficient coal stock can be maintained at power plants, the statement said.

Gas-based power would be used to meet any peak demand.

The ministry has directed NTPC to run its 5000 MW gas-based power stations during the crunch period in Apr-May.

In addition, 4000 MW of additional gas-based power capacity would be added by other entities for availability during the summer months.

GAIL has already assured the Ministry of Power of the necessary supply of gas during the summer months.

All the hydro plants have been instructed to operate in consultation with RLDCs/ SLDCs (Regional/State Load Dispatch Centers) to optimize water utilization in current month for better availability during the next month.

An additional capacity of 2920 MW would be available through new coal-based plants which would be commissioned by the end of this month.

In addition, after direction from the Ministry, two units at Barauni (2X110MW) will be made available during the crunch period, the statement said.

The minister asked power companies to ensure that there is no load-shedding during the summer months.

He also asked all stakeholders to closely monitor the situation and take proactive actions to meet the electricity demand during the coming months, the statement said.

(With UNI inputs)