How Will States Contribute to India’s Peak Electricity Demand Reaching 446 GW by 2034–35?
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Synopsis
As India's electricity demand is set to hit 446 GW by 2034-35, Power Minister Manohar Lal stresses the need for proactive planning and collaboration between the Centre and states. With a rising share of renewable energy, can India achieve a sustainable power future?
Key Takeaways
- Peak electricity demand to reach 446 GW by 2034-35.
- Importance of renewable energy and storage systems.
- Need for nuclear power projects in every state.
- Significant allocation in the Union Budget for transmission infrastructure.
- Cybersecurity measures are essential for grid resilience.
Patna, June 24 (NationPress) The peak electricity demand in India is anticipated to soar to 446 GW by the year 2034–35. To meet this demand sustainably, proactive planning and ongoing collaboration between the Centre, states, and various stakeholders are essential, as stated by Power Minister Manohar Lal during the Regional Conference for the Eastern Region States/UTs held in Bihar's capital.
The minister emphasized that states should actively promote renewable energy alongside energy storage systems to ensure reliable power supply.
India successfully managed a peak power demand of 250 GW in May 2024 and 242 GW so far in 2025.
“The peak demand is expected to increase further, nearing 270 GW later this year, showcasing India's transition from a power-deficit to a power-sufficient nation,” the minister remarked.
He stressed the significance of continuous cooperation between the Central and state governments to realize the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Manohar Lal highlighted the evolution of India’s power system into a unified national grid, fulfilling the goal of ‘One Nation-One Grid’, and underscored the necessity for a modern, financially viable power sector to support the nation's growth.
He pointed out the need for ensuring resource adequacy and establishing essential power generation capacity tie-ups.
“In developing their resource adequacy plans, states must also ensure a balanced and diversified power generation mix. This includes the addition of nuclear generation capacity, aiming to establish at least one nuclear power project in each state,” the Power Minister advised.
He urged states to address challenges related to intra-state transmission projects, including issues related to Right of Way (RoW).
States should explore various financing options, including listing transmission utilities and seeking funding from multilateral institutions.
The minister announced that the Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated Rs 1.5 lakh crore in 50-year interest-free loans to assist states with their capital expenditures, thereby strengthening transmission infrastructure.
He noted that India is progressing towards a higher share of renewable energy, which has risen from 32 percent in 2014 to 49 percent in April 2025, reflecting the national ambition to attain 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047.
The Union Minister also highlighted the significance of cybersecurity in the power sector and discussed 'Islanding Schemes' as effective strategies to mitigate power outages due to cyber incidents and enhance grid resilience.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the collaborative effort required from both the Central and state governments to address India's growing electricity demand. The emphasis on renewable energy and nuclear power is essential not only for sustainability but also for enhancing energy security. As India transitions towards a power-sufficient nation, ongoing coordination among all stakeholders will be vital for achieving these ambitious targets.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is India's projected peak electricity demand by 2034-35?
India's peak electricity demand is projected to reach 446 GW by 2034–35.
What initiatives are suggested for meeting electricity demand?
Proactive planning, promotion of renewable energy, and collaboration between the Centre and states are essential for meeting electricity demand sustainably.
What is the significance of nuclear energy in India's power strategy?
Nuclear energy is vital for diversifying the power generation mix and aims to establish at least one nuclear power project in every state.
How much has the Union Budget allocated for states' capital expenditures?
The Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated Rs 1.5 lakh crore in 50-year interest-free loans for states' capital expenditures.
What role does cybersecurity play in the power sector?
Cybersecurity is critical for preventing outages and enhancing the resilience of the power grid through measures like 'Islanding Schemes'.
