Follow India Renewable Energy News on WhatsApp for exclusive updates on clean energy news and insights

Union Power Minister Calls for Resource Adequacy, Nuclear Projects in Every State, and Rs42 Lakh Crore Investment by 2032

At the Regional Conference for Eastern States and UTs in Patna, Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, stressed the urgent need for coordinated planning to meet India’s rising peak electricity demand, which is projected to reach 446 GW by FY2034–35. With peak demand already touching 250 GW in May 2024 and expected to hit 270 GW later this year, the Minister urged States to develop robust Resource Adequacy Plans and a diversified power mix, including setting up at least one nuclear project in each State.

Lal highlighted the critical state of the power distribution sector, pointing to structural inefficiencies like poor tariffs, delayed payments, and sub-par collections. He reiterated the necessity of reducing AT&C losses and bridging the gap between Average Cost of Supply (ACS) and Average Revenue Realised (ARR), urging State engagement with Electricity Regulatory Commissions for cost-reflective tariffs and timely orders.

He advocated for smart metering under the RDSS, leveraging AI/ML for improved efficiency, and expanding renewable energy with energy storage for grid reliability. India’s RE share rose from 32% in 2014 to 49% in April 2025. He also emphasized cybersecurity and islanding schemes for grid resilience. MoS Shripad Yesso Naik urged swift completion of PM-KUSUM projects by December 2025.