The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has issued the National Electricity Plan (NEP) for the years 2022 to 2032, emphasizing a transition towards renewable energy and addressing future electricity demands. Here are the key aspects of this plan:
1. Increase in Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity:
● The share of non-fossil based capacity is projected to rise from the current approximately 43% to around 57% by 2026-27 and to approximately 68% by the end of 2031-32.
2. Capacity Projections:
● By 2026-27, the total installed capacity is expected to be around 610,000 MW, which includes about 273,000 MW from conventional sources (coal, gas, nuclear) and about 337,000 MW from renewable sources (solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and others).
● By 2031-32, the total capacity is projected to increase to about 900,000 MW, with conventional sources making up about 304,000 MW and renewable sources about 596,000 MW.
3. Key Developments in Renewable Energy:
● Significant increases are expected in solar and wind capacities, reflecting the focus on cleaner energy sources.
4. Energy Storage and Demand:
● Energy storage capabilities are set to expand significantly to support the variability of renewable energy sources.
● The plan includes the adoption of technologies like electric vehicles and solar rooftops, which influence the projections of electricity demand and peak load requirements.
5. Coal Usage:
● Domestic coal consumption is expected to increase by 2031, indicating a continued reliance on coal power even as renewable capacities ramp up.
6. Emission Reductions:
● There are plans to reduce the average emission factor of electricity generation, indicating progress towards cleaner energy production methods.
This plan is part of the CEA’s mandate under the Electricity Act of 2003, which requires updating the national electricity strategy every five years in alignment with the National Electricity Policy.
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