According to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), India has achieved a remarkable feat in the power sector by adding a record 34,054 megawatt (MW) capacity from all sources during the financial year 2024-25. This achievement is a testament to the government’s commitment towards providing reliable and affordable electricity to all citizens.
The CEA, which is the apex body for planning and development of the power sector in India, has reported that this is the highest ever capacity addition in a single year. This significant increase in power capacity is a result of the government’s continuous efforts to boost the country’s energy sector and meet the growing demand for electricity.
The addition of 34,054 MW capacity is a combination of various sources including thermal, hydro, nuclear, and renewable energy. The thermal power sector has contributed the most with a capacity addition of 18,317 MW, followed by renewable energy with 11,788 MW, hydro with 2,190 MW, and nuclear with 759 MW. This diverse mix of power sources is a step towards achieving a balanced and sustainable energy mix for the country.
The increase in thermal power capacity is a result of the government’s focus on reviving stressed power plants and promoting the use of clean coal technologies. This has not only helped in increasing the power capacity but has also reduced the carbon footprint of the country. The renewable energy sector has also witnessed a significant growth with the addition of 11,788 MW capacity, which includes 8,532 MW of solar power and 2,946 MW of wind power. This is a clear indication of the government’s commitment towards promoting clean and green energy.
The hydro and nuclear power sectors have also contributed to the record capacity addition. The addition of 2,190 MW of hydro power is a result of the government’s efforts to harness the potential of hydroelectricity in the country. Similarly, the addition of 759 MW of nuclear power is a step towards reducing the dependence on fossil fuels and promoting a cleaner and more sustainable source of energy.
This record capacity addition is a significant achievement for the country as it will help in meeting the growing demand for electricity. It will also provide a boost to the economy by promoting industrial growth and creating job opportunities. The increase in power capacity will also help in bridging the gap between demand and supply, which has been a major challenge for the country in the past.
The government’s focus on promoting renewable energy has also helped in reducing the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels. This has not only saved foreign exchange but has also reduced the burden on the environment. The increase in renewable energy capacity has also helped in achieving the target of 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022, set by the government under the Paris Agreement.
The CEA has also reported that the country’s peak power demand has reached an all-time high of 200 GW, which is a clear indication of the growing energy needs of the country. The record capacity addition of 34,054 MW will help in meeting this demand and ensuring uninterrupted power supply to all citizens.
The government’s efforts towards promoting a sustainable and inclusive energy sector have also been recognized globally. India has been ranked 4th in the world in terms of renewable energy capacity, and this record capacity addition will further strengthen the country’s position in the global energy market.
In conclusion, the record capacity addition of 34,054 MW in the financial year 2024-25 is a significant achievement for the country. It is a result of the government’s continuous efforts towards promoting a sustainable and inclusive energy sector. This achievement not only reflects the country’s progress in the power sector but also its commitment towards building a cleaner and greener future for all. With such positive developments, India is on its way to becoming a global leader in the energy sector.
