India is gearing up for a significant boost in its power transmission infrastructure, as Union Power Minister Manohar Lal revealed ambitious plans during a recent Parliamentary meeting. By 2032, the country aims to add approximately 1.91 lakh circuit kilometers (ckm) of transmission lines and an impressive 1274 GVA of transformation capacity. This strategic initiative is essential for fulfilling India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Key Goals for India’s Power Sector
During the Parliamentary Consultative Committee meeting for the Ministry of Power, Lal emphasized that a robust power supply is crucial for India’s development. The National Electricity Plan (NEP) outlines the necessary expansion of transmission systems, which is critical to meet the growing electricity demand and generation capacity expected in the coming years.
- 1.91 lakh ckm of new transmission lines
- 1274 GVA of additional transformation capacity
- Timeline spanning from 2023 to 2032
The NEP-Transmission, developed by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), details the required enhancements and was released in October 2024. According to the Electricity Act of 2003, the CEA is responsible for crafting the National Electricity Plan in line with the overarching National Electricity Policy.
Discussing Future Challenges
The meeting not only focused on expansion plans but also addressed several pressing issues such as:
- Right of Way (RoW) challenges
- Integration of new transmission technologies
- Enhancements in cybersecurity for power systems
Members of Parliament contributed valuable suggestions and praised the ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance the transmission network across the nation. Their insights reflect a collective commitment to improving India’s energy infrastructure.
Collaborative Efforts for a Sustainable Future
In closing, Minister Lal expressed his gratitude to all participants for their insightful contributions. He emphasized the need for officials to prioritize the suggestions provided by MPs, ensuring that the initiatives align with the broader goal of benefiting the public. This proactive approach signifies a collaborative effort towards a sustainable and reliable power future for India.
By focusing on these ambitious targets, India not only strengthens its electricity transmission capabilities but also moves closer to realizing its long-term developmental goals.
