Power Ministers' Conference 2024: Advancing India's Energy Future

On November 12, 2024, the Union Minister for Power, Shri Manohar Lal, chaired the Conference of Power Ministers of States and Union Territories in New Delhi, aimed at addressing key issues in the power sector. The conference focused on operational performance, financial health of DISCOMs, and the integration of renewable energy. In addition to the Union Minister, the event was attended by the Minister of State for Power, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, as well as representatives from multiple states, including the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, three Deputy Chief Ministers, and 12 Power Ministers.

Key Deliberations and Updates

The conference saw detailed discussions on improving the financial viability of DISCOMs, the implementation of Smart Metering, and the progress of flagship schemes such as PM-Surya Ghar Yojana. Key issues such as resource adequacy, energy storage, and the promotion of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure were also highlighted.

Financial Health of DISCOMs

The financial gap of Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) improved significantly, with the ACS-ARR gap reducing from Rs. 0.45/kWh in FY 2022-23 to Rs. 0.21/kWh in FY 2023-24. The Union Minister urged states to ensure timely payments and reduce DISCOM debts. States were encouraged to set up centralized mechanisms for government dues and implement prepaid smart meters by March 2025.

Technological Innovations and Powerthon

The launch of Powerthon Phase-II was a key highlight, focusing on integrating AI-driven solutions to address DISCOM challenges. The initiative will support up to Rs. 37 crore in financial assistance for developing 40 innovative technological solutions to improve operational efficiency.

Renewable Energy and Infrastructure

With a sharp focus on sustainability, states were urged to align with India’s target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel power by 2030. The need for optimizing renewable energy integration, such as through pumped storage projects (PSPs) and battery energy storage systems (BESS), was emphasized to meet peak demands and improve grid stability.

Arunachal Pradesh’s Energy Progress

Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein, highlighted the state’s advancements in the energy sector, including improved financial health of DISCOMs and the ongoing developments in hydropower, such as the Subansiri and Dibang projects. The state’s commitment to contributing to India’s renewable energy targets was underscored, particularly in the areas of solar electrification and EV infrastructure.

Summery of the News

Why in News	Key Points
Power Ministers’ Conference 2024 held in New Delhi.	Conference chaired by Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal (Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs).
Key Attendees	Ministers from 12 states, including Deputy Chief Ministers of Assam & Madhya Pradesh.
Financial Health of DISCOMs	Improvement in ACS-ARR gap from Rs. 0.45/kWh (FY 2022-23) to Rs. 0.21/kWh (FY 2023-24).
Smart Metering Initiative	States like Madhya Pradesh and Assam presented best practices in smart metering.
Powerthon Phase-II	Launched with Rs. 37 Cr support to incubate 40 AI-based solutions to address DISCOM issues.
Renewable Energy Target	India aims for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel power by 2030.
Arunachal Pradesh’s Energy Plans	Projected 4.98% increase in energy demand for FY 2024-25, with plans for 634 MW capacity addition.
Hydropower Potential of Arunachal Pradesh	State’s hydropower potential: 58,000 MW; major projects like Subansiri (2,000 MW) and Dibang (2,880 MW).
Power Infrastructure & EV Charging	Focus on rural electrification through solar power and EV charging infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh.
Nuclear Power Growth	Projected increase in nuclear capacity from 8 GW to 20 GW by 2032.
Energy Storage & Pumped Storage	States encouraged to focus on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs).
Resource Adequacy Plan	States to ensure capacity planning as per Resource Adequacy to meet growing power demand.
Grid Expansion & Green Energy Corridors	Identified need for expansion of Green Energy Corridors to evacuate renewable energy.
Cybersecurity in Power Sector	Emphasis on cybersecurity and use of technology for power sector improvements.
National Green Hydrogen Mission	Mentioned as part of the discussion for energy diversification.