The National Electricity Plan (NEP) for 2022-32 has been notified by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), a statutory entity under the Ministry of Power, Government of India. The NEP is developed in accordance with the National Electricity Policy and the Electricity Act of 2003. Its main purpose is to make short-term (5-year) and long-term (15-year) plans for India’s electricity needs and to evaluate power sources and expected growth.
Key Highlights of NEP 2022-32
Renewable Energy Targets: India aims to generate half of its installed electricity from renewable sources by 2030. However, the NEP suggests that this goal might be achieved as early as 2026-2027. The percentage of non-fossil capacity is predicted to rise from about 42.5% in April 2023 to 64% in 2026-2027 and further to 68.4% by 2031-2032.
Additional Coal-based Capacity: The NEP recognizes the need for additional coal-based capacity above the current 25 GW of coal-based capacity being built. The plan indicates a requirement ranging from 17 GW to roughly 28 GW of additional coal-based capacity until 2031-32.
Focus on Battery Storage: The NEP emphasizes the need for substantial investments in battery storage to support renewable energy integration. It projects a requirement of 51 GW to 84 GW of battery storage capacity by 2031-32.
Increase in Coal-fired Plant Load Factor (PLF): The NEP predicts an increase in the Plant Load Factor (PLF) of coal-fired power plants from 55% in 2026-2027 to 62% in 2031-32.
Challenges in Renewable Integration: The plan highlights the challenges arising from the growing reliance on renewable energy sources, which would require careful management and planning in the coming years.
The NEP 2022-32 sets ambitious yet attainable goals, but their achievement is contingent on significant government support and investments in renewable energy and battery storage projects.
About the Central Electricity Authority (CEA)
The Central Electricity Authority is a statutory entity established under the Electricity (Supply) Act 1948 (now under the Electricity Act 2003). Its main responsibilities include the development of immediate and long-term strategies for the electricity sector, providing advice to the government on matters related to the National Electricity Policy (NEP), and coordination of hydropower development projects among the federal, state, and private sectors.
The CEA also sets standards and requirements for electrical systems, grid connectivity, safety, and meter installation. It plays a crucial role in developing and regulating India’s electricity sector and is headquartered in New Delhi.
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