Manohar Lal Charts States’ Power Roadmap
Patna, June 25, 2025: Union Power Minister Shri Manohar Lal chaired a crucial Regional Power Conference in Patna. He engaged directly with leaders from Eastern States and UTs to shape a unified strategy for building a resilient power sector. His core message was clear—deliver “Power for All, at All Times.”
Peak Demand Is Rising—Time to Act
India no longer faces a power deficit. In May 2024, it successfully met a peak demand of 250 GW. This figure could reach 270 GW by the end of 2025. To stay ahead, Shri Manohar Lal urged states to proactively finalize power generation tie-ups and prepare resource adequacy plans that look ahead to 2035, when demand is expected to hit 446 GW.
States Must Accelerate Transmission Projects
The Minister asked states to speed up intra-state transmission development through Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB). Furthermore, he encouraged them to tap into the Centre’s ₹1.5 lakh crore interest-free loan, announced in Budget 2025–26, to strengthen local infrastructure.
Smart Meters Can Revolutionize Billing
Shri Manohar Lal directed states to fast-track the installation of prepaid smart meters, especially in government buildings, commercial units, and high-load households. He set a target: complete government installations by August 2025 and cover industrial users by November 2025.
He emphasized that smart meters empower consumers and utilities alike. They enable accurate billing, reduce theft, and allow data-driven decision-making through AI/ML analytics.
Cutting Losses and Optimizing Costs
To reduce consumer burden, the Minister advised states to manage their power portfolios more efficiently. He asked them to focus on cutting AT&C losses and closing the gap between average cost and revenue. He also encouraged regular engagement with Electricity Regulatory Commissions for timely tariff revisions.
Renewables and Nuclear: The Balanced Future
As part of India’s sustainable energy vision, the Minister proposed that every state plan for at least one nuclear project. He reminded attendees of India’s 2047 target to reach 100 GW nuclear capacity.
Renewables are already making headway—rising from 32% in 2014 to 49% in April 2025. Shri Manohar Lal stressed strict enforcement of Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) and supported hybrid models combining renewables with energy storage.
Addressing Cybersecurity and Clearances
The Minister discussed the urgency of tackling forest clearance delays in transmission projects. He also highlighted cybersecurity threats and the importance of grid “islanding” techniques to shield the power system from cyberattacks.
Collaboration is Key to Viksit Bharat
Shri Manohar Lal reaffirmed that the Centre would fully support state efforts toward achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047. He called for continuous collaboration to build a modern, financially viable, and consumer-friendly power sector.
PM-KUSUM and Surya Ghar Must Move Faster
Minister of State Shri Shripad Naik asked states to speed up the implementation of solar schemes like PM-KUSUM and the Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. He set a completion deadline of December 2025 and emphasized the role of solar energy in rural empowerment.
Conclusion
India’s power reforms are progressing steadily, but urgency and cooperation remain essential. With the Centre and states working in sync, the vision of reliable and clean energy for every Indian is no longer a dream—it’s a reachable goal.
