New Delhi, January 16 – The entire country is now connected to a single power grid, announced Union Minister for Power and New and Renewable Energy, RK Singh. Speaking on Tuesday, Singh revealed that the government has successfully laid 1,93,000 kilometers of transmission lines, creating an integrated grid that links all transmission lines with one central grid.
The minister highlighted the significant progress made in the power sector over the past few years. In 2014, we could only transfer 36,000 megavolts, but now we are capable of transferring 1,16,000 megavolts. In addition, we have installed 7,00,000 new transformers, Singh said.
Singh emphasized the achievement of connecting the entire country to one grid, which allows for efficient power transfer across regions. He stated, Previously, in 2014, only 36,000 MW of power could be transferred from one corner of the country to another. However, we have worked tirelessly to strengthen the distribution system. We have invested approximately Rs 2 lakh crores in acquiring around 3000-4000 new subscribers. Moreover, we have installed about 8.30 lakh circuit lights, LED lights, and 7 lakh new transformers.
The minister also highlighted the improvement in electricity supply in rural areas. He stated, Back in 2014-15, electricity was available for only twelve and a half hours in rural areas. However, now the supply has increased to 21-22 hours. We have also put in place a new law to prevent deliberate overloading, and fines will be imposed on those found causing an overload.
Regarding renewable energy, Singh expressed satisfaction with the progress made in achieving the country’s goals. We have made necessary changes to ensure that renewable energy is green. We had set a target to achieve 40 percent power generation capacity from renewable sources by 2030, and we have already accomplished this target in 2021 itself, he revealed.
The minister further highlighted the significant reduction in Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses. In 2014, the AT&C loss of distribution companies stood at 27 percent, which we have successfully reduced to 15 percent. We have managed to minimize the loss of distribution companies by 12 percent, and we have reduced the deficit of these companies from Rs 125,000 crore to Rs 50,000 crore, Singh informed.
The achievement of connecting the entire country to one power grid is a significant milestone for India’s power sector. With improved transmission lines, increased transfer capacity, and enhanced distribution systems, the government aims to provide uninterrupted and efficient electricity supply across all regions. The transformation in the rural areas, where electricity availability has increased by almost ten hours, ensures a better standard of living for the population. Additionally, the focus on renewable energy highlights India’s commitment to sustainable power generation and reducing its carbon footprint.
As the government continues to invest in the power sector and implement crucial reforms, the future looks promising for India’s energy landscape. With improved connectivity and reduced losses, the country is on track to achieve its ambitious energy goals while ensuring reliable access to electricity for all its citizens.
