2024 Power Sector Recap: Hits and Misses Amid Energy Transition
Key Ideas
- The budget of 2024-25 introduced schemes like PM-SGMBY and National Green Hydrogen Mission to support energy transition, while some policy measures like reintroducing Approved List of Models and imposing customs duty on solar cells may hinder renewable capacity growth.
- Government initiatives in 2024 included the PM-SGMBY providing capital subsidy for rooftop solar systems, deployment plans for small nuclear reactors, and Electricity (Amendment) Rules facilitating private investments in transmission infrastructure.
- The electricity market in India has evolved with the adoption of a multi-power exchange model, leading to increased transaction volume and various market segments. Market Coupling regulations aim to achieve uniform price discovery across power exchanges.
- Challenges in 2024 included delays in passing the Electricity Amendment Bill 2022, particularly pertaining to retail competition in the distribution segment crucial for operational efficiency and consumer services improvement.
In 2024, India's power sector witnessed significant developments with a focus on energy transition and renewable energy growth. The budget of 2024-25 introduced schemes like the PM-SGMBY and National Green Hydrogen Mission to support this transition. However, concerns were raised about the adequacy of budgetary provisions for these initiatives. Initiatives like promoting research on small nuclear reactors and carbon trading were highlighted.
The deployment of Bharat Small Reactors and Small Modular Reactors, as well as the Electricity (Amendment) Rules, were noted as positive steps for energy security and private investments in transmission infrastructure.
The evolution of the electricity market through the multi-power exchange model has seen increased transaction volume, though challenges like varying prices across exchanges persist. The introduction of Market Coupling regulations aims to address this issue. However, the missed milestone of passing the Electricity Amendment Bill 2022, specifically concerning retail competition, remains a notable challenge for operational efficiency and consumer services improvement.