India’s electricity generation reached 1,821 Bn units in FY 2024–25, a five per cent rise from 1,734 Bn units in the previous year, but the growth in thermal power was the slowest since the Covid pandemic, according to a report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air.

Thermal generation increased by just 2.8 per cent, rising from 1,326 Bn units to 1,363 Bn units. In comparison, nuclear power grew by 18.4 per cent, large hydro by 10.8 per cent, and renewable energy by 11.4 per cent. Peak power demand reached 250.1 gigawatts in FY 2024–25, nearly meeting total demand, including unmet supply, which stood at 250.2 gigawatts — a sharp improvement from the previous year’s 10.7 gigawatt shortfall.

On the peak demand day, renewable sources contributed 15 per cent of power, up from nine per cent a year earlier. Coal and lignite saw a minor dip from 71 per cent to 70 per cent.

Opening coal stock at thermal plants rose to 58.1 MnT, a 15 per cent increase from last year, reflecting continued emphasis on stockpiling to ensure reliable power supply.

Source: Deccan Herald