India’s electricity transmission system achieved record-breaking generation and consumption in August, according to the latest monthly data from the Grid Controller of India. Electricity consumption for the month reached a new high of 152 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh), surpassing the previous record of 140 billion kWh in June and significantly higher than the 130 billion kWh consumed in the same month last year. Simultaneously, the system set a new record for the load served, reaching 237 gigawatts (GW) compared to the previous record of 223 GW in June and just 195 GW in August 2022.

The increase in total generation from all sources contributed to the electricity system’s performance. Coal-fired units saw the largest increase in generation, supplying an additional 16 billion kWh compared to the same month in 2022. Wind farms, solar power, and gas also made minor contributions. However, hydro generation slightly fell due to patchy monsoon rainfall and depleted reservoirs, meeting only 16% of total demand compared to 19% the previous year.

While renewable energy sources contribute to overall electricity generation, coal remains the primary fuel supporting India’s electricity transmission system. The country’s rail network played a significant role in ensuring uninterrupted coal supply to power producers, dispatching an average of 248 coal trains per day in August 2023, compared to 233 in August 2022 and 211 in August 2021. Increased coal production from domestic mines and enhanced availability of fuel further supported the boost in coal-fired generation.

However, despite the reliance on coal, the transmission system demonstrated improved stability and reliability. The frequency of the power grid, which is a key indicator of network reliability, experienced several periods of under-frequency between August 29 and September 1. Nevertheless, for the entire month, the system was more stable, with fewer and less severe instances of under-frequency compared to the same period the previous year.

India’s surge in renewable generation will gradually reduce the reliance on coal. The rapid growth in renewable energy installations will help curtail the need for extensive coal combustion in the long run. Though coal currently remains crucial to meet peak electricity demands, the country’s transition towards cleaner energy sources is expected to significantly reduce coal’s prominence in the future.

Sources:
– Reuters: India’s Electricity Transmission System Sets New Records in August