Andhra Pradesh plans 1,600 MW thermal power to ensure 24/7 electricity supply

Andhra Pradesh unveils roadmap to ensure 24X7 quality power supply amid El Niño challenges

Andhra Pradesh will procure 1,600 MW of new thermal power through tariff-based competitive bidding as part of a comprehensive energy roadmap to tackle El Niño-related challenges and maintain round-the-clock quality supply.

Special Chief Secretary (Energy) K. Vijayanand announced the initiative while addressing the Andhra Pradesh Power Coordination Committee meeting at Vidyut Soudha. He outlined the State's strategy to strengthen the grid and ensure uninterrupted power delivery across all consumer categories.

Thermal power procurement and fuel security

Under the procurement plan, developers will be required to maintain a mandatory 15-day coal stock to minimise the risk of fuel disruptions. APGENCO has been permitted to procure imported coal through a transparent competitive bidding process.

The DISCOMs have been directed to prepare a 12-month advance power supply plan to improve demand forecasting and grid management.

Battery storage and demand management

To meet the evening peak demand and reduce solar power spillage, the State is deploying 1,500 MW/6,000 MWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems at strategic locations. Another 500 MW/1,000 MWh storage project is being taken up under the Centre's Viability Gap Funding scheme in partnership with NHPC.

The State is also evaluating a 1,344 MW pumped hydro storage project and plans to seek APERC approval for 500 MW of short-term pumped storage services.

Surge in power consumption

Vijayanand said average daily power consumption in August rose 20 per cent year-on-year to 269 million units, while peak consumption touched 286 MU. September demand is expected to reach 14,150 MW.

The measures are aimed at ensuring reliable power for households and industries and uninterrupted free power supply to agriculture, he said.

Source: The Hindu