The Centre has directed coal-based captive power plants of 50 MW capacity and above to operate and generate power to the maximum extent possible from October 1 to December 31 amid rising electricity demand.
The government has invoked emergency provisions under Section 11 of the Electricity Act, directing captive coal-based power plants to maximise electricity generation during the three-month period.
The move comes as the country witnesses an unusual rise in electricity demand this September, with peak power demand nearing levels normally recorded during the peak summer period.
India’s peak power demand touched 269 GW on September 10, the highest ever peak demand recorded for the month. So far, peak power demand for the year stood at 270 GW, which was recorded during the peak summer period in May.
A captive power plant is a dedicated electricity-generation facility built and operated by an industrial company or group of factories primarily to supply electricity for their own use rather than selling power to the general public.
Under the government direction, generators will first meet their own captive demand. Any surplus electricity will be offered through power exchanges in accordance with applicable market regulations and procedures.
The government said the measure is aimed at maximising electricity availability. Captive plants have also been asked to maintain adequate coal stocks to ensure fuel availability and uninterrupted operation at maximum generation levels.
Generators will be required to submit weekly reports to the Central Electricity Authority detailing generation, captive consumption and electricity sold through power exchanges or other permitted avenues, along with information on available capacity and coal stocks.
Separately, the power ministry has extended the emergency mechanism for imported coal-based power plants at Mundra in Gujarat until December 31.
