Assam’s power scenario: Explainer

Guwahati: The power scenario in Assam presents a challenging situation with a significant power shortage during peak hours, resulting in frequent load shedding. Here is a comprehensive overview of the power situation in Assam:

1. Power Generation Capacity:

Assam has a total installed capacity of approximately 379.7 MW, primarily provided by the Assam Power Generation Corporation Limited (APGCL).
The peak generation capacity of APGCL is around 250 MW, which falls significantly short of the state's peak demand.

2. Peak Demand vs. Power Production:

Assam faces a severe power deficit, with a peak demand of nearly 2500 MW during peak hours.  At present the state discom could manage only 1800 MW of power.
The state's own power generation capacity is only about 250 MW, leading to a shortfall of approximately 700 MW during peak periods.

3. Dependency on External Sources:

To meet the power demand, Assam relies heavily on purchasing electricity from power plants outside the state.
The state electricity board sometimes buys power from the open market at a cost of Rs 10 per unit, which adds to the financial burden.

4. Financial Implications:

The Chief Minister has stated that if Assam  readies to buy 700 MW of power every day to bridge the gap between demand and supply, it would cost the state approximately Rs 700 crore daily.
This daily expenditure on power purchase is unsustainable and will have severe financial implications for the state.

5. Proposed Projects:

Assam has several power projects in the pipeline to augment its power generation capacity, which includes thermal, hydro, and solar projects.
Some of the upcoming projects include the Silchar Power Project (30 MW), Margherita Thermal Power Project (660 MW), and various hydroelectric projects like Borpani Middle I HEP, Borpani Middle II HEP, Lungnit Small Hydro Electric Project, and Lower Kopili Hydro Electric Project. Additionally, there are solar PV power projects planned at LTPS and NTPS.

6. Tariff Hike or Load Shedding:

The Chief Minister has indicated that to ensure 24x7 electricity supply in Assam, tariff hikes might be necessary.
Alternatively, if the state decides not to increase tariffs, residents may have to accept up to half an hour of power supply disruptions daily during peak periods.

7. Need for Sustainable Solutions:

Assam's power crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable solutions to bridge the demand-supply gap and reduce dependency on external sources.
The development of the proposed power projects, along with investments in renewable energy sources, could help address the state's power deficit in the long term.

Assam's power scenario is challenging due to a significant power deficit during peak hours, leading to frequent load shedding. The state is heavily reliant on external power sources, incurring substantial daily expenses. 

To ensure uninterrupted power supply, the government must consider tariff adjustments and accelerate the development of planned power projects, especially in renewable energy sources, to secure a more sustainable future for Assam's energy needs.

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