Andhra Pradesh unveils 24x7 power plan to counter El Niño risks
AP announces energy roadmap: 1,600 MW thermal, 2,000 MWh battery storage, and pumped hydro to ensure 24x7 power amid El Niño.
The Andhra Pradesh government has rolled out a comprehensive energy strategy to guarantee round-the-clock quality power supply and reinforce the state grid against El Niño-induced disruptions. Special Chief Secretary (Energy) K. Vijayanand outlined the plan during the Andhra Pradesh Power Coordination Committee meeting at Vidyut Soudha on Tuesday.
A key component involves procuring 1,600 MW of new thermal power through tariff-based competitive bidding. To prevent fuel shortages, developers must maintain a mandatory 15-day coal stock. Additionally, APGENCO has been authorised to import coal via a transparent bidding process, while DISCOMs are instructed to draft a 12-month advance power supply plan.
To manage evening peak demand and curb solar spillage, the state will deploy 1,500 MW/6,000 MWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems at strategic locations. A further 500 MW/1,000 MWh storage project is being developed under the Centre's Viability Gap Funding scheme in partnership with NHPC. The state is also assessing a 1,344 MW pumped hydro storage project and plans to seek APERC approval for 500 MW of short-term pumped storage services.
Highlighting rising demand, Mr. Vijayanand noted that average daily power consumption in August surged 20% year-on-year to 269 million units, with peak consumption touching 286 MU. September demand is projected to reach 14,150 MW. These measures aim to ensure reliable power for households and industries, as well as uninterrupted free supply to agriculture.