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In the heart of India’s burgeoning energy landscape, the recent interaction between Union Power and New & Renewable Energy Minister Shri R. K. Singh and industry stakeholders unveiled a strategic vision for thermal power capacity expansion. This financial odyssey, fueled by a commitment to meet the nation’s escalating power demands, beckons investors and industry players to navigate the intricate tapestry of financial intricacies and opportunities.
In the realm of economic growth, Shri Singh’s assertion that 24×7 power availability is the lifeblood of India’s economic prosperity sets the stage for a compelling financial narrative. The ambitious target of adding 80 GW of thermal power capacity by 2031-32 underscores the financial imperative of balancing the nation’s economic aspirations with the pragmatic need for a diversified energy mix.
“Power demand of the country has increased at an unprecedented rate due to rapid growth of the economy. India needs 24×7 availability of power for its economic growth; and we are not going to compromise on availability of power for our growth. This power cannot be achieved by renewable energy sources alone.”
Against the backdrop of the National Electricity Plan projections, the financial canvas unfolds with projections indicating a coal and lignite-based installed capacity of 283 GW by 2031-32. This projection, a substantial leap from the present 214 GW, demands a meticulous financial strategy to fund the envisioned thermal capacity expansion.
“We have 27 GW under construction, and we had thought that we will add another 25 GW. But we have decided that we will start work on at least 55 GW – 60 GW of thermal capacity. As demand keeps accelerating, we will keep adding this capacity.”
Shri Singh’s forward-looking perspective extends an invitation to industry players to seize the impending wave of orders for thermal capacity addition over the next 5-7 years. The financial horizon, illuminated by a unique payment security mechanism guaranteeing payment within 75 days, positions this period as an opportune moment for investors to align their portfolios with the growing demand for thermal energy.
“Those who add capacity will gain and those who don’t will miss out on a golden opportunity.”
The financial discourse takes a pragmatic turn as EPC vendors such as GE and L&T voice their concerns regarding the bidding process. Acknowledging these concerns, Shri Singh assures a thorough examination, fostering a collaborative environment where financial challenges are met with pragmatic solutions.
“The Minister asked the vendors and contractors to submit their concerns and suggestions so that workable solutions may be devised. He assured them DISCOMs’ future power requirements will be collated and shared with the power developers and asked them in turn to share as to how much capacity they can ramp up.”
Power Secretary Shri Pankaj Agarwal injects a forward-looking dimension into the financial narrative, projecting the continued relevance of thermal energy even beyond 2031. In financial terms, the sector demands a proactive private sector, ready to align manufacturing capacities with the imminent surge in demand.
“The country absolutely needs at least 80,000 MW of capacity addition from today till 2031-32, which is essential to meet our base load requirements.”
As India charts its course towards energy self-sufficiency, investors and industry players are presented with a unique financial odyssey. The allure of thermal capacity expansion, coupled with a favorable business environment, sets the stage for a narrative where financial prudence and strategic investments pave the way for success in India’s power surge. The key to navigating this odyssey lies in a nuanced understanding of the financial landscape, embracing challenges as opportunities, and seizing the golden moment to fuel both economic growth and financial success.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making related decisions
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