Telangana Plans 50% Green Power, Battery Storage Expansion As Demand Surges Toward 100,000 MW By 2047

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has described electricity as the backbone of the state’s economic ambitions, rejecting opposition allegations of irregularities in upcoming power projects. Presenting a detailed plan for the state’s power sector for the period FY25 to FY35, he said that a mix of renewable energy and strategic thermal capacity would be essential to meet rising demand and maintain system reliability.

Bhatti said electricity is central to Telangana’s goals in sectors such as industry, services, AI and data infrastructure, agriculture, and employment creation. He stated that without uninterrupted power, the target of building a $3 trillion economy by 2047 would be impossible. Telangana’s power demand has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 9.77% over the last decade, far higher than national expectations, and is projected to rise 8.5% annually, with peak needs doubling in the next ten years and reaching more than 100,000 MW by 2047.

Criticizing the previous BRS government, Bhatti said the Yadadri thermal project was an example of poor planning because it is 250 km away from the nearest coal source, leading to ₹1,600 crore a year in unnecessary transport expenses. In comparison, the proposed Ramagundam project will use local coal and water, reducing costs and environmental effects. Responding to allegations of a ₹50,000 crore scam from BRS leader Harish Rao, Bhatti said the process would be transparent, with priority given to NTPC based on pricing and GENCO as a backup. He explained that renewable energy alone cannot maintain grid stability, warning that a blackout similar to the April 2025 Spain–Portugal incident could cause daily economic losses of up to ₹2,000 crore in Telangana.

Bhatti said renewable energy remains a core priority, aligned with national commitments under the Paris Agreement and enforceable Renewable Purchase Obligation rules. Telangana plans to increase green energy to 50% by 2030. Wind potential of around 25 GW will be explored, and Battery Energy Storage Systems and Pumped Storage Projects will be implemented to support round-the-clock power.

Meanwhile, IT and Industries Minister Sridhar Babu criticized the opposition for spreading false claims. He said all project costs combined do not come close to ₹50,000 crore. In response, BRS leader Harish Rao accused the government of inconsistent data and pushing thermal projects to earn commissions. He highlighted mismatches in solar capacity figures and questioned the push for new coal-based projects despite cheaper NTPC power available. He claimed pursuing thermal over renewable energy contradicts earlier policy commitments and warned of a major scam in the making.