India is well-prepared to meet peak electricity demand during the upcoming summer months of April to June 2026, with sufficient generation capacity and strategic measures in place, according to the Ministry of Power.
The country’s installed power generation capacity currently stands at 524 GW as of February 2026, following the addition of nearly 300 GW since 2014. This expansion has enabled India to transition from a power-deficit to a power-sufficient nation.
During high-demand summer periods, around 10 GW of gas-based power is typically utilised during non-solar hours. However, challenges related to natural gas availability and price volatility—linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East—have prompted generators to explore alternative fuel sources.
Despite these constraints, the government has stated that the power system remains robust, with coal-based generation, renewable energy, and energy storage systems compensating for any shortfall in gas-based output.
To ensure uninterrupted supply during peak demand, the government has implemented a series of measures. Notably, directions have been issued under the Electricity Act, 2003, to operationalise the 4,000 MW Coastal Gujarat Power Limited (CGPL) plant of Tata Power from April 1, 2026. This is expected to enhance power availability across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab.
In addition, the government is closely monitoring the progress of thermal and hydro power projects scheduled for commissioning by June 2026. Fast-track approvals are being provided for renewable energy projects, particularly wind power and battery energy storage systems (BESS), to accelerate capacity addition.
Thermal power plant maintenance schedules have been deferred to ensure higher availability, with an estimated 10,000 MW of additional capacity expected during the summer period.
Coal supply remains stable, with approximately 58.2 million tonnes of stock available as of March 22, 2026—sufficient for around 19 days of operation at 85% plant load factor. To further strengthen supply, Coal India Limited has been directed to conduct auctions under the revised SHAKTI policy framework.
The government has also ramped up coal logistics, with average rake loading reaching 465 rakes per day over the past 10 days. Key stakeholders, including Singareni Collieries Company Limited, captive mine operators, and generation companies, have been advised to further enhance supply.
Policy reforms are also supporting capacity expansion, including the notification of the Electricity (Amendment) Rules, 2026, aimed at promoting captive power generation by industries.
Hydropower resources are being strategically managed to conserve water for peak demand periods, while all generation companies, including independent power producers and central utilities, have been instructed to maintain maximum operational availability.
On the capacity addition front, India commissioned 8,810 MW of new thermal power capacity during FY 2025–26 (up to January 2026), with projects spanning states such as Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. An additional 660 MW is expected to be commissioned by March 2026.
The update was provided by Shripad Yesso Naik in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, underscoring the government’s proactive approach to ensuring energy security and reliable power supply during peak demand periods.
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