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Power Sector has assumed vital importance for the country's economic development especially in the context of liberalisation of economy. The contribution of the infrastructural sector, of which the power sector is a major constituent, to the economic development activity is substantial. The installed capacity of the country has considerably enhanced from a mere 1362 MW at the time of Independence to 84,000 MW as on 31.3.96, of which renewables constitute merely 1%.
Non-conventional energy sources are truly a gift from the Gods. Wind & Solar energy are perhaps their most bountiful. India today has among the world's largest programmes in solar energy. A sizeable research and technology base, a growing manufacturing capability, and a country-wide infrastructure for the distribution and after sale service of solar energy products have emerged. Solar energy is beginning to be used for a large number of applications. Nevertheless, the achievements so far add up only to a tiny fraction of what is needed and what is possible.
Wind and Solar power in India are the fastest growing and commercially the most viable. There is absolutely no input fuel cost, so the recurring cost is zero and the operation and maintenance costs are reduced to the absolute minimum. The most significant feature of wind and solar power are their low generation period. Power can be generated from the very first day of instaliation. With improved technology and professional expertise, wind and solar power generation has built a dominant position for itself in India. There is no doubt that investing in wind and solar energy will reduce costs and improve productivity. Above all, this world will be a healthier place to live, with energy that is eco-friendly and never ending source of power.
Most part of the country continued to be in the grip of power shortages during 1995-1996 with demand outstripping generation. While the country's requirement for the entire year was of the order of 389.721 billion units (BUs) of power, availability was a mere 354.045 BUs leaving a gap of 9.2 per cent. The country fell far short of target set for generating capacity during the year. An aggregate capacity of 2161.55 MW consisting of 421.55 MW of hydro and 1740 MW of thermal was targeted for commissioning during the year. Against this, the local generating capacity commissioned during the year was 2123.55 MW consisting of 147.05 MW of hydro and 1976.50 MW of thermal. The actual all-India plant load factor (PLF) of thermal power utilities during April 1995 to March 1996 was 63 per cent which was 0.7 per cent higher than the target of 62.3 per cent.
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