Use hydropower units optimally at peak hours: Power Ministry

The power ministry has asked states to operate hydropower plants optimally at peaking hours in April and May to help support demand and maintain grid stability.

Power minister RK Singh held a meeting with states last Thursday to assess preparedness to meet electricity demand in the upcoming summer months, people aware of the deliberations said.

Hydropower plants can start at any time and, therefore, be used efficiently in the peak hours in the evening when solar and wind generation is less.

The Centre assured states of railway rakes supply for coal transport at their power plants in a fair and equitable manner, a senior government official said.

Singh also reviewed all the projects under development by states. The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) expects 229 GW peak demand in April compared to 211 GW last year.