India's power sector to rise 2.2 times to $280 billion by FY30: report

Overview

India's power generation and transmission sectors are set for significant expansion, driven by increased capital expenditure (capex) aligned with the country's GDP growth. As power intensity rises, these sectors are projected to grow substantially, which is essential to support the rapid pace of economic expansion.

Key Projections

1. Sector Growth: The power generation and transmission sectors are expected to grow 2.2 times, reaching USD 280 billion between FY24 and FY30 compared to the FY17-23 period.
2. Power Demand and Capacity:

• Power consumption is projected to grow at over 7% annually.
• Total power generation capacity is expected to increase from 442 GW in FY24 to 673 GW by FY30 to prevent power shortages.

1. Thermal Power:

• Thermal power will remain crucial for grid stability, with thermal plants currently operating at 65-70% plant load factor (PLF).
• By FY28, the average PLF is expected to exceed peak levels last seen in FY08, with thermal utilisation rates projected to reach 74% in FY25.

1. Challenges:

• Peak power deficits are becoming more frequent due to years of underinvestment.
• Addressing these deficits will require accelerating capacity additions and boosting investments in power transmission and distribution (T&D).

Investment and Capacity Additions

• Thermal Power: Annual capacity addition rates are expected to rise to 17 GW from the current 2-5 GW.
• Renewable Energy:
• Capacity additions for renewables are set to increase 3.5 times between FY24 and FY27 compared to FY10-20.
• India aims to achieve 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.

Transmission Sector

• The power transmission sector's bid pipeline has expanded significantly, growing seven-fold over the past three years. Projects valued at Rs 1 trillion are now up for bidding, reflecting the government's focus on expanding renewable energy, storage solutions, green hydrogen, data centres, and electric vehicle infrastructure.

Source: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/indias-power-sector-to-rise-22-times-to-280-billion-by-fy30-report/article68617718.ece

Question: Which is not a type of coal?

.1. Anthracite

1. Bituminous
2. Lignite
3. Adakite

World EV day: Will EVs survive without subsidy in India?

Overview

Electric Vehicles (EVs) have been positioned as a key solution for sustainable mobility globally, with India being an active participant in this transition. The Indian government, through various policies, including the Faster Adoption of Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, has been instrumental in promoting EV adoption. However, recent changes in the subsidy structure under FAME 2.0 have raised questions about the industry's ability to sustain growth without governmental support.

The FAME Scheme

The FAME scheme, launched in 2015, aimed to promote EV adoption through incentives and subsidies. FAME 1 provided initial support, while FAME 2.0, introduced in 2019, significantly boosted EV sales, particularly in the two-wheeler segment. Major manufacturers like Ola Electric and Ather Energy capitalized on these incentives, driving the market forward with innovative, affordable electric scooters.

Withdrawal of Subsidies

In 2024, the Indian government began phasing out FAME 2.0 subsidies, citing the growing demand for EVs, declining battery costs, and supportive tax policies. The withdrawal has had mixed effects on the market:

• Increased Costs: The removal of subsidies led to higher upfront costs for consumers, making EVs less affordable in India's price-sensitive market.
• Sales Impact: A noticeable decline in sales was observed post-withdrawal, indicating a demand slump.
• Industry Challenges: Suppliers, charging infrastructure providers, and battery manufacturers faced increased pressure without the financial support previously offered.

Sales Trends

EV sales data for 2024 highlights March as the peak month, likely driven by panic buying before subsidy withdrawal. Following the changes, sales figures fluctuated, making it challenging to determine the long-term impact of the subsidy removal.

Industry Adaptation and Resilience

Despite setbacks, the EV market in India has shown resilience, aided by:

• State-Level Incentives: Various state governments introduced their own EV policies and subsidies to compensate for the loss of central support.
• Technological Advancements: Ongoing improvements in battery technology and charging infrastructure are enhancing the practicality of EVs.
• Growing Consumer Awareness: Increased understanding of the environmental and cost benefits of EVs is driving gradual market recovery.

Industry Perspectives

On World EV Day, industry leaders expressed optimism about the future of EVs in India:

• Manu Saxena (TVS Motor Company) emphasized India’s potential to lead global EV innovation through self-reliant design, engineering, and supply chain excellence.
• Jyoti Malhotra (Volvo Car India) highlighted Volvo’s commitment to sustainable mobility with zero-emission vehicles.
• Shradha Suri Marwah (ACMA India) pointed to the critical role of India’s auto component industry in advancing EV-specific technologies.

Source: https://www.financialexpress.com/auto/electric-vehicles/world-ev-day-will-evs-survive-without-subsidy-in-india/3605171/

Question: What are measures taken by Indian government to promote adoption of Electric Vehicles in India?