Synopsis
Maharashtra's electricity demand is set to surpass developed countries like Germany, Spain, and Italy by 2030, according to Energy Department's Abha Shukla. The state plans to enhance its energy capacity significantly, focusing on renewable sources like solar energy to meet future challenges.Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra's electricity demand will outpace Germany by 2030.
- The state is investing Rs 3.3 lakh crore in energy transformation.
- Renewable energy focus will reduce electricity costs.
- MSKVY 2.0 will power agricultural pumps with solar energy.
- 36,000 MW of renewable energy capacity to be added.
Mumbai, Feb 21 (NationPress) The Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department, Abha Shukla, announced on Thursday that due to the state's economic growth, Maharashtra's electricity demand by 2030 is projected to surpass that of advanced nations such as Germany, Spain, and Italy.
Speaking at a seminar on the solarization of the agricultural sector in Maharashtra, organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Shukla stated, "Under the guidance of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, an extensive energy transformation initiative is in place, demanding an investment of Rs 3.3 lakh crore. Maharashtra is poised to tackle future energy challenges effectively."
Present at the event were Lokesh Chandra, Chairman and Managing Director of Mahavitaran, and Sujata Gupta, Director of Energy, ADB.
Shukla emphasized that to elevate Maharashtra to a trillion-dollar economy, the state will witness rapid economic development over the next five years, resulting in a substantial increase in electricity demand.
She elaborated that a comprehensive energy transformation plan aims to boost the state's existing capacity from 42,000 MW to 81,000 MW by 2030. The focus on renewable energy sources will not only aid in environmental conservation but will also lower electricity costs due to cheaper availability.
Shukla mentioned the Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojana 2.0 (MSKVY 2.0), which will power all agricultural pumps in the state using solar energy and provide daytime electricity to farmers, adding 16,000 MW of solar capacity in the coming years.
Additionally, the state plans to increase its electricity generation capacity by 36,000 MW from renewable sources like solar and wind energy, with the remaining demand met through conventional energy sources.
She stated, "The energy transformation strategy is meticulously designed based on the requirements of generation, transmission, and distribution sectors, with effective implementation already underway."
Lokesh Chandra added that the MSKVY 2.0 is revolutionary, aiming to operate all agricultural pumps on solar power by 2026, making Maharashtra the first state to fully adopt solar energy for agriculture.
Sujata Gupta highlighted that the state is executing the world's largest agricultural solarization project, which will benefit both the agricultural and energy sectors, particularly in reducing electricity tariffs.
"MSKVY 2.0 is a forward-thinking initiative, and the challenges encountered are being addressed effectively. The ADB collaborates with Mahavitaran to facilitate this program," Gupta concluded.
