India Charts ₹14.3 Trillion Power Overhaul to Meet 2035 Energy Demand – EQ
In Short : India plans to invest ₹13 trillion in transmission infrastructure and ₹1.3 trillion in smart meters by 2035, as per a recent report. The move aims to support a projected 446 GW peak power demand by FY2034–35. The investments will enhance grid reliability, reduce losses, and accelerate the rollout of prepaid smart meters under the RDSS scheme.
In Detail : India is set to make a significant investment in its power sector, aiming to strengthen infrastructure and improve energy efficiency. A recent report indicates that the country will invest ₹13 trillion in transmission infrastructure by 2035.
Alongside this, an additional ₹1.3 trillion will be allocated for the widespread deployment of smart meters. These investments are part of a long-term strategy to modernize India’s electricity network.
The projected investments are aligned with the anticipated rise in electricity demand. India’s peak power demand is expected to reach 446 GW by the fiscal year 2034–35, necessitating major upgrades to the national grid.
To handle this surge, the transmission network will need to be expanded and made more resilient. This includes building new transmission corridors and upgrading existing infrastructure to ensure seamless power flow across regions.
Smart metering is a key part of the plan, especially under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). Prepaid smart meters will help improve billing efficiency, reduce theft, and enhance consumer satisfaction.
By switching to smart meters, power utilities will gain real-time data, helping them optimize load management and address outages more quickly. This will also empower consumers with better control over their electricity usage.
The government’s focus on smart meters is expected to reduce Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT\&C) losses, which continue to be a challenge for many distribution companies.
Both transmission and metering investments are part of a broader digital transformation initiative in India’s power sector. These steps aim to build a future-ready, technology-driven energy ecosystem.
The report underscores that these investments are not only crucial for meeting future demand but also for ensuring energy security, operational efficiency, and sustainability across India’s rapidly evolving power landscape.
