States demand more power allocation as nighttime supply crunch worsens

Several states are seeking additional power allocations from the federal government to manage electricity shortages during nighttime hours, according to two federal government officials. The demand comes as weak hydropower output and maintenance at some plants have reduced electricity supply during evening and night periods. Clean-energy rich states including Gujarat and Rajasthan have sought extra supplies, along with Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Union Territory Delhi.

The federal government typically has access to approximately 14 to 15 gigawatts of electricity from coal and hydropower plants that it can allocate to states during supply shortfalls. However, weaker hydropower generation following an El Niño-related decline in rainfall has tightened the supplies available for redistribution among states. The federal government has already provided extra power to Punjab after the state experienced power outages of up to 14 hours per day in some areas during September.

The power allocation crunch highlights India's ongoing challenge in meeting electricity demand after sunset, despite the country's rapid expansion in renewable capacity. The Ministry of Power did not respond to requests for comment on the matter.