In light of several global and domestic levers, such as the ongoing energy transition, changing sector economics and policies, and climate change concerns, a phasedown of coal from the power sector is almost inevitable.
The socio-environmental fallouts of generation from coal-based thermal power plants are well recognised. The revision of the environmental norms in 2015, which tightened some existing standards and introduced new parameters to check emissions, were a step to address them.
Once electricity connections are given, to improve quality of life and promote economic activities, it is essential to ensure sufficient and affordable electricity supply, delivered with good quality, and supported by good service.
Household air pollution caused by smoke from burning solid fuels for cooking is a major source of mortality and morbidity in India. Recent studies estimate that it is also a major contributor to outdoor pollution in addition to contributing to four of the five leading causes of mortality and morbidity.
Energy efficiency can play a crucial role in India’s goal to provide reliable and affordable access to energy in a sustainable and secure manner. A number of policies and programmes aimed at conserving energy, improving efficiency, and managing demand have been implemented in India in recent years.
Energy efficiency can play a crucial role in India’s goal to provide reliable and affordable access to energy in a sustainable and secure manner. A number of policies and programmes aimed at conserving energy, improving efficiency, and managing demand have been implemented in India in recent years.
Electricity distribution sector is at a cross-road, with rising cost of supply, emergence of competitive renewable supply options, loss of cross-subsidising sales, and sustained high-cost base-load surplus.
There is mounting evidence of the severe health impacts of household air pollution from burning traditional fuels such as firewood, agricultural residue, dung, coal and kerosene for cooking. This is particularly relevant in the Indian context where more than 75% of rural households in India primarily use such fuels.
The implementation of fuel surcharges has been strongly advocated by the Union Government as a measure to alleviate the financial predicament of DISCOMs. In this context, the report studies the various processes, methodologies, and practices across states to determine, levy, and recover fuel surcharges.
