CEA Unveils Phasing Plan for Flexible Operation of Coal-based Thermal Generating Units
This phased approach aims to enhance the flexibility and efficiency of coal-based thermal generating units, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient power infrastructure in India. The detailed plan provides a roadmap for utilities to systematically upgrade their facilities over the coming years, ensuring the smooth integration of flexible operational capabilities.
Discovery of Market Price for Natural Gas Through E-Bidding
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has announced the initiation of e-bidding for the discovery of market prices for domestically produced natural gas. This move towards a market-driven approach is expected to bring more efficiency, competition, and transparency to the natural gas sector, fostering a dynamic and competitive market environment.
National Hands-on Training Program on Biogas Technology and Its Implementation
This national training program has been organized by the Sardar Swaran Singh National Institute of Bio-Energy, scheduled to take place from February 19 to February 23, 2024. The training program is designed for SNDs/SNAs/BDTCs/KVIC, manufacturers of biogas plants, purification systems, engines, gas flow meters, project developers, implementers, consultants, biogas aspirants, start-ups, and field supervisory functionaries involved in the implementation of biogas programs.
Draft Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Second Amendment Rules, 2023
These rules state that on request of any owner or occupier of any premise in a Group Housing Society or Residential Colony or Resident Welfare Association, the distribution licensee shall provide individual connection for supply of electricity. The draft rules also provide that the distribution licensee shall provide a separate connection for supply of electricity for Electric Vehicle (EV) charging system. Comments or suggestion on these draft rules have been invited up to January 12, 2024. The comments shall be in a word file and can be emailed to debranjan.chattopadhyay@nic.in and narendra.kumar65@nic.in
Draft Electricity (Late Payment Surcharge and Related Matters) (Amendment) Rules 2023
These proposed amendments aim to create a more accountable and efficient electricity payment system, providing clear guidelines for addressing non-payment issues while maintaining a balance between the interests of generating companies and distribution licensees. The emphasis is on timely payments and securing the power supply chain for a robust and sustainable energy ecosystem.
Efficiency Gains & Upgradation Initiatives in Power Sector
The Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy has underscored the importance of annual maintenance and periodic upkeep in ensuring the seamless operation of power plants, including thermal and hydro facilities. The Minister highlighted the continuous efforts in Renovation & Modernisation (R&M) and Upgradation as a cost-effective means of optimizing energy resources through efficiency improvements, better availability, and capacity augmentation.
PLI for High Efficiency Solar Panel Manufacturing
The event was jointly organized by the National Solar Energy Federation of India (NSEFI), Solar Power Europe, and EU India Clean Energy and Climate Partnership. The Union Minister of State for New & Renewable Energy expressed optimism about the indigenous production of solar panels during his address at the inaugural session of the 1st India Solar Manufacturing Summit held in New Delhi.
Implementation of Smart Metering To Reduce Costs
The Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) guidelines mandate the deployment of smart meters through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) on a total expenditure (TOTEX) mode, ensuring a seamless transition and operational support to Distribution Companies (DISCOMS). The incorporation of prepaid smart metering for consumers and system metering at Feeder and Distribution Transformer levels streamlines energy accounting and auditing processes.
National Repowering & Life Extension Policy for Wind Power Projects – 2023
This policy seeks to permit repowering or replacement of older generation turbines. These turbines will be replaced with newer generation turbines that are more efficient. Moreover, they also contemplate the refurbishment of wind turbines for life extension beyond design life. This shall be subject to safety and performance assessment.
Ministry of Power Revises Energy Norms for Distribution Transformers
The Ministry of Power (MoP) has issued a notification revising the Energy Performance Standards for Distribution Transformers. The notification extends the validity of energy efficiency norms of distribution transformers that are up to 200kva. These norms will now apply to these distribution transformers until 31st December, 2024.
