Deficit to surplus: How India's power sector changed in 75 years

NEW DELHI: India has successfully turned into a power surplus nation, with total installed capacity at 3,70,106 GWh.


About 40% of the total installed capacity comes from non-fossil furls soaring.


Total installed capacity was at 1,362 GWh at the time country gained its independence. From there it has come a long way to ensure power supply in almost all houses in the country.




As a result, per capita electricity consumption went up from 16 units in 1947 to 1208 units in 2021. It means total energy consumption divided by total population.

This facilitated reduced shortages, strengthened distribution systems and enhanced.


Another key achievement made by India is in terms of growth in hydroelectricity generation.

Hydropower projects reflect India’s commitment to eco-friendly development. It provides water security, assures irrigation, boosts tourism and creates employment opportunities.

From a mere capacity of 2,195 GWh in 1947, India scaled up and produced 1.50 lakh GWh hydroelectricity in 2021.