Context:
Grid India has advised gas-based power stations to prepare for higher generation due to forecasts of a weak southwest monsoon and lower hydropower availability. Gas-based plants are expected to play a larger role in meeting evening peak electricity demand and maintaining grid stability.
Explanation:
- GRID INDIA (Grid Controller of India Limited) is the National Grid Operator, responsible for secure, reliable and economic operation of the Indian power system.
- India’s electricity mix is dominated by coal, while gas-based power contributes only a small share but serves as an important peaking and balancing power source.
- Gas-based power plants have quick start-up and ramp-up capability, making them suitable for meeting peak demand and balancing fluctuations from solar and wind energy.
- Hydropower reservoirs provide both electricity generation and water storage; during a weak monsoon they often conserve water, reducing flexible power generation.
- Natural gas used in power plants is supplied from domestic production and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) imports, making prices vulnerable to global geopolitical disruptions.
- Indian Gas Exchange (IGX) is India’s electronic marketplace for trading natural gas, enabling short-term gas procurement.
- Under Section 11 of the Electricity Act, 2003, the government can direct generating stations to operate during extraordinary circumstances to ensure electricity supply.
La Excellence IAS Academy, the best IAS coaching in Hyderabad, known for delivering quality content and conceptual clarity for UPSC 2026 preparation.
FOLLOW US ON:
◉ YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@CivilsPrepTeam
◉ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaExcellenceIAS
◉ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laexcellenceiasacademy/
GET IN TOUCH:
Contact us at info@laex.in, https://laex.in/contact-us/
or Call us @ +91 9052 29 2929, +91 9052 99 2929, +91 9154 24 2140
OUR BRANCHES:
Head Office: H No: 1-10-225A, Beside AEVA Fertility Center, Ashok Nagar Extension, VV Giri Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Hyderabad, 500020
Madhapur: Flat no: 301, survey no 58-60, Guttala begumpet Madhapur metro pillar: 1524, Rangareddy Hyderabad, Telangana 500081
Bangalore: Plot No: 99, 2nd floor, 80 Feet Road, Beside Poorvika Mobiles, Chandra Layout, Attiguppe, Near Vijaya Nagara, Bengaluru, 560040