Grid-India Raises Alarm Over Tamil Nadu Under-drawal Issue
In a recent development that has sent ripples through the power sector, the Grid Controller of India Limited (Grid-India) has issued a stern warning to the Tamil Nadu Transmission Corporation Limited (Tantransco) regarding the consistent under-drawal of power from the grid. According to Grid-India, this under-drawal has been a persistent issue, with the maximum quantum reaching a staggering 1,500 MW on April 6.
Grid-India, an entity under the Union Ministry of Power, oversees the intricate web of power distribution across the country. One of its crucial arms, the Southern Regional Load Despatch Centre (SRLDC), plays a pivotal role in managing the grid functions of the southern region. Notably, Tamil Nadu has been grappling with power deficits during the scorching summer months, relying on short-term power procurement and swapping arrangements to bridge the gap.
Concerns Over Available Transfer Capability
The power transfer capability from neighboring states such as Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana to Tamil Nadu is crucial for meeting the energy demands of the region. This transfer capability, known as Available Transfer Capability (ATC), is a lifeline for Tamil Nadu, allowing it to draw power from other states through various agreements and access mechanisms. In a policy note for the upcoming years, the State Energy Department highlighted that the ATC stood at 10,900 MW, underscoring the importance of efficient power utilization.
Grid-India emphasized that the SRLDC control room had been sounding the alarm bells regarding the significant under-drawal by Tamil Nadu. The State’s continuous under-drawal, starting from April 6 at 7:30 a.m., has been a cause for concern, especially considering the unrelenting power demand hovering around 13,500-14,000 MW. Despite the escalating demand, the under-drawl has only been on the rise, painting a worrisome picture of the energy landscape.
Call for Proactive Power Planning
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Grid-India pointed out a series of substantial under-drawals by Tamil Nadu on various dates, including March 22, March 23, March 29, April 2, April 3, April 4, and April 5. With the Southern region entering the peak demand season, Grid-India urged the State to meticulously plan its power portfolio and steer clear of excessive under-drawals to maintain grid stability.
Adding to the complexity of the issue, during the under-drawal period, the North Chennai Thermal Power Station (NCTPS) Stage 3 unit 1 was generating an infirm injection ranging from 500-600 MW. The commencement of infirm injection from NCTPS Stage 3 Unit 1 in January 2024 raised concerns, especially since the unit’s commercial operation date is still pending declaration. Grid-India stressed the need for a thorough review of infirm power injection in alignment with real-time system conditions to avert any potential grid disruptions.
As the power sector grapples with the intricate interplay of demand, supply, and transmission challenges, the onus lies on stakeholders to collaborate and devise sustainable solutions that ensure uninterrupted power supply for all. The recent standoff between Grid-India and Tantransco underscores the pressing need for proactive measures to address under-drawal issues and uphold the integrity of the power grid.
Published on April 14, 2025, at 12:02 am IST, this development serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance that underpins India’s power ecosystem.
