Maharashtra: MSEDCL Procures 1,340 Million Units of Additional Electricity to Meet Summer Demand
Mumbai, 1st June 2023: In response to the surging electricity demand during the summer season, Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has successfully secured an additional 1,340 million units of electricity through short-term contracts and power exchanges in the months of March, April, and May, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply to meet consumer needs.
Vijay Singhal, Chairman and Managing Director of MSEDCL, highlighted the proactive measures taken by the company to procure the extra electricity and meet the growing demand.
To prepare for the anticipated surge in electricity demand during summer, Mahavitaran had advised customers to plan for excess electricity supply, a suggestion made by Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Acting upon this, Mahavitaran procured additional electricity, resulting in the fulfillment of the demand without any load shedding measures.
The electricity demand for Mahavitaran has witnessed a significant rise due to the summer season. In March and April, the maximum demand peaked at 24,983 MW and 24,326 MW, respectively. In May, the peak demand reached 24,047 MW.
Short-term contracts were signed to purchase 300 MW, 400 MW, and 400 MW of electricity in March, April, and May, respectively. As a result, Mahavitaran acquired an additional 656 million units of electricity during these three months.
In addition to short-term contracts, Mahavitaran also utilized power exchange facilities to meet the increased demand. Electricity was regularly purchased from power exchanges, taking into account availability and rates. The company procured 139 million units of electricity from the Power Exchange in March, followed by 329 million units in April, and 216 million units in May.
Furthermore, Mahavitaran ensured a steady supply of power through power banking agreements with Punjab and other states. Under these agreements, surplus electricity from Mahavitaran is shared with other states, and in return, Mahavitaran receives power when needed. The Koyna hydroelectric power plant has been generating and supplying up to 1900 MW to meet the electricity requirements.
To prevent power supply disruptions during the monsoon season, Mahavitaran is undertaking extensive pre-monsoon maintenance and repair work throughout the state. This may involve temporary interruptions in electricity supply at the local level. While natural calamities like storms can sometimes cause power outages, Mahavitaran strives to minimize any issues related to non-availability of power by maintaining efficient transmission lines and ensuring a reliable power supply to consumers through Mahadistribution.
