Energy – Andhra Pradesh Pushes Power Cost Cuts and Expands Renewables Drive
AEnergy – ndhra Pradesh is accelerating changes in its power sector, aiming to bring down electricity purchase costs while scaling up clean energy generation across the state.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has asked the Energy Department to speed up structural reforms so that the average cost of power procurement falls to ₹4.60 per unit by the end of the year. The directive was issued during a high-level review meeting that focused on summer demand preparedness, future procurement plans, and implementation of key central government schemes.
Rising Demand Puts Pressure on Supply Planning
Officials briefed the Chief Minister that electricity consumption during the ongoing summer season is expected to range between 275 and 285 million units per day. Demand has already risen by about 14 percent compared to the previous year, reflecting growing consumption across sectors.
Despite this surge, the state has managed to reduce procurement costs over the past year. The average cost dropped from ₹5.20 per unit in April 2025 to ₹4.90 per unit by March 2026. Authorities outlined additional steps to further streamline purchasing strategies and reduce financial burden without affecting supply reliability.
Focus on Technology-Led, People-Centric Reforms
Naidu emphasized that future reforms should be guided by technology and designed to directly benefit consumers. He encouraged officials to examine global best practices and innovations in the energy sector, particularly in areas such as energy storage and grid management.
He also highlighted the importance of developing pumped storage projects, which can help balance supply during peak demand periods. In addition, he proposed setting up a dedicated Energy University to promote research, skill development, and innovation in the power sector.
According to the Chief Minister, consistent use of advanced technology will be key to ensuring efficient service delivery and long-term sustainability.
Renewable Energy Targets and Environmental Goals
The state government is also intensifying its push toward renewable energy. Naidu set a clear target that more than 50 percent of Andhra Pradesh’s electricity generation should come from renewable sources by 2028–29.
Officials have been instructed to prioritize environmentally sustainable methods of power generation while reducing pollution levels. The strategy includes expanding solar and other clean energy projects to meet future demand without increasing dependence on conventional fuels.
Expansion of Solar Schemes Gains Momentum
Progress under central schemes such as PM Surya Ghar and PM Kusum was also reviewed. So far, over 52,000 rooftop solar connections have been installed under PM Surya Ghar. The Chief Minister directed officials to significantly increase the pace, aiming for up to two lakh installations every month.
Under the PM Kusum scheme, nearly 2.94 lakh connections have already been provided. Authorities have been asked to complete the first phase of this program by December, ensuring wider access to solar-powered solutions, particularly in rural areas.
Electric Mobility and Infrastructure Readiness
Naidu also pointed to the growing importance of electric vehicles (EVs) in reducing emissions and fuel dependency. He stressed the need to raise public awareness about EV benefits while simultaneously building adequate charging infrastructure across the state.
Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar, along with senior officials from Transco, Genco, and various distribution companies, attended the meeting, which underscored the government’s dual focus on affordability and sustainability.
Breakthrough in Tele-Robotic Surgery Applauded
In a separate development, the Chief Minister praised medical teams from Narayana Medical College and GSL Medical College for successfully carrying out the country’s first tele-robotic surgeries. Doctors performed procedures remotely, with one team operating from Rajamahendravaram and another treating a patient in Nellore using robotic systems.
Naidu described the achievement as a major step forward in healthcare technology. He noted that such innovations can help bridge geographical gaps by allowing specialists to treat patients from distant locations without requiring travel.
Medical experts involved in the project reported that the procedures were carried out with high precision and safety. The initiative is expected to improve access to advanced medical care, reduce patient costs, and strengthen healthcare delivery systems across Andhra Pradesh.
The Chief Minister added that the collaboration between the two institutions could serve as a model for future technological advancements in the medical field.