Centre assures support to states as new DISCOM performance and utility ranking reports highlight improvements in power sector
Union Power Minister Manohar Lal chaired a national-level ministerial meeting with states and Union Territories on Friday during the Bharat Electricity Summit (BES) 2026, focusing on energy security, sector reforms, and improving electricity distribution services.
The meeting brought together state energy ministers, senior officials, and policymakers to review progress in the power sector and discuss strategies to meet India’s growing energy demand.
Key Highlights
- Centre pledges full support to states for power sector reforms
- Focus on energy security, renewable energy expansion, and efficiency
- India’s installed power capacity crosses 520 GW
- New reports on DISCOM performance and utility rankings released
- Push for technology adoption, including smart meters and AI
Official Statement
Addressing the meeting, Power Minister Manohar Lal said reliable electricity is critical for economic growth and infrastructure development.
He highlighted recent improvements in power generation capacity, reduced shortages, and better performance of distribution companies (DISCOMs). He also stressed the need for closer coordination between the Centre and states to ensure affordable and efficient electricity supply.
The minister assured states that the central government would support necessary legal and administrative reforms aimed at strengthening the power sector.
Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik emphasised the growing role of technology, including artificial intelligence and smart metering, in improving efficiency and service delivery.
Focus on Energy Security and Transition
Discussions at the meeting centred on ensuring energy security amid rising demand and global uncertainties. Officials highlighted the need to increase per capita electricity consumption while accelerating the shift towards non-fossil fuel sources.
India currently has a significant share of its installed capacity coming from renewable and other non-fossil sources. The government is also exploring nuclear energy as part of its clean energy mix.
The draft National Electricity Policy, currently under consideration, outlines strategies to support long-term energy goals aligned with the “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision.
Reports on DISCOM Performance Released
Two key reports for the financial year 2024–25 were released during the meeting:
Consumer Service Ratings of DISCOMs (CSRD)
The CSRD report evaluates electricity distribution companies based on consumer service standards such as billing accuracy, grievance redressal, and transparency in tariffs.
- 66 DISCOMs assessed nationwide
- 6 received the highest A+ rating
- 21 rated A and 27 rated B+
The findings indicate overall improvement in service quality, with more utilities moving into higher performance categories and fewer falling into lower grades.
Distribution Utilities Ranking (DUR)
The DUR report provides a broader assessment of power distribution utilities, covering:
- Financial health
- Operational efficiency
- Institutional capacity
- Service delivery
The report aims to encourage reforms that make utilities more sustainable and consumer-focused.
Context: Challenges in Power Distribution
India’s power sector has made significant gains in generation capacity, but distribution remains a key challenge. Many DISCOMs face financial stress due to losses, inefficiencies, and subsidy burdens.
Improving performance at the distribution level is critical for ensuring reliable electricity supply and supporting the transition to clean energy.
Government initiatives such as smart metering and policy reforms are intended to address these issues.
Public Impact: Why This Matters
The outcomes of the meeting and the released reports could directly affect electricity consumers across the country.
Improved DISCOM performance can lead to:
- More reliable power supply
- Faster resolution of consumer complaints
- Accurate billing and transparent tariffs
- Better integration of renewable energy
For states, enhanced coordination with the Centre could help accelerate infrastructure upgrades and policy implementation.
Conclusion
The ministerial meeting at the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 highlights the government’s focus on strengthening the power sector through reforms, technology adoption, and collaboration with states.
With rising energy demand and ambitious clean energy targets, the emphasis on distribution efficiency and energy security is expected to remain central to India’s power strategy in the coming years.
Source – PIB
Edited by Mantena Sasank
Last Updated on: Friday, March 20, 2026 3:57 pm by Mantena Sasank | Published by: Mantena Sasank on Friday, March 20, 2026 3:57 pm | News Categories: Kolkata