India's Struggle with Energy Inequality: Despite Surplus Production, Millions Lack Access

While India boasts of having produced more than enough electricity to meet its needs, a staggering number of households and individuals are still grappling with the absence or irregular access to power. This article delves into the complexities of this issue and highlights the urgent need for concerted efforts to bridge the energy gap.

Surplus Electricity or Inefficiency?

India's electricity production is currently well above its requirements, yet millions of households remain unconnected to the grid or have intermittent access to power. According to recent reports, as of 2023, there were 19,372 households that were yet to be electrified. This is a stark reminder of the inefficiencies in India's power distribution infrastructure.

The situation is even more alarming when considering broader statistics. Approximately 150 million Indians face complete lack of electricity access, and twice that number—around 300 million—have only intermittent access, receiving power for a few hours a day.

The Urban-Rural Divide

Energy inequality in India is not just a rural phenomenon. While rural areas struggle with complete or partial darkness, urban slums and informal settlements also remain largely unconnected. The root causes of this disparity are multifaceted, including inadequate infrastructure, logistical challenges, and a lack of political will to address these issues.

Why the Lack of Political Will?

The misallocation of resources and underinvestment in energy infrastructure are significant factors. Even as India continues to expand its renewable energy capacity, the distribution of this power remains a challenge. The government's focus on large, centralised power plants often overlooks the need for a robust distribution system that can bring electricity to the last mile.

The Impact on Daily Life

The lack of reliable electricity has profound implications on the daily lives of millions. Without consistent power, businesses cannot operate effectively, and educational institutions struggle to provide a quality education. Basic activities such as studying, cooking, and healthcare are severely impacted.

Solutions and Initiatives

Several initiatives have been launched to address this energy gap, including Pradhan Mantri Kisan Lapwani Haq Yojana (PM-KISAn), which aims to provide live TV channels and digital literacy to farmers. However, more comprehensive and sustained efforts are needed to ensure wide-scale electrification. These include:

Investment in decentralized renewable energy solutions like solar home systems. Improvement in grid infrastructure and extension to remote and underserved areas. Greater public-private partnerships to leverage private investments in the energy sector. Enhanced awareness and education campaigns to empower citizens to demand better services from the government. Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DOGJY), a program aimed at providing 24x7 power to rural areas.

Conclusion

Electrification is not just a matter of access to power; it is a fundamental human right that impacts every aspect of modern life. As India continues to strive towards becoming a developed nation, addressing the energy inequality that affects millions is crucial. The government, along with the private sector and civil society, must work together to bridge the last-mile gap and provide consistent, reliable electricity to all Indians.