According to projections, Jammu & Kashmir could see a 34% increase in peak electricity demand over the next five years. This is an urgent invitation to completely rethink and systematically transform its electricity infrastructure and policy.
The predictions are representative of a region that is trying to develop and improve its quality of life. However, it also highlights how weak and vulnerable our current power system is, as it does not currently meet current demand during the intense winter months and during hot summer months.
The reality of chronic power cuts – often lasting for a number of hours – is already problematic and when you add 34% to this precarious starting point, it puts us in serious danger of facing a complete energy crisis.
There are deep-rooted reasons for this concern. Jammu & Kashmir has a very large dependence on importation of electricity from the national grid and pays a great deal of money for this, while also making us extremely vulnerable to the effects of interruptions by outside agencies.
Although Jammu & Kashmir has a tremendous hydroelectric potential, we have not been able to generate the amount of electricity that is needed to keep up with demand. Additionally, a number of the transmission and distribution networks are old and inefficient; as such, they are constantly using up the reliability and the resources that are required for the successful operation of this system.
The hydroelectric potential of Jammu & Kashmir is the solution to our energy problems. It is imperative that we move forward with large, medium, and small hydroelectric projects with an emphasis on efficiency and transparency. Achieving an efficient hydroelectric system is the only way we can ultimately achieve energy independence and lower our cost of electricity.
Smart metering is just one step in the right direction but not enough by itself. To achieve our objective of reducing technical losses and improving the management of the electrical system, a massive investment will be necessary to replace transformers, feeders and conductors throughout the state with a complete overhaul within a short time span and without corruption.
While we place much faith in hydro as the cornerstone of our energy strategy, we cannot wait for hydro’s lengthy creation process; we must aggressively promote the use of solar with the establishment of rooftop solar programs for our homes and government buildings.
In addition, the solar potential in the region, especially in Ladakh and parts of Jammu, is enormous; the use of solar will provide a decentralized power supply for many people and help alleviate pressure on existing electricity grid systems. We must also consider the use of wind or other renewable sources for electricity production.
The government must continually inform the public of their responsibility to conserve energy.
In addition, we should provide incentives to promote energy efficient appliances; require strict adherence to energy efficiency standards by all commercial and industrial facilities; and promote public awareness of the use of energy during peak usage hours. Energy Efficiency is the least expensive and fastest way to create new electric energy supplies.
