Background

Today in 2024, the peak electricity demand it is in the region of 243 GW and by 2030, it is likely to cross 400 GW.

The power generation industry in India will require a total investment of Rs 33 lakh crore and 3.78 million power professionals by 2032 to meet the rising energy demands and overcome integration challenges, according to the National Electricity Plan (NEP) 2022-32 worked out by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). This demand reflects the country's ambitious plan to add 378,370 MW of capacity during this period.

During the period 2022-27, the total capacity addition is expected to be 211,819 MW. This includes renewables (179,939 MW), nuclear (6,300 MW), and thermal (coal & gas) (25,580 MW). For this period, the estimated manpower requirement is around 150.97 thousand, with 115.48 thousand technical staff and 35.49 thousand non-technical staff. The NEP says that looking ahead to the period of 2027-32, the capacity addition requirement is projected to be 291,802 MW, including renewables (259,722 MW), thermal (25,480 MW), nuclear (6,600 MW), hydro (9,732 MW), small hydro (250 MW), wind (onshore) (47,500 MW), wind (offshore) (1,500 MW), biomass (2,500 MW), and pump storage plants (19,240 MW). The corresponding manpower requirement is estimated to be 2,27,400, with 1,74,210 technical staff and 53,190 non-technical staff.

The provided manpower requirements are inclusive of both regular and contractual employment. Additionally, the Man/MW ratio may decrease further with the implementation of automation and the installation of larger-sized plants.

The National Electricity Plan released by the CEA says it is important to address the technical and non-technical manpower needed to support the ambitious capacity addition targets. The CEA's assessment reveals a total fund requirement of Rs 33,60,594 Crores for the capacity addition plans. This estimate does not include funds required for captive power plants and the renovation and modernization of existing power plants.

As India’s power sector undergoes rapid transformation with advancements in technology, increased focus on renewable energy, and evolving regulatory frameworks, the role of Human Resource becomes increasingly critical. A Human Resources in Power Sector Summit is essential to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Human Resource professionals in this dynamic industry.

This conference provides a platform for Human Resource leaders, industry experts, and policymakers to come together and discuss strategic approaches to managing and developing the workforce in the power sector. It offers a forum to share best practices, explore innovative Human Resource solutions, and tackle pressing issues such as talent acquisition, employee engagement, diversity and inclusion, and skill development.

With a focus on fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, the summit can drive initiatives to enhance leadership development, improve workplace safety, and implement effective Human Resource technologies. It also highlights the need for sustainable Human Resource practices and supports efforts to empower underrepresented groups, including women and young professionals, in the sector.

Ultimately, the summit aims to equip Human Resource professionals with the tools and insights needed to navigate the evolving landscape, ensuring that the power sector remains resilient, competitive, and inclusive.