17 Essential Electricity & Power Generation Stories for Industry Leaders

Welcome to today's press review from Press Monitor, your source for media monitoring and media intelligence on India's power sector. The following 17 stories, tracked by Press Monitor's deep dive into 11 Indian publications, cover tariff hikes, renewable energy milestones, and critical infrastructure tenders. Here is your curated news on electricity and power generation.

1. J&K Power Tariff Hiked by 6.8% - Political Fallout Ensues

A front-page report in The Pioneer says the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh approved an average 6.83 per cent hike in electricity tariffs for the Union Territory of J&K for FY 2O26-27. Opposition parties, including National Conference, Bharatiya Janata Party, Peoples Democratic Party, Peoples Conference, and Apni Party, criticized the decision, accusing Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of failing to deliver on his party’s election promise of 2OO units of free electricity.

Why it matters: The Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) approved an average 6.83% hike in electricity tariffs for Jammu & Kashmir for FY 2026-27, sparking intense political backlash. Opposition parties accused Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of breaking his promise of 200 units of free electricity.

Key detail: The hike is effective from September 1, and all consumed electricity will be billed under the revised structure.

Source: The Pioneer, Asian Age, Tribune, Free Press Journal (cross-source coverage)

Next step: Expect political protests and potential policy revisions before the election season.

2. Arunachal Pradesh Achieves 100% Home Electrification

A front-page report in The Pioneer says Arunachal Pradesh has achieved 100 per cent home electrification and tap water provision, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said on Saturday. He asserted that his Government aims to ensure that the benefits of schemes reach every household.

Why it matters: Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced that Arunachal Pradesh has reached 100% home electrification and tap water provision, a landmark achievement for a remote, hilly state.

Key detail: The government aims to ensure scheme benefits reach every household.

Source: The Pioneer (front-page)

Next step: This achievement sets a benchmark for other northeastern states.

3. Centre’s ToD Power Billing Fiat Faces Political Heat in Goa

The Centre’s directive to plug gaps in the implementation of time-of-day (ToD) tariffs has placed the Pramod Sawant government in a politically sensitive spot, just six months ahead of elections. The Ministry of Power flagged Goa’s poor performance on demand-side response and recommended urgent improvement, including installation of ToD meters. Higher power bills are already causing public anger and the government was forced to withdraw a sanctioned load penalty. ToD pricing could further increase domestic power bills. Attempts to contact Power Minister Ramkrishna (Sudin) Dhavalikar for the government’s response were unsuccessful.

Why it matters: The Ministry of Power flagged Goa’s poor performance on demand-side response, recommending time-of-day (ToD) tariffs. With elections six months away, the government is under pressure to avoid public anger over higher bills.

Key detail: The government withdrew a sanctioned load penalty, but ToD pricing could further increase domestic power bills.

Source: Free Press Journal (front-page)

Next step: Watch for political maneuvering and potential tariff adjustments.

4. E-Tender for Upgradation of ECOTECH-I10 GIS Substation

A front-page report in Hindustan Times says the Greater Noida authorities have invited tenders for the e-tender spec SD-l043 to upgrade the SAS-based 33kV substation, enhance transformer capacity, and augment the existing l32/33kV capacity from 2x63MVA to 3x63MVA on a turnkey basis.

Why it matters: Greater Noida authorities invite tenders to upgrade a 33kV GIS substation, increasing capacity from 2x63MVA to 3x63MVA.

Key detail: Turnkey project includes SAS-based upgrades and transformer capacity enhancement.

Source: Hindustan Times (front-page)

Next step: Bidding process opens; infrastructure firms should review specifications.

5. RECPDCL Transfers Luhri Power Transmission to Terralight Solar Energy

A front-page report in Statesman says REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited (RECPDCL) handed over Luhri Power Transmission Limited, an SPV of inter-state transmission project, to Mss Terralight Solar Energy Tinwari Private Limited on 21 August 2026. The SPV was handed over by Rajkumar Sonkar, HoD (CS), RECPDCL, to Nitin Mahajan, General Manager (Bidding), Terralight Solar Energy Tinwari Private Limited, in the presence of Ratnesh Kumar, GM (Engg., RECPDCL and other senior officials from RECPDCL, Terralight Solar Energy Tinwari Private Limited and Central Transmission Utility of India Limited.

Why it matters: REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited (RECPDCL) handed over an SPV for an interstate transmission project to Terralight Solar Energy, marking a key step in private sector participation in power transmission.

Key detail: The transfer was formalized in the presence of senior officials from RECPDCL, Terralight, and Central Transmission Utility.

Source: Statesman (front-page)

Next step: This model could be replicated for other transmission projects.

6. Construction of 220kV LILO in Jalpura Begins

A front-page report in Times of India says public tenders are open for constructing a 220kV Metal-Clad (MC) and Direct-Current (DC) isolated high-tensile low sag (HTLS) conductor overhead transmission line (LILO) spanning Jalpura-Ecotech-I to Ecotech-L, part of Uttar Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation Limited’s efforts to expand grid connectivity.

Why it matters: Uttar Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation Limited (UPPCL) opens tenders for a 220kV metal-clad DC overhead transmission line (LILO) to expand grid connectivity.

Key detail: The line spans Jalpura-Ecotech-I to Ecotech-L, using HTLS conductors.

Source: Times of India (front-page)

Next step: Contractors to submit bids for this critical grid expansion.

7. UP Invites Tenders for YEIDA Power Line Design

"A front-page report in The Hindu says that UP Power Transmission Corporation Ltd. is seeking bids for the design, engineering, and turnkey construction of a 132 kV power line connecting Sector 28 and Sector 10 of YEIDA, as well as a similar line to Jewar. The tender, with an estimated cost of ₹3.32 crore and a completion period of 12 months, opens for online submissions on August 22nd and closes on September 21st. Bidders are advised to regularly check the E-Portal for amendments."

Why it matters: UPPCL seeks bids for design and turnkey construction of a 132 kV power line connecting Sector 28 and Sector 10 of YEIDA, and a similar line to Jewar.

Key detail: Estimated cost ₹3.32 crore, completion period 12 months. Bids close September 21.

Source: The Hindu (front-page)

Next step: This will support the Jewar airport and surrounding development.

8. West Bengal Steelmakers Seek Tariff Rollback

A front-page report in Statesman says West Bengal’s steel industry urged the state government to scrap a proposed power tariff increase and ensure assured supplies of high-grade coal and iron ore, warning that higher input costs could hurt the competitiveness of energy-intensive manufacturing.

Why it matters: The state’s steel industry urges the government to scrap a proposed power tariff increase, warning that higher input costs could hurt competitiveness of energy-intensive manufacturing.

Key detail: Industry also demands assured supplies of high-grade coal and iron ore.

Source: Statesman (front-page)

Next step: Government may face pressure to reconsider tariff plans.

9. Tender Extension Notice: UJVN Limited

A front-page report in Hindustan Times says UJVN Limited has extended the last date for downloading and submitting tenders for the cleaning of trash rack and debris disposal at Sharda Power House, Lohia head, Khatima. The last date to download the tender is 7 September 2026, submission is due by 10 September 2026, and the tender will be opened on 14 September 2026.

Why it matters: UJVN Limited extends the last date for tenders related to cleaning of trash rack and debris disposal at Sharda Power House, Lohia head, Khatima.

Key detail: New dates: download by 7 Sep, submission by 10 Sep, opening on 14 Sep 2026.

Source: Hindustan Times (front-page)

Next step: Bidders to note extended deadlines.

10. Ujjwal Maharani Bagh Tender Notice

A front-page report in Hindustan Times says that the Office of the Executive Engineer (Civil), MB-II, Chinyalisaur (Uttarkashi) invites online bids for the strengthening of strata and ground improvement works including channelization of leakage water flowing out from HRT of MB-II HEP at Gamri Gad, Distt-Uttarkashi.

Why it matters: The Office of the Executive Engineer invites bids for strengthening of strata and ground improvement works at MB-II HEP in Gamri Gad, Uttarkashi.

Key detail: Work includes channelization of leakage water from HRT.

Source: Hindustan Times (front-page)

Next step: Engineering firms with hydro experience should review.

11. Public Tender Notices Released for JTPS Malawan

A front-page report in Times of India says that several tender notices have been published for various procurement works at the 2x660 MW JTPS, Malawan, Etah. These include piping for milling system, USB port backers for DCS workstations, construction of a storage shed, and procurement of screen plates for the crusher in the coal handling plant.

Why it matters: Several procurement tenders have been published for the 2x660 MW JTPS Malawan, including piping, USB port backers, storage shed construction, and screen plates for coal handling plant.

Key detail: These tenders support ongoing operations and maintenance.

Source: Times of India (front-page)

Next step: Suppliers to bid on specific items.

12. Govt Buildings Lag in Installation of Solar Rooftop Systems

A front-page report in Deccan Herald says that rooftop solar systems can be installed on at least 59,OOO government buildings across Karnataka, potentially generating at least 698.2 MW of power, according to an analysis by the Energy Department.

Why it matters: An Energy Department analysis shows at least 59,000 government buildings in Karnataka can host rooftop solar, potentially generating 698.2 MW.

Key detail: The state aims to accelerate solar adoption on public buildings.

Source: Deccan Herald (front-page)

Next step: Policy push expected to mandate solar rooftops on government buildings.

13. DMK MLA Faces Inquiry Over Electricity Board Disputes

A front-page report in New Indian Express says Tamil Nadu DMK MLA V Senthil Balaji appeared before the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) to investigate alleged irregularities in the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) liquor business and confronted government officials over the Electricity Board's missing hard disks — reportedly 20 originally missing, now recovered. He also questioned claims about transformer installations and debt reductions under the DMK, as well as the release of anti-corruption files.

Why it matters: DMK MLA V Senthil Balaji appears before DVAC over alleged irregularities in Tasmac and disputes related to the Electricity Board, including missing hard disks and transformer installation claims.

Key detail: The inquiry involves corruption allegations and governance issues in Tamil Nadu’s power sector.

Source: New Indian Express (front-page)

Next step: Further investigation may reveal systemic issues.

14. NTA Orders Retest for 49 Candidates After Power Failure

A front-page report in Tribune says the National Testing Agency will conduct a re-examination for 49 candidates who missed the AIAPGET due to a power failure at a Jaipur centre. The agency has suspended Eduquity Career Technologies and issued a show-cause notice following the lapse.

Why it matters: A power failure at a Jaipur centre caused 49 candidates to miss AIAPGET. The National Testing Agency orders a re-examination and suspends Eduquity Career Technologies.

Key detail: The incident highlights the criticality of reliable power supply for high-stakes exams.

Source: Tribune (front-page)

Next step: NTA to implement backup power safeguards.

15. TGSPDCL Unveils Mascot and Reforms at Power Exhibition

“Selon Deccan Chronicle, la TGSPDCL a dévoilé son mascotte et des brochures mettant en avant ses réformes, ses initiatives et ses services au public lors d’une exposition inaugurée à Hyderabad. Le secrétaire principal à l'énergie, Naveen Mittal, a salué ces efforts visant à rapprocher les services publics des citoyens, et le directeur général de TGSPDCL, Jitesh V. Patil, a souligné l'objectif de l'exposition : sensibiliser le public au secteur de l'énergie et offrir aux étudiants et aux ingénieurs des connaissances sur les technologies modernes et les normes de sécurité, ainsi que sur les services consommateurs.

Why it matters: Telangana’s power distribution company launched a mascot and brochures highlighting reforms, initiatives, and services at a Hyderabad exhibition.

Key detail: Principal Secretary Naveen Mittal and MD Jitesh V. Patil emphasized public awareness and technology education.

Source: Deccan Chronicle (front-page)

Next step: Similar initiatives may be adopted by other state utilities.

16. BHEL Strategic Tie-up with Norway's Hystar for Green Hydrogen

A front-page report in Statesman says Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) and Hystar AS of Norway entered a strategic tie-up to enable phased indigenisation and local manufacturing of PEM electrolyser systems for green hydrogen projects in India. The agreement was signed by senior officials including Mr. Y. Srinivas Rao of BHEL and Mr. Fredrik Mowill, CEO of Hystar AS, in the presence of the Royal Norwegian Embassy representatives.

Why it matters: BHEL and Hystar AS (Norway) signed a strategic tie-up for phased indigenisation and local manufacturing of PEM electrolyser systems for green hydrogen projects in India.

Key detail: The agreement was signed in the presence of Royal Norwegian Embassy representatives.

Source: Statesman (front-page)

Next step: This partnership supports India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission.

17. Solar Plant Retrofitting Boosts Farmer Income in Rajasthan

“A lot of individual farmers told us, ‘We already have a steady source of income. If construction means losing energy revenue during that period, we’re not interested,” recalls Subhodeep Basu, a researcher at ICRIER, who worked on the ‘Solar as a Third Crop... study. Hence, they retrofitted the plant, one inverter at a time, allowing the remaining sections to continue generating electricity. "That way we could minimise this energy loss,” says Basu. The ICRIER team decided to advise farmers on which crops were most likely to thrive beneath the panels. Jat chose maize, hoping to grow it during the off season under the cooler microclimate created by the panels, when supplies were thin and prices higher. "This year, we harvested an abundant maize crop with much less water,” says Shiv. For this pilot, the additional cost of retrofitting, i.e., 735.3 lakh, was provided by Kotak Mahindra through their CSR programme Kotak Karma. The electricity generated by the plant would continue to flow into the grid, where Rajasthan’s distribution utility, Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd. (JVVNL), would purchase it at %3.l4 per unit for 25 years. With viability gap funding covering part of the upfront cost, the wait to recover his investment was cut almost in half. Annual profits also increased from %3.76 lakh to %4.48 lakh per acre, while the expected return on investment rose from l2% to l8%.

Why it matters: An ICRIER pilot in Kundanpura village shows how retrofitting existing solar plants with agrophotovoltaics (growing maize under panels) can increase farmer income from ₹3.76 lakh to ₹4.48 lakh per acre, with ROI rising from 12% to 18%.

Key detail: The pilot, funded by Kotak Mahindra CSR, demonstrates dual land use for energy and food.

Source: The Hindu (front-page)

Next step: This model could be scaled across Rajasthan and other states.

Closing: These 17 stories, curated by Press Monitor, offer a comprehensive view of India's electricity and power generation landscape. Which of these developments will impact your strategy? Share your thoughts in the comments. For deeper insights and live print media monitoring, stay tuned to Press Monitor.