Electric power systems are classified based on their function, type of current, and the nature of their components. They can be broadly categorized into generation, transmission, and distribution systems, and further subdivided into AC and DC systems. Within these categories, specific types like single-phase and three-phase systems are also distinguished.
Classification based on function:
- Generation:These systems convert energy sources (e.g., fossil fuels, nuclear, renewable sources) into electrical energy.
- Transmission:These systems transport electricity from power plants to substations and load centers, often using high-voltage lines.
- Distribution:These systems deliver electricity from substations to end-users, such as homes, businesses, and industries.
Classification based on current type:
- AC (Alternating Current) Systems:These systems use AC, which is the most common type of electricity used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
- DC (Direct Current) Systems:These systems use DC, which is less common but gaining popularity in certain applications like renewable energy integration and electric vehicle charging.
Further classifications and considerations:
- Single-phase vs. Three-phase:Single-phase systems are common in residential settings, while three-phase systems are used for higher power applications like industrial machinery.
- Low-voltage vs. High-voltage:Low-voltage systems are used in residential and smaller commercial applications, while high-voltage systems are used for transmission and distribution.
- Renewable vs. Non-renewable:Generation systems can be classified by whether they use renewable (e.g., solar, wind, hydro) or non-renewable (e.g., fossil fuels) energy sources.
- Power quality:This refers to the characteristics of the power supply, such as voltage, frequency, and harmonic distortion, which affect the reliability and performance of electrical equipment.
- Power factor:This measures how efficiently electrical power is being used, with a higher power factor indicating better efficiency.
- Smart grids and microgrids:These are advanced technologies that enhance the efficiency, reliability, and resilience of power systems.
Total Installed Capacity
As of March 31, 2025, India’s total cumulative power generation capacity has reached 475.2 gigawatts (GW). This includes both grid and off-grid capacities. The Central Electricity Authority reports a total installed capacity of 456.757.5 MW (456.7575 GW) as of November 2024. A recent report by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy shows that India has 100.33 GW of solar capacity installed.
MINISTRY OF POWER
| Updated on 12-06-2023 Source: OM SECTION |
| 1.Total Installed Capacity (As on 31.05.2023) – Source : Central Electricity Authority (CEA) |
| INSTALLED GENERATION CAPACITY (SECTOR WISE) AS ON 31.05.2023 |
| Sector | MW | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Central Sector | 1,00,055 | 24.0% |
| State Sector | 1,05,726 | 25.3% |
| Private Sector | 2,11,887 | 50.7% |
| Total | 4,17,668 |
| Installed GENERATION CAPACITY(FUELWISE) AS ON 31.05.2023 | ||
|---|---|---|
| CATAGORY | INSTALLED GENERATION CAPACITY(MW) | % of SHARE IN Total |
| Fossil Fuel | ||
| Coal | 205,235 | 49.1% |
| Lignite | 6,620 | 1.6% |
| Gas | 24,824 | 6.0% |
| Diesel | 589 | 0.1% |
| Total Fossil Fuel | 2,37,269 | 56.8 % |
| Non-Fossil Fuel | ||
| RES (Incl. Hydro) | 173,619 | 41.4% |
| Hydro | 46,850 | 11.2 % |
| Wind, Solar & Other RE | 125,692 | 30.2 % |
| Wind | 42,868 | 10.3 % |
| Solar | 67,078 | 16.1 % |
| BM Power/Cogen | 10,248 | 2.5 % |
| Waste to Energy | 554 | 0.1 % |
| Small Hydro Power | 4,944 | 1.2 % |
| Nuclear | 6,780 | 1.6% |
| Total Non-Fossil Fuel | 179,322 | 43.0% |
| Total Installed Capacity(Fossil Fuel & Non-Fossil Fuel) | 4,17,668 | 100% |
MINISTRY OF NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY
| Sector | FY 2025-26 Achievements (1st April 2025-30th April 2025) | Cumulative Achievements (as on 30.04.2025) |
|---|---|---|
| I. Installed RE Capacity (Capacities in MW) | ||
| Wind Power | 1020.73 | 51058.55 |
| Solar Power* | 2299.12 | 107945.61 |
| Small Hydro Power | 1.50 | 5102.05 |
| Biomass (Bagasse) Cogeneration | 0.00 | 9821.32 |
| Biomass(non-bagasse)Cogeneration | 0.00 | 921.79 |
| Waste to Power | 0.00 | 309.34 |
| Waste to Energy (off-grid) | 10.70 | 541.57 |
| Large Hydro Power | 47928.17 | |
| Total | 3332.05 | 223628.4 |
*Solar Power (Cumulative) : 107.95 GW
- Ground Mounted Solar Plant : 82.39 GW
- Grid Connected Solar Rooftop: 17.69 GW
- Hybrid Projects(Solar Component) : 2.89 GW
- Off-Grid Solar: 4.98 GW