Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), a region long grappling with power deficits and infrastructure challenges, has witnessed a significant reduction in its energy demand, marking a step forward in addressing its long-standing power issues.
In the financial year (FY) 2025, J&K’s power requirement stands at 18,439 Million Units (MU), down from 19,639 MU in FY 2023, reflecting a steady decline in demand over the last two years. This decrease signifies a trend towards greater energy efficiency and consumption optimisation, following a series of targeted governmental schemes and infrastructure upgrades. The reduction in power demand is accompanied by another positive trend: a notable decrease in the energy not supplied. The gap between energy required and energy supplied, which stood at 317 MU in FY 2023, has dropped to just 87 MU in FY 2025. This sharp improvement in the power supply situation can be attributed to the ongoing efforts by both central and local governments, which are focused on modernising the power distribution infrastructure in the region. For years, J&K has been plagued with unreliable power supply, especially in remote, mountainous areas. However, the efforts to electrify rural and underserved areas have begun to show promising results. In line with the Government of India’s vision of providing universal access to electricity, various schemes have played a critical role in improving the energy supply in the region.
Among these initiatives, the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) stands out, having successfully electrified 129 villages across the union territory. Furthermore, the Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGYA) has extended its benefits to over 3.77 lakh households, ensuring that previously unreached families now have access to electricity. Despite these achievements, challenges remain. While infrastructure improvements have made significant strides in reducing energy deficits, power supply is still inconsistent, particularly in high-altitude areas, where the power grid struggles to deliver reliable service due to the geographical terrain and infrastructural bottlenecks. Even so, the improvement in energy access is a considerable achievement, especially considering the remote areas that previously went without regular power. The financial backing for these schemes has been equally crucial in boosting the region’s energy capacity. The Government of India has allocated substantial funds for these infrastructure improvements. A total of Rs 238.86 crore has been allocated to J&K under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), with the central government contributing Rs 143.32 crore in Gross Budgetary Support (GBS). The RDSS aims to enhance power distribution by focusing on upgrading infrastructure, including the installation of smart meters, to monitor and manage energy consumption more effectively.
One of the key components of the RDSS is the installation of smart meters, an initiative aimed at modernising the region’s power management systems. The region is set to benefit from over 14 lakh consumer smart meters, 88,207 distribution transformer meters, and 896 feeder meters. This initiative will enable more accurate monitoring of electricity use and help pinpoint areas where power losses occur, ensuring that the system becomes more transparent and efficient. The overall objective is to curb the inefficiencies and pilferage that have historically plagued the region’s energy distribution. The reduction in power demand, coupled with a decrease in energy deficits, is also an indication that consumer habits are evolving. Experts suggest that the ongoing transition towards energy-efficient appliances and a greater public awareness of power conservation are playing a role in lowering overall consumption. However, as seasonal shortages—particularly during the harsh winter months—continue to affect the supply, efforts must continue to bridge the remaining gaps. Despite the progress made in improving power distribution, there are still significant hurdles to overcome. The power grid is still vulnerable to seasonal and weather-related disruptions, especially in high-altitude regions where power transmission lines can be severely affected by snowfall, storms, and landslides. Additionally, the demand for electricity is set to rise steadily in the coming years as the region continues to develop, particularly with increasing urbanisation and industrialisation in Jammu and Kashmir.
As the power demand in J&K continues to grow, experts agree that the focus should shift towards creating a more sustainable and resilient energy model for the region. Emphasising the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and hydroelectric power could significantly reduce dependency on non-renewable resources and mitigate the risks associated with fossil fuel consumption. Moreover, investments in energy storage solutions will be crucial to addressing the seasonal power shortages that still plague the region. Looking ahead, the Government of India has shown its commitment to supporting J&K’s energy needs through continued investments and reforms in the power sector. The combination of technological advancements, infrastructure upgrades, and financial support under various schemes provides a strong foundation for a future where energy access is universal, reliable, and sustainable.
Jammu and Kashmir’s success story in reducing energy deficits and increasing electrification demonstrates the potential for transforming power access across India, even in its most challenging regions. However, the region’s journey is far from complete. While the government’s initiatives are commendable, long-term solutions will require continued collaboration between the public sector, private industry, and local communities to create a truly sustainable and equitable power supply.
J&K Power Demand Declines to 18,439 MU in FY25, 3.77 Lakh Homes Powered
