HOW INDIA WASTES ELECTRICITY: WHY SMALL STEPS CAN LEAD TO BIG SAVINGS

India is at a crucial point in its energy journey. As one of the fastest-growing economies globally, the country's electricity consumption reached around 1,390 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2023, driven by strong industrial growth and rising household demand.

- BHARATH RANKAWAT

However, behind these impressive figures lies a major issue: electricity wastage. Shockingly, nearly 30% of the electricity used in Indian homes is lost due to inefficiencies, outdated appliances, and inadequate infrastructure. This waste not only puts pressure on the economy but also hinders India's ambitious sustainability objectives.

Understanding India's Growing Energy Needs India's energy needs are rapidly increasing, fueled by industrial expansion, urban growth, and a burgeoning middle class. The industrial sector stands as the largest electricity consumer, yet household usage has also seen substantial growth. By the year 2031-32, the peak electricity demand in the country is expected to reach 366.4 gigawatts (GW), a rise from 277.2 GW in 2026-27, as indicated by the 20th Electric Power Survey.

Although the increase in consumption reflects advancement, there are significant concerns regarding inefficiencies at multiple levels. High transmission and distribution losses persist, and inefficiencies within households contribute notably to overall energy wastage.

The Hidden Cost of Everyday Devices At the core of India's electricity wastage are everyday electronic devices. Common household items like televisions, chargers, and microwaves play a significant role in what experts refer to as "phantom loads" or standby power usage. Devices that remain plugged in but are not actively in use can account for up to 10% of a household's electricity consumption. For example, a single 10-watt charger left plugged in continuously for a year can use around 87.6 kWh of electricity. When you consider over 300 million households, the total energy loss becomes astonishing.