Experience of indian electricity market operation and other events during COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT

World over, COVID-19 pandemic has affected the behavior and livelihoods of the people. The impact is reflected in the power system operations and electricity markets. This paper examines the impact of COVID-19 on different Indian electricity market segments. The utilities on both demand side and supply side responded to situation with depressed volumes and prices. The paper also describes the measures taken by the system operator to cope up with the situation. The paper traces the resilience exhibited by Indian power system stakeholders in handling exceptional events during lockdown such as cyclones, eclipse and lights switch-off event. The implementation of initiatives such as Real Time Market and expansion of Security Constrained Economic Despatch pilot in this challenging environment is discussed briefly. The paper concludes with possible course of action contemplated for the future of Indian electricity market post COVID-19. © 2020 IEEE