The growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics is strengthening the power sector’s ability to address its inherent complexities, according to Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) official K Sanjay Murthy. He highlighted that these technological advancements are enabling smarter management across the energy ecosystem while stressing the importance of improving operational efficiency and financial sustainability of power distribution companies (DISCOMs).
Speaking on Monday at a national conference on the power sector, Murthy said the increased use of AI and data analytics is enhancing the sector’s capacity to deal with intricate operational challenges. He emphasised that sustained and focused efforts are essential to strengthen both operational performance and the financial health of DISCOMs, which remain critical to the sector’s overall stability.
Murthy noted that the power sector has recorded significant progress over the past decade. Power generation has increased from 1,168 billion units (BU) in 2015–16 to 1,824 BU in 2025–26, reflecting substantial growth in the country’s electricity production capacity.
He also pointed out that the sources of power generation have undergone a major transformation, with a growing shift towards green energy. The share of green energy in the overall power mix has risen from 6 per cent to 24 per cent, indicating a stronger focus on sustainable energy development.
In addition, Murthy said the transmission network has expanded by more than 70 per cent, achieving a milestone of surpassing 5 lakh circuit kilometres (ckm) of transmission lines.
The CAG is organising a day-long national conference aimed at facilitating meaningful discussions on recent developments in power generation, transmission, and distribution across the country.
