New Delhi, Nov. 6 -- The government plans to make state power utilities and electricity distribution companies (discoms) procure energy storage capacity as part of their renewable power purchases, in a move aimed at reducing electricity shortages during evening and night-time hours and improving grid reliability.

Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal announced the proposed requirement at the Bharat Renewable Energy Summit in New Delhi on Thursday. He said the government was working towards finalising the regulations by March 2027, with stakeholder consultations and notification expected to be completed within three months.

The requirement is expected to apply to licensed utilities, while renewable energy developers would also face mandatory st...