CEA launches indigenous Resource Adequacy Tool for Discoms

The software, STELLAR, designed to assist in preparing dynamic and robust Resource Adequacy (RA) plans in alignment with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Power in June 2023 has been developed entirely in India under the active guidance of the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and will be distributed free of cost to all Discoms.

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) launched an indigenously developed Integrated Generation, Transmission and Storage Expansion Planning Model with Demand Response. This comprehensive Resource Adequacy Tool was officially unveiled by Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairperson of CEA, in the presence of Alok Kumar, former Power Secretary and current partner at The Lantau Group (TLG), along with key representatives from State Power Utilities.

The software, developed entirely in India under the active guidance of CEA, is being distributed free of cost to all States and Distribution Companies (Discoms). It is designed to support the preparation of dynamic and robust Resource Adequacy (RA) plans aligned with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Power in June 2023.

Since the release of the RA Guidelines, CEA has taken the lead in formulating RA plans for all Discoms, initially up to 2032 and now extended to 2034–35. A national-level RA plan for the same period has also been completed. With annual updates mandated, the development of a common planning tool aims to simplify the process and encourage consistent, data-driven decision-making across the country.

The newly launched model simulates the chronological operation of the power system, factoring in detailed unit commitment constraints such as ramp rates, minimum up/down times, and technical minimums. It also integrates demand response mechanisms, allowing consumer behaviour to directly influence system planning. Key features include optimisation of generation and operational costs, support for ancillary services planning, and strategic guidance for energy storage sizing and placement.

With these capabilities, the tool promises to ensure zero load shedding, eliminate stressed capacity, and promote least-cost power system solutions. It is expected to significantly enhance system reliability, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

The development of this model was supported through a Technical Assistance programme involving CEA, The Lantau Group (TLG), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). CEA has committed to continuously upgrade the tool based on user feedback from Discoms and load despatchers, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in the evolving power sector landscape.