Power sector proposals brighten India’s energy outlook but lasting gains need a stronger jolt of reforms

Looking ahead, grid modernization, digitalization and climate resilience will demand large investments in distribution—estimated at about $500 billion by 2050. Relying solely on public financing is neither feasible nor efficient. To realize India’s Viksit Bharat vision, we must prioritize regulatory independence, separate network access from supplies, enable transparent cost recovery and foster private investment, particularly in urban distribution.