Load management in the Indian power sector using US experience

India has a scarcity of electric power during peak-use periods. Most Indian utilities resort to load shedding (LS) to manage the peak demand. A review of US experience with direct load control and interruptible or time-of-use (TOU) tariffs shows successful programs. Direct load control of agricultural pumps, commercial air conditioners and interruptible or TOU tariffs in the industrial sector are identified as useful options for India. Implementation strategies for these are suggested. Load management (LM) by Indian utilities may provide a better solution to the current peak power shortage than mandatory LS.