Bihar's per capita power consumption surges over fivefold in two decades

Bihar has recorded a significant increase in electricity consumption over the past two decades, with annual per capita power consumption rising from 75 units in 2005 to 401 units in 2026, according to state energy department data. This marks a 5.3-fold increase.

The state, once known for acute power shortages, has also seen a record power supply of 9,426 MW in July 2026, compared to a meagre 700 MW in 2005. The per capita consumption had risen to 134 units by 2012.

Officials attribute the growth to universal electrification of villages and households, urbanization, and industrialization. The state achieved its target of electrifying all households in October 2018 under the 'Har Ghar Bijli' scheme. The number of electrified villages increased from 14,020 in 2005 to 39,073 currently.

Average daily power supply has improved substantially: urban areas now receive 23-24 hours of supply (up from 10-12 hours in 2005), and rural areas get 22-23 hours (up from 5-6 hours in 2005). The number of electricity consumers has grown from 17.3 lakh in 2005 to 2.22 crore in 2026. Of these, about 90 lakh smart prepaid meters have been installed.

Patna, the state capital, recorded a record power supply of 933 MW on June 21, 2026, compared to around 400 MW in 2005. The state's transmission and distribution networks have been strengthened to handle rising demand.

The improved power availability has enabled the state government to provide 125 units of free electricity per month to 1.86 crore domestic consumers, a decision taken in July 2025.

Infrastructure development includes expansion of grid sub-stations (from 45 in 2005 to 175 in 2026) and power sub-stations (from 368 in 2005 to 1,283 in 2026). These enhancements have helped reduce aggregate technical and commercial losses and ensure smoother supply.