Electric Cooking Push Gains Momentum Amid Rising LPG Import Concerns

Why in News ?

India is increasingly exploring electric cooking solutions as a viable alternative to LPG due to rising import dependence and costs. The country spends nearly $26.4 billion annually on LPG imports, much of which passes through the Strait of Hormuz.

With electric cooking now becoming cheaper and more efficient than unsubsidised LPG, it is being seen as a key step in India’s energy transition, although concerns remain about electricity demand and grid capacity.

Background and Context

India has significantly expanded access to clean cooking fuel through schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, increasing LPG connections from 150 million in 2015 to over 332 million by 2025.

Despite this progress :

• Around 37% of households still rely on traditional fuels like firewood and dung
• India imports ~60% of LPG and ~50% of natural gas

This growing dependence exposes India to global price volatility and geopolitical risks, especially in West Asia.

Gas-Based Clean Cooking: Challenges

1. High Import Dependence

• LPG imports form a significant portion of India’s energy bill
• Supply disruptions in global chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz can impact availability

2. Affordability Issues

• Rising LPG prices affect household affordability
• Subsidy burden on the government is substantial

3. Sustainability Concerns

• Continued reliance on fossil fuels contradicts climate goals
• Highlights the need for cleaner and domestically available alternatives

Electric Cooking vs LPG: Cost and Efficiency

Cost Advantage

Studies by Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) show :

• Electric cooking is 37% cheaper than unsubsidised LPG
• Around 14% cheaper than piped natural gas

Higher Energy Efficiency

• Induction cooktops: ~85% efficiency
• LPG burners: ~40% efficiency

Electric pressure cookers are among the most energy-efficient cooking devices.

Practical Challenges

• Indian cooking requires multiple pots and simultaneous cooking
• Current induction stoves may not fully replicate flame-based cooking

Solution : Development of multi-burner and flame-simulating electric technologies

Understanding Peak Electricity Demand

Electric cooking adoption raises concerns about increased electricity demand, especially during peak hours.

What is Peak Demand ?

Peak demand refers to periods when electricity usage spikes due to simultaneous consumption.

India’s Rising Demand

• Increased from 148 GW (2014) to 242.5 GW (2025)
• As per the International Energy Agency (IEA), every 1°C rise in temperature can increase demand by ~7 GW

Impact of Electric Cooking

Mass adoption of electric cooking could :

• Increase evening peak demand
• Raise electricity costs in spot markets
• Stress grid infrastructure

Mitigation Strategy

• Automated Demand Response Systems to manage consumption
• Smart grids and time-based electricity pricing

Rooftop Solar and Decentralised Energy Solutions

Prosumers and Energy Independence

Rooftop solar systems can turn households into prosumers (producers + consumers).

• Generate electricity during the day
• Store surplus energy in batteries
• Use stored energy during peak hours

Growth of Rooftop Solar

India’s rooftop solar capacity is expected to grow :

• From 24 GW (2026) to over 41 GW by 2030

Supported by schemes like :

• PM-Surya Ghar Yojana

Peer-to-Peer Energy Trading

• Enables households to sell surplus power locally
• Example: Pilot in Lucknow using blockchain reduced energy costs by ~43%

Benefits :

• Reduces grid burden
• Creates local energy markets
• Enhances efficiency

Policy Steps for Electrifying Kitchens

India has initiated several programs :

• Go Electric Campaign
• National Efficient Cooking Programme
• Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) star labelling for appliances
• Rooftop solar incentives under PM-Surya Ghar Yojana

Suggested Reforms

• Redirect LPG subsidies toward electric cooking appliances
• Bulk procurement via Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL)
• Introduce time-of-use tariffs
• Promote urban-first electrification strategy

Significance of Electric Cooking Transition

1. Strengthening Energy Security

Reducing LPG imports lowers dependence on volatile global supply chains.

2. Supporting Climate Goals

Electric cooking reduces carbon emissions, especially when powered by renewable energy.

3. Economic Benefits

• Lower household energy costs
• Reduced subsidy burden on government

4. Boost to Renewable Energy Ecosystem

Encourages adoption of solar energy and decentralised grids.

5. Inclusive Energy Transition

Urban adoption can free LPG supply for rural and underserved households.

Way Forward

• Focus on urban electrification first
• Expand renewable energy integration
• Strengthen grid infrastructure and storage systems
• Encourage innovation in cooking technologies
• Promote behavioural change and awareness

A balanced approach is essential to ensure affordability, reliability, and sustainability.