ASSOCIATION OF ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION, ECONOMIC GROWTH AND FDI IN INDIA

Abstract

India is one of the largest producer and consumer of electricity in the world owing to being one of the most populous country in the world signifying the demand for electricity is only set to grow further. World has witnessed an era of economic growth aided pertinently by electricity consumption and growing demand. With FDI indorsed downright to this vital utilities sector, it becomes imperative to cognize the relationship of Electricity Consumption, Economic Growth and FDI in India. In this study we investigate the causal direction of relationship among Foreign Direct Investment, Electricity Consumption and Economic Growth in India by using time-series data for the period 1986–2021 and employing econometric models. We find two uni-directional causalities running from Electricity Consumption to Economic Growth and Economic Growth to FDI and a bi-directional causality between Electricity Consumption and FDI. The results of the study provide a novel perspective for policy makers while formulating policies related to the power sector and foreign direct investments in India. The focus of Policy makers should be on enabling electricity service providers to offer best services to commercial and non-commercial participants as it aids in Economic growth of the country. For enhanced economic growth a country like India must have good and world-class infrastructure, efficient and effective regulatory mechanism equitable for all stakeholders, an improved living standard for people of all economic strata and a stable, healthy business friendly environment coupled with policy stability through stable government.