Union Minister For Power, Manohar Lal, Assures Support for Power Grid Strengthening in Telangana Under Power System Development Fund
(Judicial Quest News Network)
Hyderabad, January 24, 2025
The Union Minister for Power, Manohar Lal, has assured robust support to the state of Telangana for strengthening its power grid infrastructure, announcing nine new schemes under the Power System Development Fund (PSDF). These schemes, with a total investment of ₹488 crore, are designed to significantly enhance the resilience of the state’s power grid and ensure a reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply across Telangana.
The announcement came during a review meeting chaired by the Union Minister, where he met with Telangana’s Chief Minister, A.Revanth Reddy, along with senior state officials. The meeting focused on critical issues concerning the state’s power sector, including improving grid stability, financial health, and the adoption of advanced technologies for better electricity management.
Strengthening Power Infrastructure
Manohar Lal emphasized the importance of these new schemes in reinforcing the state’s power infrastructure. The ₹488 crore investment will be channeled into modernizing and expanding the power grid, ensuring that the state can meet its growing electricity demand and withstand any potential challenges related to grid stability. This investment is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting states in strengthening their power sectors to cope with the evolving energy needs.
Addressing Legacy Dues and Financial Health
A key point raised during the meeting was the importance of Telangana’s government liquidating its legacy dues owed to the Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) within the agreed-upon trajectory. Shri Manohar Lal pointed out that timely payments of current dues were crucial for the financial sustainability of the state’s power sector.
In this regard, the Minister assured the state government of the Centre’s support in tackling these issues. He stated that the Government of India would extend assistance for the installation of smart meters in government offices under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). This initiative aims to promote transparency, reduce electricity losses, and enhance billing accuracy across government departments.
Additionally, Shri Manohar Lal assured that Telangana’s proposal for the planned distribution scheme would be prioritized, ensuring that the state benefits from the latest advancements in power distribution and management technologies.
Boosting the Financial Health of DISCOMs
The Union Minister also highlighted the critical role that the improvement in the ratings of Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) could play in strengthening the financial health of the state’s power sector. A higher rating would directly translate into a reduction in interest costs on debt, making financing more affordable for DISCOMs and improving their overall financial sustainability. This, in turn, would lead to better service delivery and lower electricity prices for consumers.
Collaboration for Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Further strengthening the state’s commitment to sustainable energy practices, Manohar Lal announced a significant collaboration between the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). An MoU has been signed to establish a Centre of Excellence in Energy Transition at TERI’s Institute of Energy in Hyderabad, with a dedicated investment of ₹25 crore.
The Centre will focus on advancing energy efficiency measures, promoting the use of renewable energy, and supporting the transition to a more sustainable energy system in Telangana and beyond. The collaboration aims to foster innovation and research in energy solutions that can help mitigate climate change, reduce carbon emissions, and improve the efficiency of the energy sector.
Commitment to a Green and Resilient Power Future
In conclusion, the Union Minister reiterated the Centre’s continued commitment to supporting Telangana’s energy sector and its ongoing efforts to ensure a greener, more resilient, and sustainable power future. With these investments and strategic initiatives, Telangana is poised to make significant strides in modernizing its power infrastructure, improving financial stability, and transitioning to a more sustainable energy system.
This support from the Government of India is expected to enhance the state’s ability to meet its power requirements, ensuring that every citizen has access to reliable and affordable electricity while simultaneously advancing the country’s clean energy goals.