New Delhi: The Power Ministry has assured financial support of Rs 488 crore to Telangana under the Power System Development Fund for nine new schemes aimed at strengthening the state's power grid. "Union Minister for Power Manohar Lal Khattar assured support for nine new schemes under the Power System Development Fund, with a total investment of Rs 488 crore, aimed at enhancing the resilience of the power grid and ensuring reliable electricity supply across the state of Telangana," said the ministry in a statement on Friday.
During a review meeting held with the Chief Minister of Telangana A Revanth Reddy and state officials, the Minister emphasised the importance of the state government liquidating its legacy government department dues to be paid to DISCOMs as per the committed trajectory and for ensuring timely payment of current dues.
To assist this, Khattar said that the Central government is committed to supporting the installation of smart meters in government offices under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). Additionally, the proposal from Telangana under the planned distribution scheme will be considered on priority, he added. The minister highlighted that an improvement in the rating of DISCOMs would lead to a reduction in the cost of interest on debt, thereby benefiting the overall financial health of the power sector.
Separately, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Centre of Excellence in Energy Transition at TERI's Institute of Energy in Hyderabad at a cost of Rs 25 Cr. This collaboration aims to foster advancements in energy efficiency and sustainable energy practices.