AP to undertake power reform at `11,000 cr
It will take up Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) with the support of the Government of India
Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Government has decided to spend around Rs 11,000 crore for implementing Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) with the support of the Government of India.
GoI gives result-linked financial assistance to DISCOMs under the RDSS to improve operational efficiencies and sustainability by strengthening the supply infrastructure based on meeting prequalifying criteria and basic minimum benchmark.
The State may get around 60 per cent of total expenditure as a grant from GoI under RDSS. The power utilities bagged six major awards at the national level in a short span of the last three months. Smart meters being undertaken by the State will turn into a strong weapon for the farmers by insisting on DISCOMs to supply quality power, Special Chief Secretary, Energy K Vijayanand said on Sunday.
The smart meters will be a win-win situation for both the DISCOMs and the farmers. The smart meters ensure transparency and accountability for agriculture connections under Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Scheme, Vijayanand said.
The entire cost of the meters and their installation amounts to around Rs 4,000 crore will be borne by the State Government. The Central Government will provide around Rs 1600 crore as grant for meters.
Speaking at a teleconference on the latest developments of the power sector with AP power utilities, the Special CS for Energy said “continuous monitoring and support of Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy and guidance of Energy Minister Peddireddi Ramachandra Reddy for strengthening of the sector besides enormous consumer support and the best performance and dedication of the entire employee community of the power sector helped Andhra Pradesh power sector to become one of the best power sectors in the country.”
Vijayanand said now all the stakeholders should strive hard and continue consistent efforts to make the power sector No 1 in the country in the near future in the area of providing highest quality of supply to all categories of consumers particularly for the agriculture sector, the backbone of the State economy.”
