Well-coordinated plan under implementation to ensure 24×7 power supply: Omar Abdullah
Jammu, Mar 17 (PTI): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said a well-coordinated plan which includes modernisation works in transmission and distribution system is under implementation to ensure 24×7 power supply to the consumers in the Union Territory.
Abdullah also said that no major progress has been achieved in the development of a coal block in Odisha. The coal block was allocated to J&K State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC) jointly with NTPC in July, 2013 by the Union Ministry of Coal. Of the total estimated geological reserves of 396 MT, 266 MT was allocated to NTPC and 130 MT to JKSPDC.
The chief minister, who is also in-charge of the power ministry, shared the information in a written reply to a question by BJP’s Rajiv Jasrotia in the legislative assembly.
“The department is committed to providing 24/7 reliable, affordable, and high-quality power supply to every household. A well-coordinated plan, taking a holistic view of all key elements of the power supply chain, is under implementation.
“The plan includes development of several generation projects and system upgradation/modernization works in transmission and distribution systems under Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) and schemes like Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), with a target completion by 2027-28,” Abdullah said.
He said major hydro projects, namely Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle are progressing fast and are expected to collectively add over 3,000 MW in installed capacity after their commissioning by 2027.
In addition, new projects such as 390 MW Kirthai-I, 258 MW Dulhasti-II, 800 MW Bursar, 1,856 MW Sawalkote, 240 MW Uri-I Stage-II, 89 MW Ujh, and 930 MW Kirthal-II are also planned for completion within the next 10 years, he said.
To meet growing demand, he said, efforts are being made to create a balanced energy mix, including hydro, thermal, and renewable sources of energy, through creation of own generating stations and entering into Power Purchase Agreements with outside generators.
He said a resource adequacy plan has been formulated with the help of central government, taking into consideration future load projections and peak demand for the next 10 years.
