PM Narendra Modi reviews power sector, says state-specific solutions needed

PTI, May 28, 2020, 9:31 PM IST

New Delhi: Instead of going for a one-size-fits-all formula, the Power Ministry should put in place state-specific solutions to help states improve their performance in the sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said.

Reviewing the work of Power, and New and Renewable Energy ministries on Wednesday evening, Modi pointed out that the problems in the power sector, especially of electricity distribution segment, vary across regions and states.

“Instead of looking for a one-size-fits-all solution, the ministry should put in place state-specific solutions to incentivise each state to improve its performance,” an official statement issued on Thursday said.

During the review, policy initiatives including revised tariff policy and the Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2020 to redress the problems afflicting the power sector were also discussed.

The prime minister emphasised on the need to enhance consumer satisfaction while increasing operational efficiency and improving the financial sustainability of the power sector, the statement said.

Modi advised the Power Ministry to ensure that the DISCOMs (distribution companies) publish their performance parameters periodically so that the people know how their provider fares in comparison to their peers. He also emphasised that equipment used in power sector be made in India.

Regarding New and Renewable Energy, the prime minister emphasised on the need for a holistic approach for the entire supply chain of the agriculture sector, ranging from solar water pumps to decentralised solar cold storages.

He also pitched for an innovative model for rooftop solar energy. He said every state should have at least one city (either the capital city or any renowned tourist destination) which is fully solar powered using rooftop solar power generation.

Emphasis was also made on ecosystem development for manufacturing of ingots, wafers, cells and modules in India, which would also help generate employment in addition to various other advantages.

Modi also felt that the plan for carbon-neutral Ladakh should be expedited. The prime minister also batted for drinking water supply in coastal areas by harnessing solar and wind energy, the statement said.