APERC to renew the Sick Industrial Policy to help units facing closure

Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) would balance the interests of electricity consumers and power utilities and is focusing on a consumer-centric approach and reliable power supply to all categories of consumers.

This was stated by its chairman Justice Nagarjuna Reddy while holding a video conference along with members Rajagopal Reddy and Takurram Singh to explain various aspects of the power sector in AP.

He advised DISCOMs to make necessary arrangements for sale of modern Energy-Efficient (EE) appliances for the domestic sector to achieve the aim of energy efficiency and make every household aware of the need for limiting the use of electricity and for protecting the environment.

Justice Reddy said the APSEEDCO has issued tenders for procurement of energy efficient appliances. The tenders for procurement shall be finalised by March 15. Thereafter, energy-efficient home appliances would be made available to consumers through the on-bill financing model and upfront model in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam and Tirupati.

The government is planning to make the energy efficient appliances available in the entire state in a phased manner, he said.

The chairman said APERC has taken steps to renew the Sick Industry Policy to avoid the burden of minimum charges during periods of prolonged closure of industrial units. “The commission undertakes regular field visits to monitor the network, service, progress of works and performance of all licensees,” he said.