TN Releases Power Sector White Paper, Rules Out Tariff Hike This Year
Recurrent power cuts have been a controversial issue plaguing the TVK government ever since they came into power earlier this year
In a significant relief to millions of consumers across the state, Tamil Nadu's Electricity Minister Nirmal Kumar on Thursday announced that electricity tariffs will remain unchanged for the rest of the year. The declaration comes as many had anticipated a possible revision amid rising power procurement costs.
The minister released a white paper stating that the electricity department currently has a debt of Rs. 2,47,130 crore. He also stated that employment opportunities were provided to 343 people over the past five years.
He also mentioned that the government is planning to procure 1.5 lakh transformers over the next four years.
Recurrent power cuts have been a controversial issue plaguing the TVK government ever since they came into power earlier this year. In response to criticism by opposition parties, the minister stated that a white paper explaining the condition of Tamil Nadu's electricity sector, which is under a heavy debt burden, would be released within two days.
The minister's assurance is expected to benefit domestic consumers, agricultural users, and small and medium enterprises that depend on stable power pricing to manage operational costs.
The minister also added that approvals for solar energy projects were granted with transparency in the state.
