A severe shortage of coal has compelled this once-power surplus state to start purchasing power from other sources
The Gujarat government has long boasted having 24X7 power supply across its state model Jyotigram Yojana, the same model that the central government and other states too have implemented.
Now, however, it seems those days are gone with the state being forced to take the Center's help to keep the tag of 'state with uninterrupted power supply' intact.
A severe shortage of coal has compelled this once-power surplus state to start purchasing power from other sources.
Owing to the shortage of coal and the resultant increase in cost of power generation, power companies in the state have now demanded an increase in the Fuel and Power Purchase Price Adjustment (FPPPA). It is likely that the Gujarat Energy Regulatory Commission (GERC) may allow an increase and consequently, power tariffs in Gujarat are expected to increase shortly.
Energy Minister Saurabh Patel is going to attend the meeting of energy ministers with the central government, scheduled to be held next week in New Delhi, and would make a representation for Gujarat and seek the support from the Union government to ensure constant power supply in the state.
Sources in the Gujarat government said that the state has been passing through a very critical phase in the energy sector.
There have been times when the state's stock of coal was enough only for one day.
The state-based power stations have also been managing with mixed and indigenous coal. In this situation, power demand has to be managed by purchasing energy from the national grid, which is much more expensive than that generated at Gujarat-based power stations.
Around 50 to 60 million units have to be purchased as the demand for power is at its highest during this season.
So, the energy minister would seek support from the Center for a constant supply of coal.
POWER CRISIS
- A severe shortage of coal has compelled this once-power surplus state to start purchasing power from other sources.
- Owing to the shortage of coal and the resultant increase in cost of power generation, power companies in the state have now demanded an increase in the Fuel and Power Purchase Price Adjustment (FPPPA).
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