Higher energy demand could be a sign of increase in economic activity, says energy secretary
Energy Secretary N. Srikanth on Wednesday said that power utilities in Andhra Pradesh have improved their performance in supplying quality and reliable power to all regions. “Because of this, the average electricity consumption in the state has exceeded the national average,” he said, adding that in August this year, AP’s electricity consumption grew by 20.5%, which is higher than the national average of 18.6%.
Speaking after paying tributes to eminent engineer and Bharat Ratna awardee Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya on the occasion of his 161st birth anniversary, Srikanth recalled that the ‘Father of Indian Engineering’ for his contribution towards harnessing water resources, and construction and consolidation of dams. Known for his contribution. across the country.
Emphasizing on the need to follow his principles for the sustainability of the power sector, he said that the increase in energy demand could be indicative of an increase in economic activity in the state as compared to the previous year. “It can be a good sign for development,” he said.
He said the average energy consumption in the state in the first fortnight of May was 15.37 per cent, while the national average had increased by 19 per cent. “However, in August, our consumption exceeded the national average,” he said.
effective cost
In the last two-and-a-half years, utilities have implemented cost-effective measures in power procurement, improving infrastructure by erecting power lines, transformers and substations, which have helped reduce power supply interruptions, he said.
Srikanth said the power purchase arrears and operating cost, which stood at ₹12,500 crore at the time of bifurcation of the state in 2014, reached ₹32,000 crore on April 1, 2019. Serious efforts were made to revive the troubled power sector. And in view of the severe financial crunch faced by DISCOMs, the state government came to their rescue by releasing ₹28,166 crore to power companies between 2019 and 2021. “The focus of the government has always been on consumer-centric policies,” he said.
Srikanth said that every effort is being made to strengthen the power sector and achieve operational and economic stability.
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