BuzzBytes Jammu, November 26:
In a pivotal move to ensure an uninterrupted power supply during the upcoming winter months, the Administrative Council, led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, has granted approval for the procurement of an extra 500 megawatts (MW) of firm power from the Ministry of Power.
The decision aims to address the base load power requirements of the Union Territory, particularly crucial during the winter season when power availability diminishes due to the prevalence of hydropower. The AC’s nod also includes the allocation of power through a new Power Purchase Agreement between J&K Power Corporation Limited (JKPCL) and NTPC, focusing on the operation of the Singrauli-III thermal power station.
Advisor Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Chief Secretary Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta, and Principal Secretary Dr. Mandeep Kumar Bhandari were present at the meeting, emphasizing the significance of securing additional power to bridge the gap between demand and availability during the winter months.
The Singrauli-III power station, a vital contributor during the winter season, will play a pivotal role in meeting the energy demand in J&K, which is steadily increasing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10%. The decision to sign a new Power Purchase Agreement is expected to mitigate energy shortages, ensuring a reliable power supply during the lean winter period.
