.png)
CM directs officials to intensify efforts to bring down power purchases cost, introduce reforms to benefit consumers
CM's stress on integrating renewable energy sources to build a robust and sustainable energy ecosystem
Amaravati: Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu directed officials to intensify efforts to reduce power purchase costs and implement reforms to ease financial burden on consumers while ensuring the financial stability of power utilities.
Addressing a review meeting of Energy Department held at Secretariat today, the Chief Minister emphasised on bringing down the power purchase cost to Rs 4 per unit. Officials informed him that, through ongoing reforms, the cost could be reduced by Rs 1.32 per unit, with a target of reaching Rs 4.10 per unit by 2028–29.
The Chief Minister stressed the need for a comprehensive plan to clear debts of power utilities without increasing tariffs on consumers. Highlighting efficiency improvements, officials stated that better management of power utilities has already resulted in savings of Rs 339 crore in 2025–26 financial year.
The Chief Minister called for the adoption of new technologies and innovations to enhance energy efficiency and reduce costs. He noted that Andhra Pradesh has historically been a pioneer in power sector reforms, including the early adoption of energy auditing.
Referring to global trends, the Chief Minister said the energy sector is rapidly shifting towards green and cost-effective power generation and Andhra Pradesh is well-positioned to leverage these changes. He pointed out that the state’s focus on renewable energy has helped attract major investments, including data centers by global companies like Google.
He directed officials to expand rooftop solar adoption and make central schemes like PM Surya Ghar Yojana more accessible to the public. He also asked for greater awareness among farmers about utilizing the PM Kusum Scheme for agricultural pump sets.
The Chief Minister emphasised on integrating renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, pumped storage projects and battery energy storage systems to build a robust and sustainable energy ecosystem. He noted that Andhra Pradesh is already among the leading states in solar power and should aim to secure the top position nationally.
The Chief Minister proposed establishment of an Energy University to promote research, innovation, and advanced technologies in the power sector. He also called for strengthening the Centre of Excellence for Energy Transition.
To encourage innovation, the CM suggested setting up a dedicated incubation fund to support startups in the energy sector, with power utilities providing financial assistance such as margin money.
He further stated that Andhra Pradesh’s power utilities should aim to grow into institutions capable of offering consultancy services to other states, given their advanced capabilities.
Reiterating the need for financial discipline, Naidu said rising debts of power utilities must be addressed through strategic planning without burdening consumers. He noted that the government has already avoided passing on true-up charges to consumers and achieved a tariff reduction of 13 paise per unit.
Minister for energy Gottipati Ravi Kumar and senior officials were present.
.jpeg)
Leave Comments