No Load shedding, efforts are being made to increase power generation: Energy Minister Dr Nitin Raut.
Appeal to consumers to be frugal in power consumption.
MUMBAI: Coal scarcity has reduced power generation in the state and consumers are meeting their demand by buying electricity from the open market at exorbitant rates. Nowhere in the state is load shedding being done and proper planning is being done to increase power generation, said Energy Minister Dr Nitin Raut. He was speaking at a press conference at the ministry on coal scarcity in the state and the consequent decline in power generation.
The state is facing a shortage of 3,000 MW compared to the demand. Energy Minister Dr Raut said that the state government is making every effort to fill this power deficit.
“I have been in regular touch with Union Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi and Union Energy Minister RK Singh for the last two months to ensure a regular supply of coal to the state’s thermal power projects. We will overcome this crisis soon,” he said.
“Against this backdrop, I would like to appeal to all consumers to cooperate with MSEDCL by saving electricity by minimizing the use of electrical appliances in their homes during the maximum period of 6 to 10 in the morning and evening considering the current power shortage situation,” he said. Raut did this to the public this time.
At around 7 pm on October 11, during the peak demand period, Mahanirmithi has generated 8,119 MW of power from thermal, wind and hydropower plants and has been instrumental in providing adequate power to the power consumers of the state even in times of coal shortage. MSEDCL has also met its target of 18,123 MW with the exception of Mumbai and 20,870 MW with Mumbai at around 7 pm, said Energy Minister Raut.