Express News Service
Hyderabad: Despite a steep hike in domestic power charges, officials of the power utility claimed on Saturday that almost 50 per cent of domestic consumers were spared from tariff hike.
According to officials, there is no change in the power tariff for low-tension (LT) domestic consumers who consume 50 units or less in a month. The tariff for them remains the same at Rs 1.45 per unit. "It will benefit around 97.4 lakh consumers who are almost 50 per cent of the total consumers under domestic category," an official claimed after the APERC released the tariff order.
LT agricultural consumers will get seven- hour free supply which will benefit 30.7 lakh consumers.
The Aggregate Revenue Requirement for all four Discoms is Rs 40,639 crore. The total energy requirement approved by the APERC is 89,845 million units for 2013-14. The total sales approved by the ERC for the year is 77,410 million units.
The average cost of service (CoS) approved by APERC for 2013-14 is Rs 5.25 per units against Rs 4.44 per unit in 2012-13. This implies an increase of 18 per cent (81 paise per unit). The Discoms will get a revenue of Rs 28,996 crore with the revised power tariff in the year.
The revenue increase in power tariff is Rs 6,173 crore, which is 21 per cent increase in total tariff compared to previous year.
To reduce the power cuts, an additional power availability of 2,430 million units in four peak months is expected from gas-based power plants with RLNG and another 8,841 million units from short-term sources during the peak months.
Average Hike per Unit
* Domestic consumers: Rs 0.58
* HT consumers: Rs 1.12
* LT commercial: Rs 1.13
* LT industrial: Rs 0.63
* HT industrial: Rs 0.93
Showing posts with label electricity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label electricity. Show all posts
Sunday, 31 March 2013
For APERC, a Separate Kitchen is Non-domestic
Express News Service
Hyderabad: Do you have a separate kitchen in your house? Then you will not come under domestic power category. If you have a separate kitchen in your house the kitchen will be treated a separate establishment in power billing.
The power used for kitchen will be treated as a non-domestic use and such power will attract higher tariff. The Andhra Pradesh Energy Regulatory Commission (APERC) gave a new definition for domestic power connection on Saturday in its tariff orders.
"This tariff (domestic poewr tariff) is applicable for supply of electricity for lights and fans and other domestic purposes to domestic premises.
Domestic establishment/premises is one which is used for dwelling/residential purpose. For domestic category, the households having a separate kitchen will be treated as a separate establishment," the APERC said in its orders.
The kitchen will be treated as a non-domestic category and attracts higher power tariff.
As per the order, the power consumed for kitchen will be charged Rs 5.40 for LT2(A) consumers up to 50 units. Those who consume more than 50 units will automatically comes under LT2(B). Under this category, the charges up to 50 units will Rs 6.63, 51-100 Rs 7.38, 101-300
Rs 8.13, 301-500 Rs 8.63 and above 500 units it will be Rs 9.13 per unit. Besides this a monthly fixed charges of Rs 50 and a monthly minimum charges of Rs 65 for single phase and Rs 200 for three phase will be collected.
ends
Hyderabad: Do you have a separate kitchen in your house? Then you will not come under domestic power category. If you have a separate kitchen in your house the kitchen will be treated a separate establishment in power billing.
The power used for kitchen will be treated as a non-domestic use and such power will attract higher tariff. The Andhra Pradesh Energy Regulatory Commission (APERC) gave a new definition for domestic power connection on Saturday in its tariff orders.
"This tariff (domestic poewr tariff) is applicable for supply of electricity for lights and fans and other domestic purposes to domestic premises.
Domestic establishment/premises is one which is used for dwelling/residential purpose. For domestic category, the households having a separate kitchen will be treated as a separate establishment," the APERC said in its orders.
The kitchen will be treated as a non-domestic category and attracts higher power tariff.
As per the order, the power consumed for kitchen will be charged Rs 5.40 for LT2(A) consumers up to 50 units. Those who consume more than 50 units will automatically comes under LT2(B). Under this category, the charges up to 50 units will Rs 6.63, 51-100 Rs 7.38, 101-300
Rs 8.13, 301-500 Rs 8.63 and above 500 units it will be Rs 9.13 per unit. Besides this a monthly fixed charges of Rs 50 and a monthly minimum charges of Rs 65 for single phase and Rs 200 for three phase will be collected.
ends
APERC’s power shocker spares only farmers
By
The worst fears of power consumers have come true. The middle class and the rich class have received a rude shock in the form of new power tariff, which will come into force from April 1. Only the poorest of the poor are spared from the power tariff hike, that too if they consume only 50 units or below per month. Not only domestic consumers but also the industries, poultry, prawn farmers and cottage industries too are burden with heavy power tariff. No category of consumers, except farmers, are spared in the revised tariff.
The AP Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) issued orders for the new power tariff for 2013-14. However, the ERC rejected the Discoms' proposal for non-telescopic billing. The ERC wanted to continue the existing telescopic billing for domestic consumers. But, this is only a minor relief for domestic consumers. There is a considerable hike in tariffs and slabs.
The Discoms' proposed a whopping Rs 12,700 crore additional burden on the consumers, the ERC approved only Rs 6,500 crore hike. As the telescopic billing system is continued, the burden is lessened on consumers. The ERC also refused the proposal of the Discoms for spending more on gas-based power plants with a hope that there will be sufficient rains this year. In such a case, there will be no need to spend more money gas-based power generation. This has reduced Rs 6,200 crore burden on consumers.
The domestic consumers who are charged in two categories LT1(A) and LT1(B) are reclassified. The six slabs under LT1(A), whose connected load was 500 MW are reduced to only one slab irrespective of their connected load. If the LT1(A) consumers, who are mostly the poor, consume more than 50 units in a month, will automatically converted into LT1(B) category to pay more power bills.
Under LT1(B) domestic category the present six slabs are now increased to nine slabs. The minimum charge under this category is increased from the present Rs 1.45 per unit to Rs 2.60 per unit. If the domestic consumers consume more than 500 units in a month the rate for the slab is Rs 8.38 per unit.
HIDDEN CHARGES: Besides, the steep hike in power tariff there will be more hidden charges in the monthly bills. The minimum energy charge for single phase consumers with connected load of 500 watts will be Rs 25 per month. If the contracted load in more than 500 watts, the minimum charge per month is Rs 50 for single phase consumers and Rs 150 per month for three-phase consumers. It means that if the consumer did not use any power in a month, still he/she should pay the minimum charges.
CUSTOMER CHARGES: Besides, minimum charges, the domestic consumers have to pay customer charges every month. If the consumption is less than 50 units the consumer charge will be Rs 25, if the consumption is between 51-100 units it will be Rs 30, for 101-200 units it will be Rs 35, for 201-300 units it will be Rs 40 and if the consumption is more than 300 units in a month the customer charge will be Rs 45 per month.
PENALTY: If the payment of power bill is delayed penalty will be levied. If consumer made payment after due date, the consumers are liable to pay Delayed Payment Surcharge (DPS) per month on the bill amount. For LT1(A) consumers the DPS is Rs 10 per month and for LT1(B) consumers it will be Rs 25.
RECONNECTION CHARGES: If the consumers failed to pay bill in time and the power is disconnected, the reconnection charges will be Rs 25 for LT1(A) and for all other domestic and LT consumers will have to pay Rs 75 for overhead services and Rs 200 for UG services.
Graphic
Domestic LT1(A): There are six slabs. From April 1 there is only one slab. If consumers under this category consume more than 50 units will be converted to LT1(B) category.
LT 1(A) new tariff old tariff
Up to 50 units Rs 1.45 Rs 1.45 (no change)
---
LT1(B): There are currently six slabs. Which are increased to nine slabs now.
consumption new tariff old tariff
First 50 units Rs 2.60 0-50 units Rs 1.45
51-100 Rs 3.25 51-100 Rs 2.60
101-150 Rs 4.88 101-200 Rs 3.60
151-200 Rs 5.63 201-300 Rs 5.75
201-250 Rs 6.38 301-500 Rs 6.75
251-300 Rs 6.88 More than 500 units Rs 7.25
301-400 Rs 7.38
401-500 Rs 7.88
above 500 Rs 8.38
-------------------------------------------
The LT-2 (A) non-domestic commercial three slabs are reduced to one
If they consume more than 50 units, they will be converted into LT-2(B) consumers
LT-2(A) new tariff
up to 50 units Rs 5.40
LT-2(B) Under this category the two slabs are increased to six slabs
new old
Up to 50 units - Rs 6.63 0-100 units Rs 6.00
51-100 Rs 7.38 more than 100 units Rs 7.00
101-300 Rs 8.13
301-500 Rs 8.63
Above 500 Rs 9.13
-------------------------
Advertisement hoarding new old
Rs 11.03 Rs 9.00
------
Industries 6.08 5.00
Seasonal industries(off seasonal charges) 6.75 5.67
------
Pisciculture, Prawn culture 4.63 2.12
Poultry 5.63 5.00
Railway traction 6.36 5.43
Cottage industries, dhobi ghats and others 3.75 2.67
ends
The AP Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) issued orders for the new power tariff for 2013-14. However, the ERC rejected the Discoms' proposal for non-telescopic billing. The ERC wanted to continue the existing telescopic billing for domestic consumers. But, this is only a minor relief for domestic consumers. There is a considerable hike in tariffs and slabs.
The Discoms' proposed a whopping Rs 12,700 crore additional burden on the consumers, the ERC approved only Rs 6,500 crore hike. As the telescopic billing system is continued, the burden is lessened on consumers. The ERC also refused the proposal of the Discoms for spending more on gas-based power plants with a hope that there will be sufficient rains this year. In such a case, there will be no need to spend more money gas-based power generation. This has reduced Rs 6,200 crore burden on consumers.
The domestic consumers who are charged in two categories LT1(A) and LT1(B) are reclassified. The six slabs under LT1(A), whose connected load was 500 MW are reduced to only one slab irrespective of their connected load. If the LT1(A) consumers, who are mostly the poor, consume more than 50 units in a month, will automatically converted into LT1(B) category to pay more power bills.
Under LT1(B) domestic category the present six slabs are now increased to nine slabs. The minimum charge under this category is increased from the present Rs 1.45 per unit to Rs 2.60 per unit. If the domestic consumers consume more than 500 units in a month the rate for the slab is Rs 8.38 per unit.
HIDDEN CHARGES: Besides, the steep hike in power tariff there will be more hidden charges in the monthly bills. The minimum energy charge for single phase consumers with connected load of 500 watts will be Rs 25 per month. If the contracted load in more than 500 watts, the minimum charge per month is Rs 50 for single phase consumers and Rs 150 per month for three-phase consumers. It means that if the consumer did not use any power in a month, still he/she should pay the minimum charges.
CUSTOMER CHARGES: Besides, minimum charges, the domestic consumers have to pay customer charges every month. If the consumption is less than 50 units the consumer charge will be Rs 25, if the consumption is between 51-100 units it will be Rs 30, for 101-200 units it will be Rs 35, for 201-300 units it will be Rs 40 and if the consumption is more than 300 units in a month the customer charge will be Rs 45 per month.
PENALTY: If the payment of power bill is delayed penalty will be levied. If consumer made payment after due date, the consumers are liable to pay Delayed Payment Surcharge (DPS) per month on the bill amount. For LT1(A) consumers the DPS is Rs 10 per month and for LT1(B) consumers it will be Rs 25.
RECONNECTION CHARGES: If the consumers failed to pay bill in time and the power is disconnected, the reconnection charges will be Rs 25 for LT1(A) and for all other domestic and LT consumers will have to pay Rs 75 for overhead services and Rs 200 for UG services.
Graphic
Domestic LT1(A): There are six slabs. From April 1 there is only one slab. If consumers under this category consume more than 50 units will be converted to LT1(B) category.
LT 1(A) new tariff old tariff
Up to 50 units Rs 1.45 Rs 1.45 (no change)
---
LT1(B): There are currently six slabs. Which are increased to nine slabs now.
consumption new tariff old tariff
First 50 units Rs 2.60 0-50 units Rs 1.45
51-100 Rs 3.25 51-100 Rs 2.60
101-150 Rs 4.88 101-200 Rs 3.60
151-200 Rs 5.63 201-300 Rs 5.75
201-250 Rs 6.38 301-500 Rs 6.75
251-300 Rs 6.88 More than 500 units Rs 7.25
301-400 Rs 7.38
401-500 Rs 7.88
above 500 Rs 8.38
-------------------------------------------
The LT-2 (A) non-domestic commercial three slabs are reduced to one
If they consume more than 50 units, they will be converted into LT-2(B) consumers
LT-2(A) new tariff
up to 50 units Rs 5.40
LT-2(B) Under this category the two slabs are increased to six slabs
new old
Up to 50 units - Rs 6.63 0-100 units Rs 6.00
51-100 Rs 7.38 more than 100 units Rs 7.00
101-300 Rs 8.13
301-500 Rs 8.63
Above 500 Rs 9.13
-------------------------
Advertisement hoarding new old
Rs 11.03 Rs 9.00
------
Industries 6.08 5.00
Seasonal industries(off seasonal charges) 6.75 5.67
------
Pisciculture, Prawn culture 4.63 2.12
Poultry 5.63 5.00
Railway traction 6.36 5.43
Cottage industries, dhobi ghats and others 3.75 2.67
ends
Wednesday, 27 March 2013
Friday, 22 March 2013
Friday, 11 January 2013
Power Tariff Proposals Have Little Whammies Too
Hyderabad: A hefty hike in tariff and a non-telescopic rate card are not the only whammies contained in the power discoms' tariff proposals, which are very likely to be given the green signal with effect from April 1. Several other hard-hitting decisions have been included in the Aggregate Revenue Requirement (ARR) submitted by the discoms to the AP Electricity Regulation Commission (APERC). The commission placed the ARR in the public domain on Wednesday.
For instance, the penalty for late payment of bills will be hiked from Rs 25 to 45 from April onwards.
Similarly, the cost to serve (CoS) is likely to be increased considerably. In the tariff order for 2012-13, the average CoS approved by APERC was Rs 4.44 per unit. For the ensuing year, it has been estimated to spurt to Rs 5.61 per unit. The discoms' ARR states that "there has been a significant increase in the average CoS during the year and the licensee expects the trend to continue in the ensuing year. The licensee estimates the state-level CoS for 2013-14 to be at Rs 5.61 per unit."
In increasing the tariff burden on the consumer, the discoms cited the usual suspects: power purchase costs and network costs. The ARR says, "he increase in CoS is due to an increase in both the power purchase cost and the network cost. The power purchase cost approved by APERC for 2012-13 was 3.10 per unit, whereas the licensee estimates the power purchase cost for 2013-14 will be Rs 4.07 per unit."
Interestingly, the discoms kept a door open to appease farmers in the runup to the next general election. In reference to the promise of nine hourse of free power supply to farmers, the discoms said, "The licensee would like to continue with the existing seven hours of power supply to agricultural consumers in 2013-14. The deficit situation is expected to continue in 2013-14 as per current estimates. However, the licensee may submit a supplementary filing to increase the number of hours of supply to agricultural consumers to nine hours during the course of 2013-14 as and when the power situation in the state improves."
The ARR packages the decision to introduce a non-telescopic system of billing as a device to encourage consumers to save power. The discoms said that "a non-telescopic tariff structure will encourage the consumer to consume less to avoid higher tariffs. In addition, the non-telescopic tariff structure would encourage consumers to adopt energy conservation."
GRAPHIC: Customer Charges
The discoms propose to hike the customer charges too
Slab (units) Customer Charge (Rs per month)
0-50 25
0-100 30
0-200 35
0-300 40
0-500 45
0- >500 45
ends
For instance, the penalty for late payment of bills will be hiked from Rs 25 to 45 from April onwards.
Similarly, the cost to serve (CoS) is likely to be increased considerably. In the tariff order for 2012-13, the average CoS approved by APERC was Rs 4.44 per unit. For the ensuing year, it has been estimated to spurt to Rs 5.61 per unit. The discoms' ARR states that "there has been a significant increase in the average CoS during the year and the licensee expects the trend to continue in the ensuing year. The licensee estimates the state-level CoS for 2013-14 to be at Rs 5.61 per unit."
In increasing the tariff burden on the consumer, the discoms cited the usual suspects: power purchase costs and network costs. The ARR says, "he increase in CoS is due to an increase in both the power purchase cost and the network cost. The power purchase cost approved by APERC for 2012-13 was 3.10 per unit, whereas the licensee estimates the power purchase cost for 2013-14 will be Rs 4.07 per unit."
Interestingly, the discoms kept a door open to appease farmers in the runup to the next general election. In reference to the promise of nine hourse of free power supply to farmers, the discoms said, "The licensee would like to continue with the existing seven hours of power supply to agricultural consumers in 2013-14. The deficit situation is expected to continue in 2013-14 as per current estimates. However, the licensee may submit a supplementary filing to increase the number of hours of supply to agricultural consumers to nine hours during the course of 2013-14 as and when the power situation in the state improves."
The ARR packages the decision to introduce a non-telescopic system of billing as a device to encourage consumers to save power. The discoms said that "a non-telescopic tariff structure will encourage the consumer to consume less to avoid higher tariffs. In addition, the non-telescopic tariff structure would encourage consumers to adopt energy conservation."
GRAPHIC: Customer Charges
The discoms propose to hike the customer charges too
Slab (units) Customer Charge (Rs per month)
0-50 25
0-100 30
0-200 35
0-300 40
0-500 45
0- >500 45
ends
New Billing Method Aims to Curb Domestic Power Consumption
Non-telescopic billing will force consumer to keep an eye on the meter
Hyderabad: The power distribution companies (Discoms) in the state have decided to revert to the earlier system of non-telescopic billing system from April. This will be nothing but an indirect way of compelling the domestic power consumer to save power. In the non-telescopic billing method there will be no slabs. Thus, the consumer will pay more even if he uses one unit of power beyond a particular category.
For example, under the proposed tariff for 2013-14, the Discoms have prepared six categories of billing. The cost of a unit up to 500 units will be Rs 6.50. If a consumer uses just one unit extra then the billing will be made for 501 units. Then, the rate for consumption of more than 500 units will be Rs 7.00. In that way the consumer will end up paying Rs 3,507. If the same consumer used only 500 units he would have paid only Rs 3,250 in that month. It means that if a consumer is not alert and the consumption crosses the 500-unit mark, he has to pay Rs 257 more for usage of one additional unit of power. This will be applicable to all the consumers in all categories under the non-telescopic method.
The power utility has failed in the last six years to argument the generation capacity. On the other hand, the power demand is increasing every day, forcing it to start State-Level Energy Conservation Mission to create awareness in consumers to save power. The power utility's argument is that saving energy means generating power. Every 100 units saved is equivalent to 120 units produced, sources in the energy department said.
Though the Energy Conservation Mission is taking drastic steps to conserve energy and has even adopted a six-point formula recently, the demand for domestic power is not coming down. Though power consumption has been brought down to some extent in government offices, awareness campaigns have shown little impact on domestic consumers.
The Discoms have, therefore, decided to give shock treatment to domestic consumers by reintroducing the non-telescopic billing method. Now, it is the responsibility of every domestic consumer to watch his meter daily to know if he has crossed a particular category or not to avoid paying a hefty power bill. "After getting one or two months of power bills after April, consumers will understand the problem inherent in the non-telescopic billing method. So, they will be judicious in using power," said the sources.
The power utility has recently wanted 25 million consumers to save energy by using solar water heaters and replacing incandescent lamps with CFL bulbs. The target is to save 10,000-15,000 million units. The hidden part of non-telescopic billing is to compel the consumers to save power.
But, in non-telescopic billing there is a danger of innocent power consumers paying more. If the Discom worker delays noting the meter reading and producing bill by even two or three days, the category of consumer will automatically change. The delay in meter reading will again burden the consumers at no fault of theirs. This may lead to consumer-employee clashes.
Disadvantages
* Even if a single unit more is consumed beyond a category, the rate will be higher.
* If meter-reading or bill-serving is delayed even by a couple of days, the category for billing will change. This may lead to arguments and clashes between consumers and employees.
ends
Sunday, 6 January 2013
Discoms set to give power shock
Hyderabad: The power distribution companies (discoms) have proposed to deliver a sledgehammer blow on consumers by imposing a burden of around `13,000 crore on various categories of consumers from April 1, 2013.
The discoms have proposed to introduce a non-telescopic billing system, which is an indirect way of raising the power bills. The present billing system is the telescoping billing system under which consumers pay the tariff as per the slab.
For example, if a consumer uses 150 units of power, they will pay `1.45 per unit for the first 50 units, `2.60 for next 50 units and `3.60 for next 50 units. But under the proposed system, there will not be such slabs and a consumer who uses 150 units, then he/she will have to pay `3.60 for the entire 150 units. Thus a consumer who uses 100 units currently and pays `202.5 as bill, will have to shell out `260 in the next financial year for the same 100 units.
The tariff hike proposal submitted by the discoms to the AP Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) on Saturday appears on the face of it to have spared the poor and the lower middle class. But the introduction of the non-telescopic billing methos would ensure that they too would have to spend more.
In the Aggregate Revenue Requirement (ARRs) for the year 2013-14 that was submitted to the APERC, the discom officials said that the cost to service per unit is around `5.25 per unit. The discoms are expecting a revenue deficit of `18,000 crore for the next fiscal. However, with the government subsidy to the tune of `5,000 crore, the discoms are left with a `13,000 crore deficit, which they want to impose on the consumers.
The officials of AP Transco and other discoms were in touch with chief minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy during the last three days and he is reported to have given them a go-ahead for all proposals. The state government, however, does not intend to change its policy of supplying free power to agriculture consumers.
GRAPHIC
Proposed tariff under non-telescopic billing system
Category: LT Domestic
0-50 units: `1.45
0-100 units: `2.60
0-200 units: `5.65
0-300 units: `6.15
0-500 units: `6.50
Above 500 units: `7.00
Category: LT Commercial
0-50 units: `5.40
51-100 units: `7.35
Above 100 units: `8.35
Category: Industry
All units: 5.37
Existing tariffs under telescopic method
Category: LT Domestic
0-50 units: `1.45
51-100 units: `2.60
101-200 units: `3.60
201-300 units: `5.75
301-500 units: `7.25
Category: Commercial
0-50 units: `3.85
51-100 units: `6.00
Above 100 units: `7.00
Category: Industry General
All units: `4.80
The discoms have proposed to introduce a non-telescopic billing system, which is an indirect way of raising the power bills. The present billing system is the telescoping billing system under which consumers pay the tariff as per the slab.
For example, if a consumer uses 150 units of power, they will pay `1.45 per unit for the first 50 units, `2.60 for next 50 units and `3.60 for next 50 units. But under the proposed system, there will not be such slabs and a consumer who uses 150 units, then he/she will have to pay `3.60 for the entire 150 units. Thus a consumer who uses 100 units currently and pays `202.5 as bill, will have to shell out `260 in the next financial year for the same 100 units.
The tariff hike proposal submitted by the discoms to the AP Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) on Saturday appears on the face of it to have spared the poor and the lower middle class. But the introduction of the non-telescopic billing methos would ensure that they too would have to spend more.
In the Aggregate Revenue Requirement (ARRs) for the year 2013-14 that was submitted to the APERC, the discom officials said that the cost to service per unit is around `5.25 per unit. The discoms are expecting a revenue deficit of `18,000 crore for the next fiscal. However, with the government subsidy to the tune of `5,000 crore, the discoms are left with a `13,000 crore deficit, which they want to impose on the consumers.
The officials of AP Transco and other discoms were in touch with chief minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy during the last three days and he is reported to have given them a go-ahead for all proposals. The state government, however, does not intend to change its policy of supplying free power to agriculture consumers.
GRAPHIC
Proposed tariff under non-telescopic billing system
Category: LT Domestic
0-50 units: `1.45
0-100 units: `2.60
0-200 units: `5.65
0-300 units: `6.15
0-500 units: `6.50
Above 500 units: `7.00
Category: LT Commercial
0-50 units: `5.40
51-100 units: `7.35
Above 100 units: `8.35
Category: Industry
All units: 5.37
Existing tariffs under telescopic method
Category: LT Domestic
0-50 units: `1.45
51-100 units: `2.60
101-200 units: `3.60
201-300 units: `5.75
301-500 units: `7.25
Category: Commercial
0-50 units: `3.85
51-100 units: `6.00
Above 100 units: `7.00
Category: Industry General
All units: `4.80
Thursday, 27 December 2012
Industries ready to pay more to get power
Hyderabad: The industrial sector is all set to get a 'pay-more-get-power' offer, with the government mooting an 'expensive power' policy. Distribution companies (discoms) have proposed to supply the needed power to industries, though at a higher price, and the proposal has already been submitted to the AP Electricity Regulation Commission (APERC). The APERC sought the opinion of the industry on the new policy by December 31.
Under the new policy, the discoms will supply power generated using regasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG) to industries on a no-profit basis.
According to sources in the Andhra Pradesh Central Power Distribution Company Limited (APCPDCL), there is shortage of gas from the D-36 site in the state. The gas-based power plants are not operating at their installed capacity due to shortage of RLNG.
Under the new scheme, imported RLNG will be supplied to gas-based plants. The discoms will procure the power from the gas-based Independent Power Producers (IPPs) like GVK Extension ( 220 MW), Gautami (464 MW), Vemagiri (370 MW) and Konaseema ( 444.08 MW).
The power generated with imported gas cost will be expensive. "The cost per unit will be above `9. It will change with RLNG rate fluctuations in the market," a top official of CPDCL told Express.
The CPDCL has submitted the new proposal to APERC and if the APERC approves it, then the discoms will go head with operations accordingly.
Under the policy, power will be supplied to willing consumers, over and above the permitted demand limit (PDL) and the permitted consumption limit (PCL). It means the industries that opt for the 'expensive power' will not face any power restrictions.
Purchase of power by discoms under the plan and its supply will be outside the scope of the tariff order, the sources said.
"The APERC examined the proposal in detail. Considering the acute power shortage in the state and to mitigate the problem to the extent possible, a draft Expensive Power Supply Scheme (EPSS) has been prepared," the APERC said. All interested consumers and stakeholders may offer their comments and suggestions on the new policy latest by December 31 to APERC.
THE NEW SCHEME
* Expensive power will be supplied to consumers who opt for it by entering into an agreement with the discom concerned.
* Discoms procure RLNG-based power from gas-based IPPs in the state and supply it to consumers on a no profit basis.
* If power procurement is less than the requirement, available power will be distributed proportionately amongst all the participating consumers on a pro-rata basis.
* If a consumer fails to utilise the power in a month, it will not be carried forward.
Under the new policy, the discoms will supply power generated using regasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG) to industries on a no-profit basis.
According to sources in the Andhra Pradesh Central Power Distribution Company Limited (APCPDCL), there is shortage of gas from the D-36 site in the state. The gas-based power plants are not operating at their installed capacity due to shortage of RLNG.
Under the new scheme, imported RLNG will be supplied to gas-based plants. The discoms will procure the power from the gas-based Independent Power Producers (IPPs) like GVK Extension ( 220 MW), Gautami (464 MW), Vemagiri (370 MW) and Konaseema ( 444.08 MW).
The power generated with imported gas cost will be expensive. "The cost per unit will be above `9. It will change with RLNG rate fluctuations in the market," a top official of CPDCL told Express.
The CPDCL has submitted the new proposal to APERC and if the APERC approves it, then the discoms will go head with operations accordingly.
Under the policy, power will be supplied to willing consumers, over and above the permitted demand limit (PDL) and the permitted consumption limit (PCL). It means the industries that opt for the 'expensive power' will not face any power restrictions.
Purchase of power by discoms under the plan and its supply will be outside the scope of the tariff order, the sources said.
"The APERC examined the proposal in detail. Considering the acute power shortage in the state and to mitigate the problem to the extent possible, a draft Expensive Power Supply Scheme (EPSS) has been prepared," the APERC said. All interested consumers and stakeholders may offer their comments and suggestions on the new policy latest by December 31 to APERC.
THE NEW SCHEME
* Expensive power will be supplied to consumers who opt for it by entering into an agreement with the discom concerned.
* Discoms procure RLNG-based power from gas-based IPPs in the state and supply it to consumers on a no profit basis.
* If power procurement is less than the requirement, available power will be distributed proportionately amongst all the participating consumers on a pro-rata basis.
* If a consumer fails to utilise the power in a month, it will not be carried forward.
Friday, 21 December 2012
Sunday, 16 December 2012
Andhra Pradesh gets power shock
Electricity charges in the state have been hiked as the AP
Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC), after almost 12 years, gave
its nod for a hefty rise in power tariff, both domestic and industrial.
The new power tariff will be effective from April 1.
However, BPL consumers were not burdened and they would even save Rs 10 every month, provided they consume 100 units or less. Also, there is no change in power tariff for agricultural consumers.
APERC secretary MD Manohar Raju released the new tariff details to the media here on Friday.
The hike was a deviation from Congress party’s election promise that electricity charges will not be increased till 2014. The late YS Rajasekhara Reddy opposed the power tariff hike in 2000 by the then TDP government. The Congress promised no hike in power tariff when it regained power the second time in 2009.
Now, the additional burden on consumers would be around Rs 4,441 crore per year. The APERC created another category, LT 1 (A), for domestic consumers with contracted load of below 500 watts. This is aimed at helping BPL consumers who use less power.
Domestic consumers having a contracted load of 500 watts and use only 100 units per month would pay Rs 10 less under the new tariff. Tariff for the first 50 units remained unchanged at Rs 1.45 per unit.
The tariff for 51 to 100 units, which was Rs 2.80 earlier, was reduced to Rs 2.60 now under the newly created LT 1(A) category.
Thus, domestic consumers would save Rs 10 every month if they consume only 100 units. The tariff for domestic consumers was hiked up to Rs 1.50 per unit.
The minimum tariff under LT 1(A) would be Rs 1.45 for the first 50 units.
As the consumers use more power,they have to pay more.
For a usage of 500 units or more, the unit rate would be Rs 7.25 under the telescopic system. Though, the discoms proposed a total hike of Rs 4,941 crore, the APERC finally agreed to increase charges to the tune of Rs 4,441 crore.
The state government made a commitment to provide Rs 5,358.67 crore subsidy to discoms to overcome revenue deficit.
However, BPL consumers were not burdened and they would even save Rs 10 every month, provided they consume 100 units or less. Also, there is no change in power tariff for agricultural consumers.
APERC secretary MD Manohar Raju released the new tariff details to the media here on Friday.
The hike was a deviation from Congress party’s election promise that electricity charges will not be increased till 2014. The late YS Rajasekhara Reddy opposed the power tariff hike in 2000 by the then TDP government. The Congress promised no hike in power tariff when it regained power the second time in 2009.
Now, the additional burden on consumers would be around Rs 4,441 crore per year. The APERC created another category, LT 1 (A), for domestic consumers with contracted load of below 500 watts. This is aimed at helping BPL consumers who use less power.
Domestic consumers having a contracted load of 500 watts and use only 100 units per month would pay Rs 10 less under the new tariff. Tariff for the first 50 units remained unchanged at Rs 1.45 per unit.
The tariff for 51 to 100 units, which was Rs 2.80 earlier, was reduced to Rs 2.60 now under the newly created LT 1(A) category.
Thus, domestic consumers would save Rs 10 every month if they consume only 100 units. The tariff for domestic consumers was hiked up to Rs 1.50 per unit.
The minimum tariff under LT 1(A) would be Rs 1.45 for the first 50 units.
As the consumers use more power,they have to pay more.
For a usage of 500 units or more, the unit rate would be Rs 7.25 under the telescopic system. Though, the discoms proposed a total hike of Rs 4,941 crore, the APERC finally agreed to increase charges to the tune of Rs 4,441 crore.
The state government made a commitment to provide Rs 5,358.67 crore subsidy to discoms to overcome revenue deficit.
Saturday, 3 November 2012
Power shortage: 18-day work, 12-day break option for industry
Express News Service
Hyderabad, November 2:
Compounding the woes of the industry, the AP Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) issued fresh power restrictions. One of the options given, while imposing the power restrictions, is that if the industries can work 18 days continuously and take 12 holidays in a months.
It means that industries should work for 18 days continuously in a month and declare holiday for employees for next 12 days.
It may be recalled that the APERC issued orders restricting the use of power on September 14, 2012. As the power situation deteriorated further the APERC revised the restrictions. New power restrictions will come into force from the midnight of November 7,2012 and will be operative till March, 31, 2013. The order issued in September shall stand repealed from November 7.
The Discoms informed the APERC that about 202 million units per day as against a demand of 276 million units per day. There is a shortfall of 74 mu per day.
Restrictions are as follows: The off-peak period means 00.00 hrs to 18.00 hrs and 22.00 hrs to 24.00 hrs. Peak period means 18.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs.
HT-1 (B) Ferro Alloy Industry: Option 1: Power supply throughout the month with 60 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 30 per cent contracted demand during peak hours.
Option 2: 18 days power supply at a stretch and power holiday of 12 days. During 18 days of power supply, 100 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 30 per cent contracted demand during peak hours is permitted. During power holiday period of 12 days, 10 per cent of contracted demand is permitted for maintenance. Ferro Alloy industry can opt any one of the two.
HT-1 continuous process industries: To avail supply under this category, the consumers have to take prior approval from the respective CMD of the Discom duly furnishing the details of their manufacturing process and end product.
Consumers who fall under this category this category will also give their option in writing either for option 1 or option 2 with a copy to the CMD, Discom. Option 1: Power supply throughout the month with 60 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 20 per cent contracted demand during peak hours.
Option 2: 18 days power supply at a stretch and power holiday and power holiday of 12 days. During 18 days power supply, 100 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 20 per cent contracted demand during peak hours is permitted. During power holiday of 12 days, 10 per cent of contracted is permitted for maintenance.
HT-1 Other industries: Consumers under this category shall give their option in writing either for option 1, option 2 or option 3.
Option: Power supply throughout the month with 60 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 10 per cent contracted demand during peak hours.
Option 2: 18 days power supply at a stretch and power holiday for 12 days. During 18 days power supply, 100 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 10 per cent contracted demand during peak hours. During power holiday period of 12 days, 10 per cent of contracted is permitted for maintenance.
Option 3: Staggered power supply for 18 days, like four days power supply in a week with 100 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 10 per cent contracted demand during peak hours. During power holiday period of 12 days, 10 per cent of contracted demand is permitted for maintenance.
HT-3 Permitted Demand off peak is 50 per cent of the contracted demand and 40 per cent during peak hours.
LT-3B: 60 percent of the demand during off peak hours and 10 per cent during peak hours.
LT-3A: 100 per cent contracted load permitted during off peak hours and only lighting during off peak hours.
LT-2C: Permitted consumer limited ninety units per month per KW of contracted load.
Control measures: The APERC while imposing fresh restrictions, issued serious warning to consumers. If any consumer exceeds the permitted demand limited by a quantum exceeding five per cent of demand, the power connection will be disconnected immediately. For the first violation the disconnection is 48 hours, for the second violation 7 days disconnection, for third violation 15 days disconnection and one month disconnection if violation is fourth time. This is besides penal charges.
ends
Hyderabad, November 2:
Compounding the woes of the industry, the AP Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) issued fresh power restrictions. One of the options given, while imposing the power restrictions, is that if the industries can work 18 days continuously and take 12 holidays in a months.
It means that industries should work for 18 days continuously in a month and declare holiday for employees for next 12 days.
It may be recalled that the APERC issued orders restricting the use of power on September 14, 2012. As the power situation deteriorated further the APERC revised the restrictions. New power restrictions will come into force from the midnight of November 7,2012 and will be operative till March, 31, 2013. The order issued in September shall stand repealed from November 7.
The Discoms informed the APERC that about 202 million units per day as against a demand of 276 million units per day. There is a shortfall of 74 mu per day.
Restrictions are as follows: The off-peak period means 00.00 hrs to 18.00 hrs and 22.00 hrs to 24.00 hrs. Peak period means 18.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs.
HT-1 (B) Ferro Alloy Industry: Option 1: Power supply throughout the month with 60 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 30 per cent contracted demand during peak hours.
Option 2: 18 days power supply at a stretch and power holiday of 12 days. During 18 days of power supply, 100 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 30 per cent contracted demand during peak hours is permitted. During power holiday period of 12 days, 10 per cent of contracted demand is permitted for maintenance. Ferro Alloy industry can opt any one of the two.
HT-1 continuous process industries: To avail supply under this category, the consumers have to take prior approval from the respective CMD of the Discom duly furnishing the details of their manufacturing process and end product.
Consumers who fall under this category this category will also give their option in writing either for option 1 or option 2 with a copy to the CMD, Discom. Option 1: Power supply throughout the month with 60 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 20 per cent contracted demand during peak hours.
Option 2: 18 days power supply at a stretch and power holiday and power holiday of 12 days. During 18 days power supply, 100 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 20 per cent contracted demand during peak hours is permitted. During power holiday of 12 days, 10 per cent of contracted is permitted for maintenance.
HT-1 Other industries: Consumers under this category shall give their option in writing either for option 1, option 2 or option 3.
Option: Power supply throughout the month with 60 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 10 per cent contracted demand during peak hours.
Option 2: 18 days power supply at a stretch and power holiday for 12 days. During 18 days power supply, 100 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 10 per cent contracted demand during peak hours. During power holiday period of 12 days, 10 per cent of contracted is permitted for maintenance.
Option 3: Staggered power supply for 18 days, like four days power supply in a week with 100 per cent contracted demand during off peak hours and 10 per cent contracted demand during peak hours. During power holiday period of 12 days, 10 per cent of contracted demand is permitted for maintenance.
HT-3 Permitted Demand off peak is 50 per cent of the contracted demand and 40 per cent during peak hours.
LT-3B: 60 percent of the demand during off peak hours and 10 per cent during peak hours.
LT-3A: 100 per cent contracted load permitted during off peak hours and only lighting during off peak hours.
LT-2C: Permitted consumer limited ninety units per month per KW of contracted load.
Control measures: The APERC while imposing fresh restrictions, issued serious warning to consumers. If any consumer exceeds the permitted demand limited by a quantum exceeding five per cent of demand, the power connection will be disconnected immediately. For the first violation the disconnection is 48 hours, for the second violation 7 days disconnection, for third violation 15 days disconnection and one month disconnection if violation is fourth time. This is besides penal charges.
ends
Sunday, 9 September 2012
Power Cuts Likely to Continue till May
published on 9-9-2012
Intro: APERC allows power discome to impose current level of power cuts till March but discoms say deficit will continue till May
Express News Service
Hyderabad: Power cuts in the state are all set to continue till May, 2013 if one goes by what the distribution companies told the Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC).
On Saturday, the APERC issued orders permitting power cuts, with same duration as is being imposed now, till March 2013. The Andhra Pradesh Central Power Distribution Company Limited (APCPDCL), on behalf of all the four discoms in the state, had submitted a representation to APERC on August 29 to impose restriction on power supply to HT, LT and other consumers. In its request, it also said that the power deficit will continue till May next year.
Though, the APERC said that the power supply restrictions would be reviewed from time to time based on the demand and supply position, if one goes by the statement of the discoms, a relief before May is unlikely.
As of now, the power cuts are for three hours in cities and five hours in towns. Transco sources said that to increase the duration of the cuts, they would have to seek the permission of APERC again..
The APERC has also fixed penal charges for overdrawal of power by consumers. "In view of the shortage scenario and in order to maintain grid discipline and equitable distribution of available power among different consumers, penal charges are approved," the APERC said in its order.
Accordingly, charges for demand in excess of the permitted demand limit (PDL) will be three times that of the normal tariff. Energy charges for anything over the permitted consumption limit (PCL) during off-peak period shall also be thrice the normal tariff. Charges on anything more than PCL during peak period will be five times the normal tariff. The discoms have been permitted to levy these penal charges based on the MRI readings.
The APERC has also imposed some restrictions on usage while directing the discoms not to levy cross subsidy surcharge and additional surcharge till these restrictions are removed. The discoms have been asked not to allow drawal of power by welding sets during evening peak hours and disconnecting the supply whenever the condition is violated.
The discoms have also been asked to not allow power supply to advertising hoardings and decorative lighting except for festivals organised at public places of worship.
However, SCCL, ports, telegraphs, university, lift irrigation schemes and other essential services have been exempted from power cuts.
Graphic
APERC MOVES
* Power cuts by discoms approved till March, 2013
* No change in duration of power cuts
* Penal charges at the rate of 3 to 5 times the normal tariff in case of overdrawal of power
* No power for hoardings, decorative lighting
* Festivals at public places of worship exempted from power cuts
Projected Power Shortage
Month Daily power deficit (in million units)
September: 38
October: 49
November: 39
December: 31
January: 21
February: 40
March: 79
April: 74
Intro: APERC allows power discome to impose current level of power cuts till March but discoms say deficit will continue till May
Express News Service
Hyderabad: Power cuts in the state are all set to continue till May, 2013 if one goes by what the distribution companies told the Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC).
On Saturday, the APERC issued orders permitting power cuts, with same duration as is being imposed now, till March 2013. The Andhra Pradesh Central Power Distribution Company Limited (APCPDCL), on behalf of all the four discoms in the state, had submitted a representation to APERC on August 29 to impose restriction on power supply to HT, LT and other consumers. In its request, it also said that the power deficit will continue till May next year.
Though, the APERC said that the power supply restrictions would be reviewed from time to time based on the demand and supply position, if one goes by the statement of the discoms, a relief before May is unlikely.
As of now, the power cuts are for three hours in cities and five hours in towns. Transco sources said that to increase the duration of the cuts, they would have to seek the permission of APERC again..
The APERC has also fixed penal charges for overdrawal of power by consumers. "In view of the shortage scenario and in order to maintain grid discipline and equitable distribution of available power among different consumers, penal charges are approved," the APERC said in its order.
Accordingly, charges for demand in excess of the permitted demand limit (PDL) will be three times that of the normal tariff. Energy charges for anything over the permitted consumption limit (PCL) during off-peak period shall also be thrice the normal tariff. Charges on anything more than PCL during peak period will be five times the normal tariff. The discoms have been permitted to levy these penal charges based on the MRI readings.
The APERC has also imposed some restrictions on usage while directing the discoms not to levy cross subsidy surcharge and additional surcharge till these restrictions are removed. The discoms have been asked not to allow drawal of power by welding sets during evening peak hours and disconnecting the supply whenever the condition is violated.
The discoms have also been asked to not allow power supply to advertising hoardings and decorative lighting except for festivals organised at public places of worship.
However, SCCL, ports, telegraphs, university, lift irrigation schemes and other essential services have been exempted from power cuts.
Graphic
APERC MOVES
* Power cuts by discoms approved till March, 2013
* No change in duration of power cuts
* Penal charges at the rate of 3 to 5 times the normal tariff in case of overdrawal of power
* No power for hoardings, decorative lighting
* Festivals at public places of worship exempted from power cuts
Projected Power Shortage
Month Daily power deficit (in million units)
September: 38
October: 49
November: 39
December: 31
January: 21
February: 40
March: 79
April: 74
Sunday, 26 August 2012
Amid power woes, Andhra ministers run up huge bills
By V V Balakrishna | ENS - HYDERABAD
26th August 2012 08:14 AM
Even as chief minister Kiran Kumar Reddy preaches power saving to outage ravaged people across the state, ministers and state-supported VIPs are running up monthly electricity bills of several thousand rupees, paid entirely by the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department.
Galla Aruna tops the list of cabinet ministers toting up huge power bills, with Rs 62,657 in July.
Opposition leader Chandrababu Naidu - whose bill is paid by the government - is no slouch either: his Jubilee Hills residence ran up a bill of Rs 84,352 in July.
The chief minister’s camp office at Begumpet costs the exchequer even more: its monthly power bills are in the region of Rs 1 lakh.
Ministers Mukesh Goud, D K Aruna and Danam Nagender all burnt midnight oil to the tune of Rs 15,000 or more (see graphic).
The chief minister advised people not to use air-conditioners but his ministers have apparently not heard him.
All of them flout a rule not to have more than two ACs in their official residences.
One senior minister has no less than 12. Another enjoys six.
Roads & Buildings officials say the two-AC limit was fixed in the late 1950s and should be revised to four, considering the fact that most ministers now have three-bedroom houses with an office.
“But a dozen ACs? Nothing but a waste of public money,” fumed an R&B official.
Whenever a minister has sought permission to install additional ACs at his residence, R&B staff do remind the government about the two AC rule. But the government always vetoes the objection.
Whatever the excess, it is the people who pay for it. One minister, a big industrialist, constructed a sprawling house that clocks up a large power bill - paid by the people.
Some ministers have multiple power connections - again paid by the people.
“The government should fix a maximum limit for power consumption by ministers. If the government fixes Rs 20,000 per month, any bill above that should be borne by the minister,” an R&B official said.
The suggestion has been sent to the government recently. However, no action has been taken.
GRAPHIC
POWER BILLS BY MINISTERS AND OTHERS IN JULY 2012
Galla Aruna Rs 62,657
M Mukesh Goud - Rs 33,188
P Sudharshan Reddy - Rs 6,346
E Pratap Reddy - Rs 11,021
Danam Nagender - Rs 17,321
DK Aruna - Rs 25,015
N Chandrababu Naidu (Opposition leader and Cabinet rank) - Rs 84,352
Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy's camp office - around Rs one lakh per month
A Chakrapani Rs 4,016
COMMENTS:
Power cuts, costly yarn driving weavers to suicide
More from this section Amid power woes, Andhra ministers run up huge bills TDP moves Consumer Forum over power loss Assembly special meet to discuss SC, ST Sub-plan report Andhra CM not in a hurry on Dharmana issue Botcha falls from high command's grace? .Comments(4) It is huge shame. It is demoralizing that we today live in a country where the leaders are plundering the country for their own benefit. Winston Churchill, 65 years ago said of Indians, “Power will go to the hands of rascals, rogues, freebooters and charlatans; all Indian leaders will be of low caliber and men of straw. They will have sweet tongues and silly hearts. Giving falls promises will be their game with the poor and stupid masses. They shall be shameless and unpatriotic in their ways while handling problems of people. They will fight amongst themselves for power and India will be lost in political squabbles. Justice will be a matter of Joke. A day would come when even air, water..., and even common salt would be taxed in India.” How Prophetic Winston Churchill was, way back in 1930. Dont blame White man for India's problems. Indians are unfit to Rule themselves. Now they are being led by Bandits in Delhi. Such is our India. What a Shame
Posted by Truth at 08/26/2012 08:52 Reply to this Report abuse
This is Our India. Check this, dated Nov 2010 http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/Sonia-Gandhi-s-power-bill-over-Rs-7-lakh-for-3-years/Article1-623106.aspx
Posted by Truth at 08/26/2012 09:09 Reply to this Report abuse
OH! The followers of mahatama are leading very simple life ,we must congratulate them for setting an example for others.
Posted by l.s.mohandoss at 08/26/2012 10:11 Reply to this Report abuse
the followers of GANDHI, SET AN GOOD EXAMPLE FOR OTHERS. oh!
Posted by l.s.mohandoss at 08/26/2012 10:16 Reply to this Report abuse
26th August 2012 08:14 AM
Even as chief minister Kiran Kumar Reddy preaches power saving to outage ravaged people across the state, ministers and state-supported VIPs are running up monthly electricity bills of several thousand rupees, paid entirely by the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department.
Galla Aruna tops the list of cabinet ministers toting up huge power bills, with Rs 62,657 in July.
Opposition leader Chandrababu Naidu - whose bill is paid by the government - is no slouch either: his Jubilee Hills residence ran up a bill of Rs 84,352 in July.
The chief minister’s camp office at Begumpet costs the exchequer even more: its monthly power bills are in the region of Rs 1 lakh.
Ministers Mukesh Goud, D K Aruna and Danam Nagender all burnt midnight oil to the tune of Rs 15,000 or more (see graphic).
The chief minister advised people not to use air-conditioners but his ministers have apparently not heard him.
All of them flout a rule not to have more than two ACs in their official residences.
One senior minister has no less than 12. Another enjoys six.
Roads & Buildings officials say the two-AC limit was fixed in the late 1950s and should be revised to four, considering the fact that most ministers now have three-bedroom houses with an office.
“But a dozen ACs? Nothing but a waste of public money,” fumed an R&B official.
Whenever a minister has sought permission to install additional ACs at his residence, R&B staff do remind the government about the two AC rule. But the government always vetoes the objection.
Whatever the excess, it is the people who pay for it. One minister, a big industrialist, constructed a sprawling house that clocks up a large power bill - paid by the people.
Some ministers have multiple power connections - again paid by the people.
“The government should fix a maximum limit for power consumption by ministers. If the government fixes Rs 20,000 per month, any bill above that should be borne by the minister,” an R&B official said.
The suggestion has been sent to the government recently. However, no action has been taken.
GRAPHIC
POWER BILLS BY MINISTERS AND OTHERS IN JULY 2012
Galla Aruna Rs 62,657
M Mukesh Goud - Rs 33,188
P Sudharshan Reddy - Rs 6,346
E Pratap Reddy - Rs 11,021
Danam Nagender - Rs 17,321
DK Aruna - Rs 25,015
N Chandrababu Naidu (Opposition leader and Cabinet rank) - Rs 84,352
Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy's camp office - around Rs one lakh per month
A Chakrapani Rs 4,016
COMMENTS:
Power cuts, costly yarn driving weavers to suicide
More from this section Amid power woes, Andhra ministers run up huge bills TDP moves Consumer Forum over power loss Assembly special meet to discuss SC, ST Sub-plan report Andhra CM not in a hurry on Dharmana issue Botcha falls from high command's grace? .Comments(4) It is huge shame. It is demoralizing that we today live in a country where the leaders are plundering the country for their own benefit. Winston Churchill, 65 years ago said of Indians, “Power will go to the hands of rascals, rogues, freebooters and charlatans; all Indian leaders will be of low caliber and men of straw. They will have sweet tongues and silly hearts. Giving falls promises will be their game with the poor and stupid masses. They shall be shameless and unpatriotic in their ways while handling problems of people. They will fight amongst themselves for power and India will be lost in political squabbles. Justice will be a matter of Joke. A day would come when even air, water..., and even common salt would be taxed in India.” How Prophetic Winston Churchill was, way back in 1930. Dont blame White man for India's problems. Indians are unfit to Rule themselves. Now they are being led by Bandits in Delhi. Such is our India. What a Shame
Posted by Truth at 08/26/2012 08:52 Reply to this Report abuse
This is Our India. Check this, dated Nov 2010 http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/Sonia-Gandhi-s-power-bill-over-Rs-7-lakh-for-3-years/Article1-623106.aspx
Posted by Truth at 08/26/2012 09:09 Reply to this Report abuse
OH! The followers of mahatama are leading very simple life ,we must congratulate them for setting an example for others.
Posted by l.s.mohandoss at 08/26/2012 10:11 Reply to this Report abuse
the followers of GANDHI, SET AN GOOD EXAMPLE FOR OTHERS. oh!
Posted by l.s.mohandoss at 08/26/2012 10:16 Reply to this Report abuse
Friday, 24 August 2012
Power supply crisis: Is there a solution?
GROPING IN DARK
By Express News Service - HYDERABAD
09th July 2012 11:04 AM
The state is facing a major power crisis. Relief from the cessation of agricultural activities in May has ended and utilities will now have to provide power for khariff season. As a result, the domestic consumers will have to go through an ordeal.
But the government does not have any sure fire method to solve the crisis except asking the consumers to grin and bear the situation.
With the situation turning alarming, the top brass of the power utility is putting its head together on July 11 to wriggle out by giving some excuses to the consumers. In this critical juncture of power supply position, the principal secretary energy Dinesh Kumar has decided to review general power supply position and various aspects of power sector, that includes ensuring 7 hours power supply to farmers, status of short-term and medium-term bidding, separation of agricultural feeders, and other issues at an high level meeting to be held at Vidyut Soudha on July 11. CMDs of APTransco and Discoms will attend the meeting, after which the officials have to submit a report to the government.
The State government is contemplating giving permission to a maximum number of hydel projects on canals and rivulets. For this, a cabinet sub-committee has to visit some states and give its report. The government will then prepare a mini-hydel power policy and once the policy is in place, the construction of those projects will start. So far, there are only 36 commissioned hydel projects with a total capacity of 101 MW. "We want to encourage mini-hydel projects in a big way," minister Peddi Sudharshan Reddy, member of the sub-committee, said. But no one knows how long it will take to sanction the projects or how long it will take to commission the same.
"How are you going to overcome the shortage?" chief minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy asks officials at every review meeting for which the suggested solutions are impracticable in the short-run. For the last two years, there has been no improvement on the power supply front.
The supply of gas, lack of dedicated power corridor, slow progress in adding additional capacity and lack of sufficient coal are some of the major problems that have been encountered by the power utility for several years. Whenever there is a shortage of power because of monsoon failure, the officials blame the nature.
The only viable short term measure is buying power. So far, 922 MW is tied up with different sources. Additional power from NTPC Jhajjar has been tied up (131 MW) for July and October. By then, the crop season will be nearing completion.
The medium term power purchase is concerned with technical bids that are still under evaluation. The price bid will be opened on July 15 and tenders will be finalised by August 2012 so as to secure transmission corridor by July 2013.
Transmission corridor: Whenever there is a shortage of power, the utility looks to other agencies and states to purchase power. Even if it was ready to pay higher price for unit, bringing electricity to the state is a difficult problem due to non-availability of Transmission Corridors.
By Express News Service - HYDERABAD
09th July 2012 11:04 AM
The state is facing a major power crisis. Relief from the cessation of agricultural activities in May has ended and utilities will now have to provide power for khariff season. As a result, the domestic consumers will have to go through an ordeal.
But the government does not have any sure fire method to solve the crisis except asking the consumers to grin and bear the situation.
With the situation turning alarming, the top brass of the power utility is putting its head together on July 11 to wriggle out by giving some excuses to the consumers. In this critical juncture of power supply position, the principal secretary energy Dinesh Kumar has decided to review general power supply position and various aspects of power sector, that includes ensuring 7 hours power supply to farmers, status of short-term and medium-term bidding, separation of agricultural feeders, and other issues at an high level meeting to be held at Vidyut Soudha on July 11. CMDs of APTransco and Discoms will attend the meeting, after which the officials have to submit a report to the government.
The State government is contemplating giving permission to a maximum number of hydel projects on canals and rivulets. For this, a cabinet sub-committee has to visit some states and give its report. The government will then prepare a mini-hydel power policy and once the policy is in place, the construction of those projects will start. So far, there are only 36 commissioned hydel projects with a total capacity of 101 MW. "We want to encourage mini-hydel projects in a big way," minister Peddi Sudharshan Reddy, member of the sub-committee, said. But no one knows how long it will take to sanction the projects or how long it will take to commission the same.
"How are you going to overcome the shortage?" chief minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy asks officials at every review meeting for which the suggested solutions are impracticable in the short-run. For the last two years, there has been no improvement on the power supply front.
The supply of gas, lack of dedicated power corridor, slow progress in adding additional capacity and lack of sufficient coal are some of the major problems that have been encountered by the power utility for several years. Whenever there is a shortage of power because of monsoon failure, the officials blame the nature.
The only viable short term measure is buying power. So far, 922 MW is tied up with different sources. Additional power from NTPC Jhajjar has been tied up (131 MW) for July and October. By then, the crop season will be nearing completion.
The medium term power purchase is concerned with technical bids that are still under evaluation. The price bid will be opened on July 15 and tenders will be finalised by August 2012 so as to secure transmission corridor by July 2013.
Transmission corridor: Whenever there is a shortage of power, the utility looks to other agencies and states to purchase power. Even if it was ready to pay higher price for unit, bringing electricity to the state is a difficult problem due to non-availability of Transmission Corridors.
Monday, 20 August 2012
Government to bank on hydel projects
By Express News Service - HYDERABAD
16th July 2012 09:28 AM
The state government is all set to give permissions for construction of a large number of mini-hydro-electricity projects across canals and rivulets to overcome the power crisis.
For this, a policy on construction of mini-hydel projects will be formulated soon and a draft paper will be ready within one month. A team of ministers comprising major irrigation minister P Sudarshan Reddy, revenue minister N Raghuveera Reddy and agriculture minister Kanna Lakshminarayana and others will visit Maharashtra, Karnataka and other states to study the mini-hydel projects there soon and submit a report to the government.
A decision to this effect has been taken recently. Already, officials concerned have visited a couple of states and briefed the ministers. "To study and evolve a policy on mini-hydel projects, we wanted to visit some states," Sudarshan Reddy told Express. Mini-hydel projects would be sanctioned to a maximum extent, he added.
Officials said the government had not sanctioned new hydel projects on canals and rivers in the last five years as construction of these projects might cause hardships to local farmers. Now, with the acute shortage of power, the government thinks that mini-hydel projects will help it overcome the crisis to some extent.
APGenco director (hydel) G Adiseshu said that a draft policy paper would be prepared and presented to the ministers soon. A decision on giving permission for mini-hydel projects would be taken only after studying the success of projects in other states, another official said.
Once the draft policy is ready, the cabinet sub-committee will place the same before the Cabinet for approval. Sources said that the Non-conventional Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh (Nedcap) received proposals for construction of as many as 393 min-hydel projects on canals and rivers except on the Krishna and the Godavari. The total capacity of all the 393 hydel projects will be 994.11 MW. Of these, 59 with an installed capacity of 183.10 MW have been permitted. Of the 59 plants, 36 have started production and are generating 100.65 MW of power. Another 80 plants with a capacity of 80 MW are under various stages of construction.
Permission would be accorded for new mini-hydel projects by the Nedcap, sources said.
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