CESC records a 21 per cent increase in net profit

Kolkata, Oct 31 (UNI) Private-sector power utility CESC Ltd recorded a 21 per cent increase in net profit in the quarter ended September, 2006 at Rs 69 crore from Rs 57 crore, propelled by lower interest outgo, better efficiency and sales volume.

The revenue of the RPG Group flagship company also rose to Rs 697 crore from Rs 688 crore as compared to the corresponding period last fiscal.

" The company's outlook remains very positive. In the next six months, we would continue to attempt at maintaining steady growth, " vice-president Sanjeev Goenka said.

CESC would invest Rs 18,000 crore over the next six years in two power projects - a 2000 MW plant at Jharkhand and a 100 MW one in Orissa, Mr Goenka said.

The project cost would be funded from the company's internal accruals and debts, he said.

The Vice-Chairman said the RPG Group would also invest Rs 190 crore in malls and housing projects in Kolkata.

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