Maximum power supply of 6,501 MW in MP

Bhopal, Feb 25: The Madhya Pradesh Government has been making constant efforts to step up power production and has created a new record by supplying a maximum of 6,501 MW power in 2007-08.

In his address to the state legislative assembly on the start of the 40-day budget session, Governor Balram Jakhar said special efforts were being made to increase the installed capacity for power generation in view of rising demand.

The work on the 500 MW Birsinghpur thermal power plant and the third unit of the 20 MW Madikheda hydro power plant has been completed this year. Efforts were being made to make the Amarkantak thermal power plant's 210 MW expansion unit operational.

In order to encourage captive production for power availability, 20 paise cess per unit has been abolished.

Power supply has improved during 'rabi' season this year as compared to previous year. Power was supplied in three-phase to agricultural pumps during 'rabi' season, while industrial consumers were provided power round the clock.

Power generation capacity of 86.67 MW through non-conventional resources, wind energy, bio-mass and solar energy has been established. The procedure of temporary pump connection has been simplified for the convenience of peasants.

A 'sona chandi' scheme has been launched for agriculturists under which they are being given a discount of 15-20 per cent besides a silver or gold coin on availing a temporary connection.

UNI