PANAJI
The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has expressed serious concerns regarding the recent hike in power tariffs across all sectors, which is set to significantly impact its members from various industries, including industrial, hospitality, agriculture, and allied activities. The tariff hike is the recommendation of the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC).
During the public hearing conducted by JERC before the tariff increase, GCCI had proposed several alternative measures to generate additional revenue without burdening consumers. These suggestions were implementing steps to minimise power transmission losses to improve efficiency and lower costs and switching back from the current KVAH-based billing system to a KWH-based system to make billing more straightforward and cost-effective for consumers. Similarly, identifying high distribution loss areas and focusing on areas with high distribution losses and peak load restrictions to take corrective actions would benefit both consumers and the electricity department, felt GCCI.
GCCI also highlighted the need for improvements in the quality and reliability of power supply, noting that the current standards are much lower compared to major cities in India. To address these issues, the chamber suggested the installation of automated sectionalisers to enhance power distribution efficiency.
GCCI also recommended the formation of mini grids equipped with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and the utilisation of waste heat recovery generating stations at Amona to enhance the reliability and quality of power supply in the region.
To address the peak power shortage in Goa, GCCI urged JERC to direct the Electricity Department to explore alternative avenues such as pumped hydroelectric generation, BESS, and open tenders for procuring peak power. These measures, according to GCCI, would alleviate the peak power problem and ensure a stable supply of electricity.
Despite repeated requests, GCCI also brought to JERC’s notice that no district committee has been formed to review the quality of power supply. This oversight has led to continued dissatisfaction among consumers regarding the power quality.
The increased electricity tariffs for industries in Goa make it challenging for local industries to compete with those in other states, where industrial tariffs are lower. This disparity poses a significant threat to the competitiveness and sustainability of Goan industries in the manufacturing sector. GCCI remains committed to working collaboratively with JERC and the Electricity Department to find balanced solutions that will ensure both the financial health of the power sector and the economic vitality of Goa’s industries, said GCCI director, Kiran Ballikar.
