OERC stresses on public participation for improved power supply

With a view to ensure improved power supply and rein in theft of electricity, the Orissa Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) has stressed on increased public participation.

The commission has pointed out that agencies like User associations, Panchayati Raj Institution, Non-Govt. Organizations (NGOs), cooperative societies and Self Help Groups (SHGs) can act as franchisees in electricity distribution.

As per the guidelines of the Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) of the Government of India, franchisees for power distribution have to be put in place before the release of second installment of funds by the Rural Electrification Corporation (REC), the nodal agency for implementation of RGGVY.

The commission recently evaluated the performance of various franchisee models operating in the state. Pointing out that the power sector in Orissa is going through a critical phase with distribution loss in LT (low tension) sector touching 56.25 per cent by the end of 2009-10, the OERC stated that honest consumers are the worst sufferers due to the theft and misuse of electricity by dishonest consumers.

“All honest citizens must come forward to stop the pilferage and misuse of electricity. This can only be attained with mass mobilization, awareness drive and equitable participation of the society and this is the philosophy behind designing various franchisee models”, said an OERC release.

The Commission observed during the review meeting held recently that the collection and revenue realization in the franchisee areas has increased. Central Electricity Supply utility of Orissa Limited (Cesu) was found to be the most prompt in awarding micro franchisees in its area of operation followed by Western Electricity Supply Company (Wesco).

Cesu has awarded 148 SHGs to operate franchisee in its area of operations.