Centre, states to discuss power sector issues in Kochi

Issues related to the power sector, including the proposed electricity bill, will be discussed during a two-day conference of ministers starting on Friday in Kochi in Kerala.

It will be inaugurated by union Power Minister Piyush Goyal, an official statement here said.

The November 6-7 meet will draw ministers of power, renewable energy and mines from states and union territories.

"The conference will discuss, apart from sector reforms, issues related to power generation, distribution and transmission, coal production and supply, promotion of renewable energy and energy conservation," the statement said.

The meeting comes ahead of the winter session of parliament where the proposed amendments to the Electricity Act will be taken up, it added.

The ministry said discussions will be held on thermal projects, in land acquisition and coal swapping methodology. Participants will be expected to discuss, among others matters, 24X7 power for all.

The outstanding dues of state electricity boards and distribution companies to power sector PSUs and Coal India will also be on the agenda.