Review of allocation of coal blocks may benefit state: minister

Review of allocation of coal blocks in the light of coalgate scam may benefit Karnataka, State Energy Minister Shobha Karandlaje on Wednesday said and hoped to get coal block linkage as early as possible for its thermal plants situated here.

“The recent incidents (review of allocation of coal blocks in the light of coalgate scam) may benefit Karnataka. As per the inputs received by the Coal Ministry, we are hopeful of getting coal blocks as early as possible for our thermal plants,” she said.

Addressing members of Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Karandlaje said the state has exhausted its hydel energy resources and plans to set up hydel power stations in Bhutan, Meghalaya and Tripura as these places boast of alternative energy in abundance.

 

Inspite of dwindling water level in Linganamakki and Supa dams, Karandlaje said the government would ensure required power supply to the industry. Karandlaje said renewable energy projects like wind and solar are yet to spread its wings because they are either seasonal and highly expensive, respectively.

“Wind energy is available during September-December, but demand for power is at its peak during January-June. Solar energy costs up to Rs 14 a unit and is costly.” The government has given permission to private producers to produce 11,000 Mw through renewable sources but only 2,200 Mw had gone on line. “The actual supply, however, was still meagre and ranged between just 40 Mw to 100 Mw,” she said.