Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal Reviews Power Sector Of Karnataka, Calls for Financial Reforms And Faster Smart Meter Installation

Union Minister of Power, Shri Manohar Lal, conducted a detailed review of the power sector in Karnataka during his visit to Bengaluru today. The review meeting was attended by Shri Shripad Naik, Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy; Shri K. J. George, Minister of Energy, Karnataka; as well as senior officials from the Government of India, the State Government, and REC Ltd. During the meeting, the Karnataka government gave a comprehensive presentation on the status of power generation, transmission, and distribution in the state.

Key points discussed included the current energy mix, challenges related to acquiring land and permissions for transmission infrastructure (Right of Way issues), and the need for enhanced support in upgrading the distribution network. The Union Minister appreciated Karnataka’s efforts in increasing the share of renewable energy in its overall power generation. He mentioned that the purpose of his visit was to gain a better understanding of the issues faced at the ground level and to explore new ways to strengthen the power supply in the state.

He advised the state government to take effective measures to reduce the annual financial losses faced by power utilities. He also emphasized the importance of implementing electricity tariffs that reflect the actual cost of supply. Additionally, he highlighted the need for timely clearance of outstanding dues and subsidies from various government departments. To promote efficiency and transparency, the Minister urged the state to ensure that all government offices, local bodies, and colonies are equipped with prepaid smart meters by August 2025. He also recommended establishing a centralized payment system to manage electricity payments by government departments more effectively.

Shri Manohar Lal further asked the state to expedite the implementation of smart metering for commercial, industrial, and other consumer categories within a fixed timeline. He stressed the importance of resolving Right of Way challenges that are delaying transmission projects and encouraged the adoption of the compensation framework put forward by the Government of India. The Union Minister assured that the central government will continue to support Karnataka in strengthening its power sector and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to the development and welfare of the state and its people.