Mumbai:Keeping in mind the need for further empowerment and modernization of the current electricity distribution system to meet the increasing demand of electricity in the future, the state government has recently approved the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme(RDSS) of about 39 thousand 602 crore to improve the quality of electricity supply, reduce distribution losses and enhance consumer service.
In order to improve the financial stability of the power distribution companies in the state, the RDSS will be implemented with the financial assistance of the Central Government. Due to this scheme, there will be a radical change in the power distribution system of MSEDCL. Features of the scheme are to improve financial stability and operational efficiency through conditional financial assistance, strengthen basic distribution infrastructure, improve quality and availability of power supply, focus on energy audit through smart metering and provide funds for power loss reduction works.
To provide quality, reliable and affordable power supply to the consumers of MSEDCL, to reduce technical and commercial losses to 12 to 15 percent by FY 2024-25 and to bring to zero the gap between the average cost per unit of electricity supply and the average revenue per unit by FY 2024-25. These are the main objectives of this scheme.
In the scheme smart meters will be installed to 1 crore 66 lakh consumers and about Rs 11 thousand 105 crore will be spent on this. Special efforts will be made to reduce the distribution losses and about Rs. 14 thousand 231 crore will be spent on this. This includes construction of 527 new 33/11 KV sub-stations at various places in the state, capacity enhancement of 705 sub-stations, installation of about 29 thousand 893 new distribution transformers and development of SCADA system in 21 cities of the state etc. Similarly, about 14 thousand 266 crore will be spent on empowerment and modernization of power distribution system.
As smart meters will be installed in this scheme, the customers will get accurate electricity bills and as a result, distribution loss will reduce and increase revenue. Also, due to this scheme, uninterrupted and quality power supply will be supplied to the customers. Special efforts have been made by Mr. Vijay Singhal, Chairman and Managing Director of MSEDCL under the guidance of Principal Secretary (Energy) of the State and Chairman and Managing Director of MSETCL Mr. Dinesh Waghmare for the approval of this scheme.
