Tamil Nadu CM unveils projects to tackle power crisis

CHENNAI: In an effort to tackle the growing power crisis in the state, Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa on Thursday announced a series of power projects that would cost the exchequer more than Rs 20,000 crore. This will include establishing a new hydel power station at Nilgiris district at a cost of Rs 7,000 crore.
Reading a statement in the state assembly, the CM said that 2,000 MW underground hydel power station through 'Tailrace Tunnile' at Sillahalla in Nilgiris will take 8-10 years for completion and works will be undertaken in two phases, she said.
Fifty-six sub-stations, ranging between 33kv-400 kv, will be set up across the state at an estimated Rs 8000 crore. In addition, she told the house that her government has proposed to purchase long-term power at a cost of 1,000 MW through 'Case-I' bidding for 15 years.
She said that power-related infrastructure will also be strengthened and a scheme has been prepared for Rs 5,000 crore with Japanese assistance.
The CM allotted Rs 500 crore towards procuring 20,000 new transformers and announced an investment subsidy of Rs 20,000 for domestic consumers opting for solar power in their homes and added 10,000 persons will benefit in the first phase of the initiative.
She also said that 11 lakh new power connections will be given to consumers this year.