Won’t raise power tariffs, will ensure uninterrupted supply, says energy minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar

Vijayawada: Reiterating the state govt's commitment to ensuring quality and uninterrupted power supply without increasing electricity tariffs, energy minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar noted that new substations are being developed rapidly across the State to strengthen infrastructure and ensure reliable supply.Ravi Kumar, along with special chief secretary (Energy) K Vijayanand, APCPDCL CMD P Pulla Reddy and Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath (Chinni), inaugurated the newly constructed APCPDCL corporate office at Gunadala in Vijayawada on Wednesday. The facility, built at an estimated cost of Rs 35-40 crore with a built-up area of 65,000 sq ft, is equipped with modern infrastructure.Speaking on the occasion, Ravi Kumar reaffirmed that the govt will not hike the power tariff charges and that priority is being given to uninterrupted supply and addressing low-voltage issues. He added that the department aims to improve consumer satisfaction levels from the current 80% to over 95%.On support to the agriculture sector, the energy minister said works under the PM Kusum scheme to provide free daytime power to farmers would begin soon, with tenders already finalised. He explained that the state is adopting a strategic approach by purchasing power during low-demand periods and generating electricity during peak hours to avoid shortages.Vijayanand said advanced software systems are being used to ensure transparency in power purchase and sales. He noted that the state successfully handled a record peak demand of 14,009 MW and ensured uninterrupted supply of 275 million units during the summer.He also pointed out that the new APCPDCL building has been designed on a "Net Zero" model, incorporating solar power and green technologies to reduce energy costs and promote carbon neutrality.