VISAKHAPATNAM: As part of its long-term planning, keeping the coal crisis and future energy needs in mind, the state government has decided to procure 7,000 MW solar power from the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) at 2.49 per unit against the prevailing market exchange price of 12-16.
The SECI will start supplying 3,000 MW from September 2024 in the first tranche, 3,000 MW from September 2025 in the second tranche and 1,000 MW from September 2026 in the third tranche.
State energy minister Peddireddi Ramachandra Reddy said Andhra Pradesh has decided to procure power from SECI at a highly cost-effective price compared to the market rates. “This is to ensure power supply to the agriculture sector, which is the backbone of the economy. Our ultimate objective is to provide 24×7 power supply on a sustainable basis. At the same time, the state will strengthen the power sector for the overall economic development of the state,” said Ramachandra Reddy.
There will be no burden on discoms in purchasing this power as the cost will be borne by the state government. If the project is set up outside the state, the cost of power evacuation, substation network creation, etc. need not be borne by Andhra Pradesh.
Source: PTI
