In a meeting with the Ministry of Power (MoP) and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the need for a more holistic approach for solarizing the agricultural sector and innovative models in the rooftop solar sector.

He said that the entire supply chain for the agricultural sector, ranging from solar water pumps to decentralized solar cold storages, must be developed in a more holistic approach. He also stated that every state must have at least one fully solarized city. The city can be the capital or a popular tourist destination and must be powered solely through rooftop solar power.

PM Modi also said that the country needs to boost its production of ingots, solar wafers, cells, and modules. This would also have the additional benefit of generating employment.

Speaking about the power sector collectively, he added that it needs to enhance consumer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and improving financial sustainability. Regarding the power distribution segment, he said, “Instead of looking for a one-size-fits-all solution, the Ministry should put in place state-specific solutions to incentivize each state to improve its performance.”

Additionally, Modi encouraged the Ministry of Power to ensure that distribution companies are transparent on their performance parameters and asked the Ministry to promote the use of “Make in India” equipment in the power sector.

Mercom recently reported that despite all the relief provided considering the ongoing pandemic, many DISCOMs, including those in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh, refused to pay power generators claiming their inability to collect power dues from the consumers. Mercom recently published a report on the recent fiscal stimulus provided to distribution companies and why it’s not a good idea.

Previously, the Prime Minister also held a meeting to take stock of the power sector amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In the meeting, the Prime Minister discussed various measures and long-term reforms for enhancing sustainability, resilience, and efficiency of the sector. The meeting was attended by the Home Minister, Finance Minister, Minister of State for Power, and Minister of State for Finance along with senior government officials.

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