MERC should help govt-run power cos tackle financial woes, says CM
Yogesh Naik , TNN 4 December 2009

MUMBAI: Chief minister Ashok Chavan on Thursday said the Maharashtra Energy Regulatory Commission (MERC) must take the lead in solving financialwoes of the government-run power companies. He stated this at a meeting with MERC officials, including the commission chairman, V P Raja.

Chavan said the transmission and generation wings of the state-run MSEB had big plans for capacity addition. During the meeting, energy minister Ajit Pawar said there were public protests on providing cheaper electricity to malls. He told that a decision should be taken so that public is not "penalised''. Pawar added that the hike in tariffs led to law and order problems.

Mahavitaran's MD, Ajoy Mehta, said the power companies' expenses were rising, while the MERC permitted only limited expenses. Raja advised the Mahavitaran officers to ensure that power theft and transmission losses are reduced. He told the energy officials to appoint efficient engineers and modernise old plants.