Total outstanding dues of Discoms come down to Rs 50,000 crore in January: Power Minister
Power Minister R. K. Singh has said that total outstanding dues of power distribution companies (Discoms) have come down to around Rs 50,000 crore as on January 31, 2024 following the implementation of Electricity (LPS and Related Matters) Rules, 2022. Total outstanding dues of distribution companies (discoms) were at Rs 1,39,947 crore in June 2022. With the implementation of the rules, a remarkable improvement has been seen in recovery of outstanding dues.
The minister said distribution companies are also paying their current dues in time to avoid regulation of open access under the rule. This rule has not only ensured that the outstanding dues are liquidated but has also ensured that the current dues are paid on time. It may be seen that the rule has played a vital role towards ensuring the financial discipline in discoms. This would facilitate investment in the sector necessary to sustain 24x7 electricity supply to consumers
He further said 19 coal-based thermal power plants of total capacity 2.3 GW retired in last three years. While, 28.8 GW power capacity added during March 2022 to December 2023 and the total installed electricity capacity of the nation stands at 428 GW.
