Andaman: Union Minister for Power and Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, conducted a comprehensive review of the power sector in Andaman and Nicobar Islands (AN&Is) today, joined by the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory, D.K. Joshi. Senior officials from the UT administration, Ministry of Power, and Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) were also present at the meeting.
The session began with a presentation outlining the current power landscape in the region, including power availability, generation capacity, and the gap between supply and demand. Key challenges and proposed solutions for improving power infrastructure across the islands were discussed, along with updates from Ministry of Power officials on the ongoing interconnection and distribution enhancement projects funded under the Government’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). These projects aim to improve the quality and reliability of power supply throughout the archipelago.
Manohar Lal, marking his first official visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, emphasized reducing the UT’s reliance on diesel-based power generation by transitioning to renewable energy sources like wind energy, coupled with the development of energy storage solutions. “By diversifying our energy mix towards renewables, we can reduce per-unit energy costs and improve sustainability,” he stated, adding that alternative sources, including ethanol-based power, should be explored. The Union Minister also highlighted the importance of developing infrastructure for Electric Vehicles (EVs) and charging stations as a step towards a cleaner energy future.
In addition, Manohar Lal urged the UT administration to expedite implementation of the RDSS projects and to enhance financial viability through improved AT&C loss management and timely payment of dues by government departments. He emphasized that the diligent execution of RDSS initiatives would strengthen the electricity department’s financial stability and help AN&Is become more self-reliant in energy needs.
Lieutenant Governor D.K. Joshi welcomed the Union Minister’s visit to Sri Vijaya Puram and expressed commitment to fast-track infrastructure upgrades under RDSS. He assured the administration’s dedication to addressing urban development and power sector challenges, aiming to improve service delivery and efficiency for island residents.
The Union Minister pledged continued support from the Government of India for the overall growth of the Union Territory, expressing optimism for a strengthened, sustainable power sector in the region.