Maharashtra peak power shortage up

The peak hour power shortage in Maharashtra has gone up from around 3500 MW to around 4,500 MW over the last few days due to the failure of Mahagenco to implement projects on schedule.

The ministry sources said that two plants of 250 MW each were to become functional at Mahagenco's Parali and Paras power stations in 2006. But due to delays, the Parali plant is expected to be commissioned at the end of this month, while the Paras plant may become functional only in May.

To close the demand and supply gap, the state has to add about 1,000 MW generation capacity.

Another major reason for the power shortage is increasing demand for power from industry as economy is booming and the farm sector. Good monsoon this year is also pushing up the demand for electricity from farmers, sources added.

However, Mahagenco is blaming Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) for the delay in execution of the projects.

BHEL's failure to deliver key components of the power plants on schedule has delayed the commissioning of power plants.