Unlike last two years, Orissa may not power problems during the summer months this years, thanks to better water reservoir management.
“Since water level in state reservoirs has improved, we expect the power generation from hydro-power units will not be hit this year,” said P K Jena, commissioner-cum-secretary with department of energy, Government of Orissa.
The state gets 35 per cent of its energy needs from hydro sources which require sufficient water reserves in the reservoirs to propel the turbines.
Despite 10 to 15 percent below normal monsoon rainfalls, the water position in all the reservoirs were at appropriate levels and hence, it is unlikely that power generation in the state might be affected this year, Jena said attending an earth science seminar organised by the post-graduate department of Geology, Khallikote (Autonomous) College.
In last two years, the state faced severe power crisis as the hydro-power generation was badly hit because of lower water levels. The state was forced order compulsory power cut for two to five hours daily across the state.
“We don’t think the same situation will be repeated this year despite insufficient rainfalls,” Jena said. The water levels in all the reservoirs improved due to improvement of the reservoir management system, he added.
Major hydro-power station in the state are at Hirakud, Balimela, Rengali, Upper Kolab, Upper Indrabati, Machhakund and small units are located at Samala and Meenakhi.
The energy demand of the state, which was around 2,800 MW two years ago, has crossed 3,300 MW so far due to the rapid industrialisation and increase in the number of domestic consumers.
