Power Unit to Be Set Up in Goa, Nuclear Power Plant Proposal Under Review: Union Minister Manohar Lal

New Delhi, May 12 – Goa is set to become self-reliant in electricity production and will see a strengthening of its urban infrastructure. During his visit to Goa, Union Minister for Power, Housing, and Urban Development Manohar Lal reviewed various central government projects.

On his arrival in Goa, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant welcomed the Union Power Minister with a bouquet. Minister of State for Power, Shripad Naik, was also present during the visit. The Union Minister reviewed ongoing projects related to power generation and urban development in the state and instructed officials to expedite their implementation. In a meeting with senior officials, the Union Minister emphasized completing new urban development initiatives based on priority and praised the progress made in Goa’s urban sector. He particularly appreciated efforts to reduce AT&C (Aggregate Technical and Commercial) losses and minimize the ACS-ARR (Average Cost of Supply – Average Revenue Realized) gap.

The Union Minister suggested that Goa should work toward becoming self-reliant in power generation and should have its own power production unit. He also instructed officials to explore the possibilities of establishing a nuclear power plant in the state. The minister clearly stated that a detailed plan for setting up a nuclear power plant should be prepared, as currently, 80% of Goa’s power requirements are met from outside the state or through the central pool.

Praise for Rooftop Solar and Simplified Power Connection Process
Union Minister Manohar Lal commended the Goa government for its efforts in promoting rooftop solar installations and simplifying the process for new electricity connections.

During the meeting, the minister emphasized accelerating the implementation of smart metering, which will benefit consumers and DISCOMs (power distribution companies) through data analytics and AI/ML tools. He stated that the installation of smart meters in government offices, residential colonies, commercial and industrial units, and high-load consumers will enhance digital services. He also encouraged the state to further reduce utility losses and integrate more renewable energy into the grid. This will help lower the cost of power supply and improve overall performance.

Instructions to Accelerate Urban Development
In a joint meeting with Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik and Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, the Union Minister directed officials to speed up the pace of urban development in the state.

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant thanked the Union Minister for his visit and suggested establishing a state-owned power unit and strengthening urban infrastructure. The Union Minister assured the Chief Minister that the central government would continue to support Goa’s consistent development. He added that the government is committed to Goa’s inclusive growth and the enhancement of world-class facilities in the state.