Chandigarh, June 2
Union Power Minister Manohar Lal on Monday reviewed Haryana’s power sector and centrally sponsored schemes, stressing the need for modernization, reduction in distribution losses, and wider adoption of smart and prepaid metering systems to ensure reliable and efficient electricity supply across the state.
During the review meeting held in Chandigarh, the Union Minister said that meeting rising electricity demand while cutting system losses remains a key priority. He underlined that power utilities must adopt modern technologies and implement focused, results-oriented projects to provide uninterrupted, high-quality power to consumers.
He noted that electricity is not just a basic public service but also a vital economic resource, and therefore strengthening and upgrading the distribution network is essential for long-term efficiency.
Manohar Lal directed officials to reduce the gap between electricity billing and actual supply, increase revenue generation, and improve overall system performance. He observed that Haryana has made significant progress in recent years and should continue its efforts to achieve near-zero power losses.
Officials informed the meeting that Haryana’s aggregate line losses, which were around 34 percent in 2013-14, have come down significantly over time.
The Union Minister also reviewed the implementation of prepaid metering and directed that it be introduced in phases, beginning with government offices, public buildings, and residential connections. He further suggested extending it to consumers with higher connected loads in the next phase and asked officials to begin the process within a fixed timeframe.
On the smart metering programme, he said rapid expansion of smart meters would improve transparency and efficiency, and help reduce losses in the sector. State Energy Minister Anil Vij said all new consumers would be provided with smart meters in the future and highlighted their compatibility with solar energy systems.
The Minister appreciated the Mhara Gaon Jagmag Gaon scheme, calling it a major initiative in improving rural electricity supply. Officials informed that 6,117 villages in Haryana are currently receiving 24-hour power supply, marking a major improvement in rural electrification.
The meeting also reviewed ongoing projects under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme in Gurugram and Faridabad and issued directions to complete pending works within the stipulated timelines.
Officials briefed that Haryana currently has over 16,552 megawatts of contracted power capacity, which is sufficient to meet the present peak demand of around 16,454 megawatts. They added that peak demand is expected to rise to about 19,481 megawatts by 2029, and that long-term planning is already underway.
Under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, Haryana has set a target of 2.20 lakh rooftop solar installations this year, with nearly 86,000 already completed. The Minister stressed that small and middle-income households should be prioritized to ensure wider access to clean energy and reduced electricity costs.
He also reviewed the PM KUSUM Scheme and other energy related programmes, calling for effective implementation and greater public participation in clean energy adoption.
The review highlighted Haryana’s progress in power supply reforms, renewable energy expansion, and distribution efficiency, while setting a clear focus on future demand planning and technology-driven reforms.
