The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) is gearing up to address the burgeoning demand for electricity in Pune circle by proposing the construction of 17 substations, 14 of 220 KV capacity and 3 of 132 KV capacity. The ambitious plan is part of the company’s vision to ensure sustainable and high-quality power supply in the region by the year 2050. The proposal aligns with the State Government’s commitment to enhancing the distribution sector through the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
Key Points from Chief Engineer Rajendra Pawar’s Review:
- Growing Consumer Base: In response to the escalating need for electricity, Chief Engineer Rajendra Pawar highlighted the requirement for 17 substations in Pune circle to cater to the growing consumer base and maintain reliable power supply.
- Record Electricity Connections: The year 2023 witnessed a record achievement with 2,06,468 new electricity connections provided in Pune. The speed of new connections has notably increased, reaching 19 to 20 thousand per month, up from the previous 15 to 16 thousand.
- Revenue and Collection Increase: Pune’s electricity sector saw a significant boost, with a 14.4 percent increase in revenue and a 14.8 percent rise in electricity bill collection.
- Accurate Billing Improvement: The accurate billing rate increased by 1.54 percent, reaching an impressive 95.23 percent.
- Reduction in Distribution Losses: Distribution and commercial losses currently stand at 7.64 percent, reflecting a decrease of 0.36 percent compared to previous years.
- Rapid Urbanization Impact: With rapid urbanization in the Pune periphery, the construction of 17 ultra-high voltage substations becomes imperative for meeting power supply demands until 2050.
- Strategic Substation Locations: The proposed substations include 14 of 220 KV power at strategic locations like Balewadi, Wagholi, Moshi, Bavdhan, and 3 substations of 132 KV power at Khanapur, Katraj, and Bhugaon Knowledge City.
- Approval and Implementation: Notably, approval has already been granted for setting up ultra-high voltage substations at Charholi and Safari Park. Further actions, including the installation of two new 50 MVA power transformers at Bhosari Century Enka, are underway.
- RDSS Expenditure Plan: As part of the State Government’s RDSS, an expenditure plan of Rs 5570.89 crore has been prepared for Pune. This includes the development of 37 new substations, installation of 23 new power transformers, and other essential works.
The proposed measures underscore MSEDCL’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and ensuring a robust power supply to meet the evolving needs of Pune’s dynamic landscape.
