The Karnataka Government has got the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) clearance to draw 400 kV line through the Western Ghats to evacuate power generated by Udupi Power Corporation Ltd (UPCL) second unit.
According to the Karnataka Higher Education Minister, Dr V.S. Acharya, “The Government, four days ago, got the necessary clearances from the Union Ministry to take up 400 kV line in Western Ghats. Since it is delayed for a year, we are to commence the work on war footing.”
The 400-crore project is to be executed by KPTCL and we hope to complete it by March this year, he added.
The Government has committed to buy power produced by UPCL at Rs 3.71 for a unit.
sulphur content
“Since UPCL is using coal from Indonesia, it has high sulphur content at 0.86/kg. We have asked the promoters of power plant to install desulphurisation plant to minimise pollution,” said Dr Acharya.
Briefing reporters after the State Cabinet meeting, Dr Acharya said “The Cabinet today has ratified spot power purchase made by KPCL during 2011-12.”
“KPCL bought around 1,000 MW by spending Rs 3,877 crore to off-set the State's shortfall during 2011-12. Power was purchased at an average of Rs 4.87/unit and during peak period, about 300 MW was purchased at Rs 5.81/unit,” he added.
As for power needs during 2012-13, Karnataka is banking on completing of 400 kV line to evacuate power generated by Udupi Power Corporation Ltd (UPCL) and Bellary power's third unit.
“For summer needs, we are to follow KERC's guidelines in power purchase. At present we feel comfortable for the two projects are to yield sufficient power to tide over the period,” said Dr Acharya.