Hydro-power draft report ready
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 16 2012: A draft report of the State Hydro-Power Policy, which was framed as part of the overall measures taken up under the stewardship of Chief Minister I Ibobi who is also holding additional portfolio of Power Department, is now ready.

Meanwhile, it is reported that the State Government is keen to woo private investors in the State's power sector.

A highly placed source informed that the State hydro-power policy framed by SBI CAPS gave a detailed account of the State's hydro-power potential as well as rivers.

As per the policy, hydro-power projects can be taken up in the State both by public sector undertakings as well as private companies.

Any hydro-power project which would be taken up in the State anew would be executed after a process of competitive bidding.

The policy stipulates that 11 per cent of the total power generated from new projects should be given to the State Government free of cost.

In addition, 2 to 3 per cent of power should be given to the local people free of cost.

Moreover, eligible local people should be given employment in the power projects.

Ahead of executing any power project, the selected company would be asked to deposit certain amount as security calculated on the basis of installed Megawatts.

If there is delay or the project could not be completed within four years, the share of power allocated to the State free of cost would be raised every year.

The draft policy has been sent to all departments seeking their comments.

It is reported that the Cabinet will discuss the draft policy soon.

Meanwhile, it is said that discussions have been made to entrust power projects of installed capacities less than 5 MW to MANIREDA while those above 5 MW would be implemented by Power Department.

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