Power Minister Shri Manohar Lal reviews Power Sector in Mizoram

**Executive Summary** Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal chaired a review meeting in Aizawl to evaluate Mizoram's power sector reforms and progress under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). The meeting established a commitment to reduce AT&C losses to 25% by March 2027 and complete statewide smart meter installations by June 2027. Key action items include accelerating renewable energy schemes and ensuring the financial viability of the State’s electricity department. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Operational Efficiency and Reforms** * Emphasis was placed on reducing Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses and improving billing and collection efficiency. * The State is required to ensure timely clearance of Government department dues and subsidy payments. * The State committed to a target of 25% AT&C losses by March 2027. * **Smart Metering Infrastructure** * Progress was reviewed for smart meter installations, specifically focusing on prepaid conversion for Government, Commercial, Industrial, and High-load consumers (>10 kW). * The deadline for statewide completion of smart meter installations is set for June 2027. * **Renewable Energy and Transmission** * The State was urged to accelerate beneficiary registration and installation targets under the PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana schemes. * Review of resource adequacy and intra-State Transmission planning was conducted to address growing demand and difficult terrain challenges. * **Financial and Sectoral Viability** * The Union Minister highlighted that sincere efforts in reform are essential to making the electricity department financially viable and the State power sector self-sufficient. * The Government of India assured continued support for the State's overall development. **Impact Analysis** **State Government of Mizoram (Power & Electricity Department)** **Impact** The department is under mandate to improve its financial performance and infrastructure to meet national targets and ensure self-sufficiency. **Action Required** Must expeditiously implement works sanctioned under RDSS, clear internal department dues, and meet the June 2027 deadline for smart meter rollout. **Government, Commercial, Industrial, and High-load Consumers** **Impact** These consumers are prioritized for the transition to a prepaid smart metering system. **Action Required** Must comply with the conversion to prepaid smart meters as the installation project progresses through 2027. **Residential and Agricultural Beneficiaries** **Impact** There is an increased push for participation in central solar schemes (PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana). **Action Required** Eligible individuals are encouraged to accelerate registration and meet installation targets under these renewable energy schemes.

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