In a pivotal move to bolster Odisha’s energy landscape, Chief Secretary Anu Garg chaired her inaugural high-level review meeting of the Energy Department and associated public sector undertakings (PSUs) today.
The session focused on enhancing power generation, transmission, and distribution while prioritizing affordability, reliability, and efficiency to support the state’s rapid development.
The meeting, held in Bhubaneswar, saw participation from key officials including Principal Secretary Vishal Dev, CMD of OPTCL Bhaskar Sarma, MD of GRIDCO Dr. Satya Priya Rath, MD of OPGC Kedarranjan Pandu, CEOs of the four TP DISCOMs, and directors from various power sector PSUs. Discussions delved into ongoing projects, infrastructure upgrades, renewable energy integration, power procurement strategies, and consumer-oriented services.
Garg emphasized the imperative of delivering “affordable, uninterrupted, reliable, and quality power supply” statewide, while ensuring the long-term sustainability of utilities. She called for accelerated project timelines, seamless inter-departmental coordination, and a strong emphasis on people-centric initiatives. Aligning with Odisha’s vision of a “Samruddha Odisha” contributing to a “Viksit Bharat,” she urged utilities to synchronize their plans with state priorities and reform agendas.
Highlighting renewable potential, the Chief Secretary advocated for swift harnessing of Pumped Storage Projects (PSP) and Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FSPV) systems. She stressed expediting critical infrastructure, such as the 765/400 KV substation near Bishnupur and its transmission lines, to fortify power supply in the capital region. Efforts to minimize transmission losses were also underscored as a priority.
To guarantee assured power, Garg directed the creation of 220 KV ring networks in strategic areas, including the state capital, Keonjhar, Jharsuguda-Sambalpur, Bargarh-Sarasmal, Therubali-Jeypore, and Berhampur-Baliguda regions. She instructed close monitoring of operation and maintenance activities to prevent disruptions.
Further, Garg pushed for robust information dissemination in the sector, advocating time-bound automation and monitoring, including full coverage of substations under the STAMS project within a year. While commending proposed hotline maintenance efforts, she insisted on rigorous safety compliance. Major projects, she noted, should be integrated into the PM GatiShakti framework, praising proactive steps to address rising power demands.
Principal Secretary Vishal Dev briefed on ongoing reforms, affirming the department’s collaboration with utilities to upgrade infrastructure, boost efficiency, and ensure reliable supply. “We are committed to sustainable, technology-driven solutions to meet Odisha’s energy aspirations,” he stated.
Senior officials shared insights on challenges and strategies, signaling a unified approach to tackle growing demand amid the state’s industrial and economic expansion.
This review underscores Odisha’s proactive stance in energy security, positioning it as a model for balanced growth and sustainability.
