Patiala: The revenue receipt of PSPCL has shown a downward trend after domestic consumers started getting zero bills. The government estimated a shortfall of Rs 200 crore per month but sources said it is nearly double the amount.
The proportionate subsidy due up to September 16 this year is Rs 12,032 crore while cash payment received in this period is Rs 6,634 crores. After adjusting excise duty and infrastructure charges, balance amount payable on September 16 is Rs 3,851 crore.
Sources said PSPCL sought short-term loan amounting to Rs 2,500 crore. “There has been an increase of around Rs 500 crore per month in the amount of payable subsidy following deterioration of fiscal health of PSPCL amid power subsidies and rising loan amount,” said a senior officer.
Maximum power demand in Punjab in 17 days of September this year varied between 12,108MW to 14,140MW with power supply of 2,653 lakh units to 3,206 lakh units. Last year, maximum power demand varied between 6,525MW to 12,152MW with a supply of 1,473 LU to 2,777 LU.
Power supply by PSPCL in the first 17 days of September was a 31.61% increase over last year’s supply during the same period.
Source: PTI
