Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar has unveiled a massive roadmap to bolster power infrastructure across Andhra Pradesh, focusing on uninterrupted supply, agricultural support, and renewable energy expansion.

  • ₹6,200 crore worth of infrastructure projects grounded across the state.
  • Focus on providing daytime quality power supply to farmers.
  • Expansion of Surya Ghar scheme with ₹20,000 additional state subsidy for backward classes.
  • Installation of over 200 new 33/11 KV substations.

In a major move to secure the state's energy future, Andhra Pradesh Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar has announced comprehensive plans to strengthen the power infrastructure. During a review meeting held at the State guest house in Rayachoti, Annamayya district, the Minister instructed officials to proactively identify regions with rising power demands and prepare a robust infrastructure roadmap for the next five years.

The state government has already grounded infrastructure works valued at approximately ₹6,200 crore. This massive investment covers the installation of new transformers, substations, and power lines. Specifically, more than 200 33/11 KV substations are being established statewide to ensure a stable and reliable grid. The Minister emphasized the need to upgrade higher-capacity substations and transmission lines to prevent outages.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that as Andhra Pradesh undergoes rapid industrial and agricultural expansion, the pressure on the existing power grid is reaching a critical point. By investing heavily in both distribution and transmission, the government is attempting to mitigate the risks of voltage fluctuations and load shedding that could stifle economic growth.

The strategic integration of solar energy and grid strengthening is essential for Andhra Pradesh to achieve long-term energy sovereignty.

A significant portion of this initiative is dedicated to the agricultural sector. Minister Ravi Kumar directed officials to create an action plan that ensures daytime quality power supply for farmers, aligning with the objectives of the PM-KUSUM scheme. Furthermore, he issued strict directives to prevent power-related accidents, particularly in residential areas where hazardous high-tension lines may pose a risk to public safety.

On the renewable energy front, the government is making significant strides through the Surya Ghar scheme. While 6 lakh connections have already been provided to SC and ST households, the government now plans to extend this benefit to backward-class households. To facilitate this, the state is considering an additional assistance of up to ₹20,000 per connection, over and above the central government's subsidy.

To modernize the distribution network, the state is implementing the ₹700-crore Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). Officials have been tasked with identifying low-voltage pockets and upgrading distribution transformers to improve efficiency. Additionally, plans are underway for an indoor substation in Madanapalle to meet localized demand.

Did You Know?: Substation upgrades are critical for reducing 'line losses,' which is the energy lost as heat during transmission.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much is the government investing in power infrastructure?
The government has grounded works worth approximately ₹6,200 crore across the state.

2. What is the special benefit for backward-class households under the solar scheme?
The state plans to provide up to ₹20,000 in additional assistance per connection, supplementing the central subsidy.