Question : WIND AND MINI HYDEL PROJECTS IN KARNATAKA

(a) the details of the rate for power being produced from wind and mini-hydel projects per unit fixed by the Ministry of Non-conventional Energy Sources in Karnataka;

(b) whether the Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited has refused to pay the above tariff as it is costlier;

(c) if so, whether the steps taken by the Government to negotiate with the Government of Karnataka to reduce the tariff on the basis of mode of generation, capacity of the plant and location; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES (SHRI M. KANNAPPAN)

(a): A purchase price of Rs.2.25 per unit(1994-95 base year) with 5% annual escalation was recommended in Guidelines to States for power generated from non-conventional energy sources, including wind power and small hydro power.

(b): Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) have decided to freeze the tariff at the level for the year 2001-02 without allowing any escalation from 2002-03 onwards. The matter regarding tariff determination is before the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission.

(c)&(d): The Ministry has requested the State Government to advise KPTCL to adhere to the policy announced by the State Government in line with the Ministry`s Guidelines.