Chirag Gupta
Patna: The achievements of Bihar in the electricity sector were highlighted and appreciated at the Forum of Regulators of Eastern States (FORENS) meeting, organised by the Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission at Hotel Taj. Pankaj Kumar Pal, Energy Secretary, presented the state’s remarkable progress in energy reforms, guided by a roadmap inspired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and implemented under Energy Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav.
Pal emphasised Bihar’s transformation in power distribution, noting the expansion of grid equipment from 45 to 168 and a significant increase in transmission lines and substations. These developments have enabled Bihar to meet a peak electricity demand of 8005 MW, up from 1000 MW, while annual energy consumption rose from 70 to 363 units per capita. Efforts to replace ageing infrastructure have reduced accidents, and faulty transformers are now replaced within 24 hours.
The Chief Minister’s Agriculture Connection Scheme was highlighted as a game-changer for farmers, providing irrigation connections at a 92% subsidised electricity rate. Additionally, solar energy has become a focal point, with projects like the 185 MW solar plant in Kajra, Lakhisarai, featuring the country’s largest battery solar system. Rooftop solar and canal-side floating solar projects are also being developed to enhance renewable energy output.
Bihar’s distribution companies reported profits for the first time last year, signalling self-reliance in the sector. These achievements were lauded by attendees, including regulatory officials and representatives from Tata Power and PWC. BERC Chairman Amir Subhani, alongside dignitaries from neighbouring states like Odisha, Manipur, and West Bengal, praised Bihar’s leadership in energy reforms.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous acknowledgement of Bihar’s innovative and sustainable approach, setting a benchmark for other states to emulate in the power sector.
