Bhubaneswar: Odisha is taking significant steps to modernize its power sector, enhance public safety, and expand renewable energy access. Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo recently led a high-level review meeting to align state initiatives with central schemes and ensure a robust, reliable power infrastructure across the region.
He was joined by Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra and Rural Development Minister Shri Rabi Narayan Naik, emphasized the importance of inter-departmental coordination.
ACS Energy, Shri Vishal Kumar Dev, CMD OPTCL, Shri Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, Secretary PR & DW, Shri S N Girish and senior officials of Energy Dept, DISCOMs was present.
A major highlight of the meeting was the integration of the PM-Surya Ghar Yojana with various state housing programs, including the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana. This initiative allows housing beneficiaries the optional opportunity to adopt solar energy. Under this framework, a 1 KW rooftop solar installation in urban areas will receive a central subsidy of 30,000 rupees alongside a state subsidy of 25,000 rupees, leaving the beneficiary to pay just 1,875 rupees. This collaborative funding model aims to deliver continuous clean energy and lower monthly electricity bills for residents.
Infrastructure safety and modernization also took center stage, with the Deputy Chief Minister directing power distribution companies to prioritize public safety through major upgrades. A 3,708 crore rupee project has been approved for underground cabling across all four distribution companies to replace vulnerable overhead lines. Additionally, officials will prepare a comprehensive Safety Detailed Project Report focusing on replacing bare conductors with insulated ones, shifting low-hanging wires, installing fencing at distribution substations, and putting up cradle or guard wires for low-tension protection. The state will also launch a utility shifting portal and a specialized application to streamline these upgrades.
By reviewing rural and urban electrification models for poles, wiring, and street lights, leadership reiterated its commitment to delivering a safe, sustainable, and timely transformation of Odisha’s power infrastructure.