Goemkarponn desk
PANAJI: The recent increase in power tariffs across all sectors has raised serious concerns for the members of various industries in Goa, including industrial, hospitality, agriculture, and allied activities. The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) highlighted the challenges faced by local industries in competing with other states where industrial tariffs are lower. According to GCCI, this difference poses a significant threat to the competitiveness and sustainability of Goan industries in the manufacturing sector.
During the public hearing conducted by JERC prior to the tariff increase, GCCI proposed several alternative measures to generate additional revenue without burdening consumers. These measures included steps to minimize power transmission losses, switching back to a KWH-based billing system, and focusing on areas with high distribution losses and peak load restrictions to benefit both consumers and the electricity department.
GCCI also stressed the need for improvements in the quality and reliability of power supply, pointing out that the current standards are lower compared to major cities in India. These concerns highlight the urgent need for addressing the impact of the recent hike in power tariffs on various sectors in Goa.
