India's T&D losses highest in S Asia

India's electricity transmission and distribution losses at 31.05% during 2004-05 were the highest among neghbouring countries.

India's electricity transmission and distribution losses at 31.05 per cent during 2004-05 are the highest among neghbouring countries in South Asia, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Thursday.

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China has the least T&D losses at a mere 7 per cent, followed by Bangladesh and Sri Lanka at 18 per cent each, Power Minister Sushilkumar Shinde said in a written reply.

T&D losses in Myanmar stand at 20 per cent, in Nepal at 21 per cent and in Pakistan at 26 per cent, he said.

An old and weak infrastructure, overloading of existing lines, inadequate funds with states to invest in up-gradation were the main reasons for technical losses, he said.

Low metering, billing and collection efficiency, meter tampering and power theft were the chief causes for high commercial losses, he added.

To a query on ultra mega power projects, Shinde said the government has suggested a three-tier payment security mechanism to private companies to ensure financial viability.

This includes a letter of credit by distribution licensees, an escrow account and the option of direct supply to any other customer in case of default by the buyer.

Replying to another question, Shinde said the government is targeting to add about 62,000 MW during the 11th plan.