Shimla: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met with Union Minister for Power, New and Renewable Energy R.K Singh in New Delhi today to discuss key issues.
The Chief Minister highlighted concerns about potential revenue losses for the state due to deferred royalty in power projects by SJVN and NHPC.
He requested free power as per the state's policy and emphasized the return of these projects to the state after forty years.
In response, the Union Minister agreed in principle to a minimum royalty of 12 percent for the state, claimed the government.
He suggested a joint review by a team of officers from both sides, including the Central Electricity Authority, to address the state's concerns.
The review is expected to be completed by January 20, as per the Chief Minister's request.
The Chief Minister also sought an increase in the installation of smart meters in the state, with a phased approach and a flexible time limit not tied to fund release conditions. The Union Minister approved this request.
Chief Minister urged the fulfillment of announcements made by the Union Minister in tribal areas during his previous visit.