Punjab Minister Seeks Funding for Biomass Plants

Harbhajan Singh, Punjab's Power Minister, has requested Viable Gap Funding (VGF) from the central government to promote biomass-based power plants and address stubble burning by farmers. He noted that the cost of conventional power, including Renewable Energy Certificates for Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) compliance, is significantly lower than the tariff of biomass power plants, which is approximately Rs 8 per kilowatt-hour. To enhance the competitiveness of power procurement from biomass power plants for distribution companies (DISCOMs), Singh emphasised the need for VGF from the Government of India. Additionally, he urged permission to use coal from the Pachhwara coal mine by private thermal plants in Punjab, to alleviate the cost burden on state consumers. Harbhajan Singh also highlighted the need to extend the 30% subsidy for solar pumps to those with 15 HP and above, as they are commonly used for irrigation in Punjab.