Power-starved Maharashtra may have to go in for more load sheddings as Ratnagiri Gas & Power Pvt Ltd (RGPPL) is not in a position to generate 740-mw from its block 2.
Due to the technical reasons, which RGPPL is yet to ascertain, the company will be able to generate only 600-650 mw of power. Sources at the state government and RGPPL have confirmed this development.
The company has invited technical experts from GE, which has supplied the 9FA turbine and other equipments for block 2, to assess the situation and carry out corrective measures.
According to sources, ?RGPPL is unable to generate 740-mw fully and it is definitely a serious matter as the state?s power shortage will increase further. RGPPL has already informed that it is in touch with GE and is trying to take corrective measures.?
Meanwhile, the state government has rejected RGPPL?s proposal to increase capacity charge further due to the dip in the power generation from block 2.
The government sources said it would not be possible as the capacity charge is arrived at based on the 80% plant load factor.
?If RGPPL is unable to achieve the generation at 80% plant load factor, it is it?s responsibility to bear the additional cost,? sources noted.
Further, RGPPL has synchronised block 3 of 740-mw on October 15 and 16. The company is hopeful that block 2 would be operationalised by the end of October.
?Even after the starting of block 3 generation, if block 2 generation doesn?t touch 740-mw, the state?s woes will further increase,? sources said.
Revival of the damaged block 1, which was in operation during May 1999 and May 2001, would not be possible before end of January or middle of February 2008. RGPPL has recently announced that generation of around 2,100-mw would be possible by January next year.