Union Power Minister Manohar Lal has urged the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration to focus on increasing power generation from renewable sources, particularly wind energy, to reduce reliance on diesel-based electricity. Speaking at a review meeting in Sri Vijaya Puram, Lal highlighted the need to transition to cleaner energy to lower energy costs in the archipelago.

The minister advised exploring ethanol-based fuel alternatives and improving energy storage systems to enhance power generation efficiency. He also stressed timely settlements of government department dues to reduce transmission losses and narrow the ACS-ARR gap (Average Cost of Supply vs. Average Revenue Realized).

Additionally, Lal called for the swift execution of projects under the revamped distribution sector scheme, aiming to enhance the power infrastructure of the Union Territory.

The meeting was attended by Lieutenant Governor D K Joshi, senior power ministry officials, and representatives from power sector CPSEs.