Power Grid should not be Central Transmission Utility: FICCI

NEW DELHI: Industry body FICCI has suggested that state-run Power Grid Corp should no longer be the 'Central Transmission Utility' as its present powers can lead to arm-twisting private players. 

The industry body suggested that it would be better if a neutral entity like an independent Central Transmission Utility (CTU) becomes tariff collection agency and it is only possible when CTU tag is hived off from Power Grid.

The paper in its observation said that the CTU cell at Power Grid is grossly under staffed and hiring for some positions is not being prioritised. The paper further observed that Power Grid can make sensitive information available to it without much difficulty.

At present, the transmission projects are offered through the tendering route and they are identified by an Empowered Committee (EC). EC consists of officials from the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), CEA ( Central Electricity Authority), NTPCBSE 0.31 % and Power Grid. 

"Being part of the EC, Power Grid is likely to be privy to commercially sensitive information and decision making process while private players do not even have any representation," FICCI paper observed. ECONOMIC TIMES .