SHILLONG: The Meghalaya state government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with NTPC Limited, a government-owned organization, to improve the power scenario in the northeastern state. This agreement follows the recent criticism from the Meghalaya High Court, which accused the state government of failing to address the electricity shortfall caused by insufficient rainfall. A representative from the Meghalaya power department stated that the MoUs with NTPC Limited encompass various initiatives, including Power Portfolio Management Services (PMS) for Meghalaya, the establishment of Pump Storage Power Plants (PSPs), and the implementation of floating solar projects in the state.

These strategic MoUs were signed in New Delhi on Monday evening, marking a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts to enhance power infrastructure and connectivity across Meghalaya. According to the official, the PMS MoU between the Meghalaya government and NTPC Limited will streamline the management and operations of electricity supply in Meghalaya, ensuring efficient distribution and improved service delivery to the people. Furthermore, it will facilitate the optimal utilization of MeECL's power resources and promote the integration of renewable and green energy available in the country.

By leveraging NTPC's project management expertise, this partnership aims to strengthen the overall power infrastructure and reduce transmission losses, as mentioned in the official statement. The agreement also seeks to explore the untapped potential of small hydro projects. Ultimately, this MoU strives to propel Meghalaya forward in adopting green and clean energy while working towards self-sufficiency in power generation.

The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal, Gurdeep Singh (Chairman and Managing Director of NTPC Limited), and Sanjay Goyal (CMD, Meghalaya Electricity Corporation Limited).

Meanwhile, the Meghalaya High Court, represented by Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice W. Diengdoh, emphasized in a recent order that any scenario leading to electrical deficits disrupting household and commercial activities is unacceptable. Several regions in the state have been experiencing severe power cuts due to significant discrepancies between demand and supply."

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