This is perhaps the only bit of really good news for new generation projects, especially UMPPs. The Finance Ministry has, however, been really keen on taking forward the cause of clean energy initiatives. Th e Budget proposes to allocate about USD 44 million from the National Clean Energy Fund to kick start the Green India Mission in 2011-12. Rural electrifi cation has also received a boost in the arm with a 20% hike in outlay to the RGGVY. However, the distribution sector continues to be the industry’s scapegoat. While an improved outlay was expected towards T&D loss reduction initiatives,the
support to this critical vertical has increased to only Rs 964 crore from Rs 872 crore last year. This almost silent stance is troubling. In the same vein of T&D reduction, an extremely important aspect is smart metering. Energy audited and accounted for is energy saved – and metering is central to this theme. Th e cover story is this issue is, therefore, focused on energy metering. We have also carried a case study, as part of the cover story, on how effi cient metering can lead the way, especially for the distribution sector to signifi cantly curtail losses. Our regular sections follow. Wish you all a pleasant and informative read.

The distribution sector continues to be the industry’s scapegoat

Energy audited and accounted for is energy saved

Saptarshi R Dutta
Editor