Eight-hour load-shedding in Nashik, Marathwada regions

However, Pune zone is unlikely to face load-shedding because of various factors, one of them being higher recovery of power dues.

Many parts of rural Nashik, Ahmednagar and different parts of Marathwada including Aurangabad have been subjected to load-shedding.

This is part of the MSEDCL strategy to implement a feeder-wise load-shedding system where transmission and distribution losses are more than 60%. In these loss making areas, the power utility has decided to adopt a system, whereby higher the transmission and distribution loss, more the load-shedding.

Feeders through which consumers are provided electricity are grouped in to different categories based on revenue collection efficiency and power thefts. MSEDCL authorities pointed out that the customer base (feeder wise) has been categorised from A-G depending on the distribution and commercial losses of the consumers on the respective feeder. Feeders with the worst records have been classified in categories G1, G2 and G3.

The power demand has increased in the state and on some days has even crossed 28,500 MW, compelling the utility to undertake load-shedding in areas where there are higher transmission and distribution losses. Pune zone including Haveli, Mulshi, Maval, Khed, Velhe and Junnar is unlikely to face load-shedding, officials said.

Meanwhile, the state has approved a proposal allowing MSEDCL to purchase power from private players till June 15 until the power generation situation improves in the state. Energy minister Nitin Raut told the cabinet on Friday that efforts are being taken to avoid load-shedding but the power demand has risen due to the summer heat.