Photo SOurce: Babushhai Bureau
CM Mann: Punjab power sector now profitable even with free electricity to 90% households
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Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, April 6, 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday said the state’s power sector has witnessed a major turnaround, claiming that the once loss-making system is now profitable even while providing free electricity to the majority of households.
Addressing a press conference, Mann said nearly 90% of domestic consumers are receiving zero electricity bills under the government’s free power scheme, which provides up to 600 units. He added that the government has also reduced tariffs for commercial and industrial consumers while ensuring uninterrupted supply to farmers.
Highlighting key reforms, the Chief Minister said the state has strengthened its power infrastructure by adding new substations, upgrading transformers, and expanding transmission capacity. He also pointed to the acquisition of the 540 MW thermal power plant at Goindwal Sahib, describing it as a cost-effective move that reversed the earlier trend of privatisation of public assets. The plant, now named after Sri Guru Amar Das Ji, has seen a significant improvement in efficiency since its takeover.
Mann said the government has also boosted employment in the sector, with over 9,500 युवाओं recruited in Punjab State Power Corporation Limited and Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited since 2022, while recruitment for additional posts is underway. He added that the state power utility has secured an A+ rating, ranking among the top performers nationally.
On irrigation, the Chief Minister said canal water usage has increased substantially, reducing dependence on groundwater. He claimed that Punjab has improved water distribution efficiency and ensured adequate supply for agriculture, along with more than eight hours of power during the paddy season, largely during daytime.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the state’s push towards renewable energy, stating that Punjab aims to significantly increase the share of green power in the coming years, with large-scale solar projects already underway.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Mann said efforts are being made to provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable power while strengthening infrastructure and supporting farmers and industry alike.