Shri Sudhanshu Sekhar Barpanda was sworn in as a Member of the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) at a formal ceremony held on Wednesday at the Commission’s Hearing Hall in Bhubaneswar.

The oath of office and secrecy was administered in the presence of Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Energy Department, Shri Vishal Kumar Dev, senior officials of the Government of Odisha, and Members of the Commission.

Ceremony Attended by Senior Officials

The swearing-in ceremony witnessed the participation of several senior officials from the Energy Department and key power sector organizations. Representatives from Odisha Hydro Power Corporation (OHPC), GRIDCO, Odisha Power Transmission Corporation Limited (OPTCL), OERC and other power utilities were present on the occasion.

The event highlighted the state’s continued focus on strengthening regulatory institutions and improving governance in the power sector.

Key Role of OERC in Odisha’s Power Sector

The Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission plays a crucial role in regulating the state’s electricity sector. Its responsibilities include tariff determination, licensing of utilities, consumer protection, promotion of competition, and ensuring efficient integration of renewable energy into the power system.

The Commission also works towards maintaining transparency and accountability while safeguarding the interests of electricity consumers across Odisha.

Boost to Energy Sector Reforms

Officials expressed confidence that Shri Barpanda’s extensive administrative experience will further strengthen the functioning of the Commission. His appointment is expected to contribute significantly to Odisha’s ongoing power sector reforms, energy security initiatives and consumer-centric governance.

The induction is also seen as a step towards supporting the state’s broader vision of “Viksit Odisha” by ensuring a more efficient, reliable and sustainable electricity sector.

With the addition of Shri Barpanda to the Commission, OERC is expected to continue its efforts toward modernizing Odisha’s power sector and enhancing service delivery for consumers across the state.

The post Sudhanshu Sekhar Barpanda Sworn In as Member of Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission appeared first on Odisha Connect.

In a major move to strengthen energy security and provide a stable alternative amid global fuel uncertainties, the Odisha government has decided to accelerate the expansion of City Gas Distribution (CGD) infrastructure across the state.

High-Level Meeting Charts Emergency Roadmap

A high-level review meeting was held at Lok Seva Bhawan under the chairpersonship of Chief Secretary Anu Garg. The meeting was attended by senior officials including Hemant Sharma, Usha Padhee, and Sanjay Kumar Singh, along with representatives from leading energy companies such as GAIL, BPCL, and Adani Total Gas.

Discussions focused on resolving bottlenecks in gas infrastructure development and ensuring faster rollout of PNG (Piped Natural Gas) and CNG networks.

Push for PNG and CNG Adoption

The government aims to encourage households and commercial establishments—including hospitals, hotels, and restaurants—to shift from LPG to PNG and CNG.

The initiative is expected to provide a cleaner, more reliable, and cost-stable energy alternative for both domestic and commercial consumers.

War-Footing Execution Targeted

Following the meeting, the state administration directed that all approvals and infrastructure development for PNG and CNG be completed on a “war footing.”

A strict deadline of June 30, 2026 has been set for fast-tracking key infrastructure projects.

Key Measures Announced

• Fast-Track Clearances: All pipeline-related applications will be approved within 24 hours by municipal bodies and relevant departments.

• Fee Waivers: Road restoration and permission fees for city gas companies will be waived.

• 24×7 Work Permission: Gas infrastructure companies have been allowed to operate round the clock.

• Nodal Officer Appointment: A state-level nodal officer will coordinate between departments.

• Consumer Incentives: Companies will be encouraged to offer subsidies and incentives for PNG connections to households.

Global Fuel Crisis Behind the Move

The decision comes in the backdrop of disruptions in the global petroleum supply chain due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, which have impacted LPG availability.

Under provisions aligned with the Essential Commodities framework, the state is prioritizing natural gas usage as it is largely sourced domestically and offers long-term price stability.

Towards Energy Self-Reliance

The Odisha government reiterated its commitment to building a resilient and self-reliant fuel infrastructure. By expanding city gas networks, the state aims to shield its citizens from global energy volatility while promoting cleaner fuel alternatives.

The post Odisha Govt Fast-Tracks City Gas Infrastructure to Tackle LPG Supply Challenges appeared first on Odisha Connect.