Patna: In a remarkable feat of strategic innovation and relentless technological intervention, Bihar State Power Holding Company Limited's (BSPHCL) two Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) - North Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (NBPDCL) and South Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (SBPDCL) - have earned a record revenue in last fiscal, signifying a huge operational efficiency.

Marking an unprecedented achievement, the combined revenue of NBPDCL and SBPDCL surged to an all-time high of Rs 15,107 crore in the fiscal year 2023-2024, representing an impressive 14% growth as compared to the previous year. This remarkable milestone underscores the meticulous fusion of prudent policy formulation, innovative revenue collection strategies, and cutting-edge digital interventions spearheaded by the BSPHCL.

Over the past four years, BSPHCL's DISCOMs have witnessed a staggering 76% surge in revenue collection, reaching new heights of success through a consistent annual growth rate of 14%. Notably, amidst this exceptional growth trajectory, the availability of power has seen a substantial increase of 6.9%, ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted power supply for consumers across Bihar.

A key factor in this remarkable success story has been the effective implementation of state-of-the-art technologies and smart measures, resulting in a significant reduction in Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses. From 35% in 2019-2020, AT&C losses have come down to 21.74% in the financial year 2023-2024.

BSPHCL's DISCOMs have also achieved exceptional billing and collection efficiencies, with billing efficiency rising from 75.41% to 83.11% and collection efficiency soaring to an impressive 94.17%. These achievements have not only bolstered revenue growth but have also paved the way for tangible benefits for consumers.

Thanks to BSPHCL's transformative initiatives, consumers could get a reduced rate of 15 paise per unit in the next financial year 2024-2025, underscoring BSPHCL's commitment to consumer welfare. Despite this reduction in tariff, the DISCOMs have witnessed a commendable increase in revenue, showcasing the efficacy of their revenue collection strategies.

Moreover, BSPHCL's DISCOMs have diversified their revenue streams by venturing into electricity sales through power exchange, earning Rs 2,267 crore in the fiscal 2023-2024. These additional revenue sources demonstrate BSPHCL's proactive approach towards financial sustainability and growth.

BSPHCL's relentless pursuit of excellence is further exemplified by the introduction of innovative tools and technologies such as the SAMIKSHA App and SAMPURN, which have transformed revenue collection and energy auditing processes. The widespread installation of Smart Prepaid Meters, with close to 30 lakh installations across urban and rural areas, has further solidified BSPHCL's position as a leader in technological innovation within the power sector.

Under the leadership of Chairman-cum-Managing Director Sanjeev Hans and Managing Directors of SBPDCL and NBPDCL, Mahendra Kumar and Dr Aditya Prakash, respectively, the DISCOMs continue to set new benchmarks in power sector transformation, driven by the Triple T mantra: Team Spirit, Technology leveraging data, and Trust of Consumers and Government. /BI