The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) is set to promote electric cooking in commercial establishments,including hotels and restaurants. This initiative follows a directive from the Government of India urging states and union territories to facilitate the transition to e-cooking . Official sources confirmed that TNPDCL has instructed all distribution companies under its jurisdiction to prioritize applications for new service connections and loan enhancements related to electric cooking.
In bid to streamline process,TNPDCL’s Director of Distribution has directed Chief Engineers across the state to expedite requests for electricity connections and load enhancements. aim is to ensure that commercial and institutional establishments can swiftly adopt electric cooking solutions. A simplified online application process will be made available on the Distribution Company (DISCOM) portal,allowing for easier access to these services .
The push for e-cooking comes amid rising tensions in Gulf region, particularly following Iran's military actions against Kuwait and Bahrain, which have led to increased demand for petroleum products, including Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). Despite the Ministry of Power advising against panic buying, the situation has prompted the government to encourage use of alternative fuels, such as Piped Natural Gas and electric or induction cooktops.
A senior official from the Energy Department noted that the transition to e-cooking has been an ongoing initiative,predating the recent geopolitical developments . Chief Engineers have been tasked with prioritizing applications for new service connections or load enhancements for electric cooking,with commitment to process these requests within a specified timeframe.
While the Centre and national oil companies have assured that there is no shortage of LPG supplies,allegations have surfaced regarding artificially inflated demand,particularly in the commercial gas sector. The rising costs of commercial gas cylinders have forced many restaurants to reduce their menus and increase prices, creating a ripple effect in food industry .
Dr. J. Radhakrishnan,Chairman and Managing Director of Tangedco, emphasized that this initiative presents a significant opportunity for commercial establishments to transition to cleaner energy sources. He noted that many popular restaurants have already embraced e-cooking. “Quite a lot of people have moved to clean energy. The circular sent out by TNPDCL on the advice of Government of India is to address the increasing demand for commercial gas. The response to the initiative will be known in next few weeks,” he stated.
