By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, September 16, 2020: Tata Power, which recently won power distribution licenses for four circles under the Central Electricity Supply Utility (CESU) in Odisha, has submitted bids for three power distribution companies (Discoms) – Western, Southern and Northern Electricity Supply Companies, namely WESCO, SOUTHCO and NESCO.

India Power Corporation Ltd is the other company, which has submitted bids for SOUTHCO and WESCO leaving Tata Power the only bidder for NESCO.

The bids were called earlier this year for privatization of the three discoms. Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) is overseeing the biddings by the private companies.

Incidentally, Odisha government is making second attempt at privatising its power distribution after having a setback in the first attempt.

Once the bids are finalized, the ownership of the discoms will vest with the private player. The company would manage power purchase, build infrastructure, manage billing and collection and adhere to pre-decided targets of bringing down losses.