Nashik, Sep 10 (NationPress) Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Wednesday that the launch of the Central Power Research Laboratory's regional testing laboratory (RTL) in Nashik will eliminate the need for electrical equipment manufacturing industries to travel to Hyderabad or Bhopal for testing. This initiative lays the groundwork for local production of electrical equipment within the state.

“Maharashtra is poised to become a key hub for electric vehicle manufacturing in India. The establishment of electric vehicle testing facilities at the CPRI's regional testing laboratory in Nashik will further propel the growth of the EV sector,” he stated.

During the inauguration of the Regional Testing Laboratory of the Central Power Research Institute in Shilapur, the Chief Minister highlighted the presence of Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, along with state Ministers Chhagan Bhujbal, Girish Mahajan, and Dadaji Bhuse, as well as CPRI Director General Ashish Singh and others.

CM Fadnavis emphasized the significance of the CPRI's Regional Testing Laboratory for Maharashtra, noting that its approval was secured during the 12th Finance Commission, resulting in a robust system now in place.

Previously, investments in this sector were hampered due to high costs associated with testing electrical equipment.

“The RTL will establish essential systems for various products, ranging from transformers to electrical devices. The production of EVs is being supported in Pune, Nashik, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and this laboratory will benefit that sector,” he added.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, significant reforms have been introduced in the energy sector. It is anticipated that electricity consumption will quadruple over the next 25 years, compared to the previous 25 years. Consequently, Maharashtra has initiated plans to install 45,000 MW of capacity over the last three years, aiming for self-sufficiency in energy,” stated the Chief Minister.

He mentioned that by strategizing for power generation, transmission, and distribution until 2035, the state is investing Rs 2 lakh crore in the energy sector, with support from the Central government. This investment focuses on enhancing electricity distribution networks, green energy generation, and reliable electricity supply.

He noted that Maharashtra ranks first in the Central government’s energy sector evaluation.

Looking ahead, he said: “In the next three to four years, Maharashtra will build a dependable energy infrastructure. The state is progressing towards implementing the world’s largest solar energy distribution system. In due course, 16,000 MW of electricity will be generated, allowing farmers to access daytime electricity. Additionally, electricity prices will be reduced by 2 percent annually from 2025 to 2030, benefiting both consumers and industries, alongside sustainable power supply provisions for industries.”

“Nashik district is transforming into a significant investment hub. In the past six months, seven major industrial firms have invested in the area. Mining equipment manufacturing will take place in Nashik. The district is establishing itself as a prominent investment center due to the Samruddhi Highway. Efficient transportation of goods from Nashik to JNPT will be facilitated, and Nashik will also be connected to Vadhavan Port, positioning it as an 'industrial junction' in the future,” remarked the Chief Minister.

Union Power Minister Khattar emphasized that this laboratory is vital for the power sector, as electrical appliances for both domestic and commercial use undergo rigorous testing before deployment. Every appliance in the power sector is manufactured based on quality testing standards. The RTL is crucial for this testing and will address the growing needs of industries in Western India. This advanced Regional Testing Laboratory symbolizes progress in science and engineering.