FIs, led by IDBI, have insisted that the per unit tariff of Rs 2.25 for Dabhol’s Phase-I power as indicated by the ailing MSEB is not workable and should be increased to Rs 3 per unit to recover part of the fixed-charges.This insistence comes even as the FIs along with offshore lenders to the distressed Dabhol project are expected to meet soon to discuss the possibilities on the resumption of Dabhol project based on the per unit tariff of Rs 2.25. It is pertinent to note that FI sources have welcomed the state cabinet’s approval for restarting Dabhol Phase-I (658) power purchase at 50 per cent plant-load factor at a per unit tariff of Rs 2.25. “At least, a beginning has been made for negotiations. We are awaiting a formal letter from MSEB and, thereafter, a committee comprising of Indian and offshore lenders will look into the pros and cons of MSEB’s offer and take a final decision on the restart of Dabhol power generation,” sources said. However, FI sources reiterated that they would call upon MSEB to reconsider its offer of tariff of Rs 2.25 especially when the crude price has been reported. Both MSEB and State sources said that there was no question of negotiating with FIs. “We will take on the FIs, which have been threatening to discontinue lendings in future if the per unit tariff of Rs 3 was not agreed upon,” a senior minister said, adding that the state cabinet led by CM Vilasrao Deshmukh were united and would fight back.
