2,328 applications are pending for fresh power connections in the state. Of these 2,263 are for low tension connections, 59 for high tension (11 KV) and six application from high tension (33 KV) consumers are pending. The remaining are extra high tension consumers.

Chief Electrical Engineer R A Ghali told the court that the majority of applicants are small shops, restaurants, and agricultural operation who were waiting long for power connections. He added that the State Electricity Department could release power to all the applicants and even service new industries due to improved power supply in the state.

The opening of the private sector Reliance Salgaocar power plantwith a capacity of 40 MW has helped ease the power shortage in Goa, the chief electrical engineer said.

The HC had stayed granting of new power connections in May last year following a PIL filed by some small scale industries. At that time the court had also banned illumination of public and private buildings using electricity.