The Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage (TWAD) Board will adopt the public private partnership (PPP) model for the first time to replace over 228 outdated, high-capacity pump sets across 20 Combined Water Supply Schemes (CWSS) in the state. This initiative aims to significantly boost energy efficiency and ensure uninterrupted daily water supply.

A tender will be floated within a week, and the work order is expected by August or September, following vetting by the Tamil Nadu Infrastructure Development Board. TWAD officials noted that electricity accounts for nearly 55 percent of the Board’s total operational expenditure. The plan targets pump sets above 50 HP, many over 15 years old with just 50 percent energy efficiency.

The new system is expected to raise efficiency to at least 80 percent, potentially saving Rs 60 crore annually in power costs. The project covers key areas including Thoothukudi, Pollachi, Perundurai, Sathyamangalam, Tiruchi, and 236 fluoride-affected habitations in Salem. The chosen private partner will maintain the pump sets for five years, ensuring at least 25 percent energy savings, with incentives based on performance. A Rs 1,820 crore CWSS project in Pudukottai may also follow the PPP model.