New Delhi: State-run Power Grid Corporation is likely to get USD 400 million (over Rs 1,980 crore) funding from the International Finance Corp for undertaking electricity transmission projects in the country.
The proposed funding would make up for 15 percent of the national power transmission company's projects cost, estimated to be worth USD 2.3-3.5 billion, according to the IFC.
The entity, part of World Bank group, focuses on lending to entities in developing countries.
IFC would put up the USD 400 million funding proposal before its board on May 3.
"The total project cost is estimated to be USD 2.3-3.5 billion over the next 12 months... IFC financing of upto USD 400 million is expected to finance approximately 15 percent of the project cost on corporate finance basis," IFC said in its 'Summary of Proposed Investment'.
Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL) is expected to fund 70 percent of the projects' cost through debt while the remaining 30 percent will be from internal accruals.
"The proceeds from IFC is intended for financing transmission projects to be undertaken by Power Grid and shall not be used for EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) consulting and/or O&M (Operations & Maintenance) services and/or joint-venture projects," IFC said.
Balance of the debt would be raised from multilateral lenders "namely World Bank and ADB and through issuance of domestic bonds".
Apart from this loan, Power Grid has also asked for IFC's support to enter other markets.
"Power Grid is also seeking engagement with IFC to increase their participation in other emerging markets. They would like to take up projects in Asia and Africa to expand their footprint and support from IFC will help them enter these markets," the summary noted.
The public sector major already has board approvals for investments worth about Rs 70,000 crore related to 12th Plan Period (2012-17) projects.
It reported a profit after tax of Rs 809 crore in the three months ended December 2011 as compared to Rs 591 crore in the year-ago period.
PTI
First Published: Sunday, March 04, 2012, 15:32