Politics, Institutions and Project Finance: The Dabhol Power Project

Abstract

This case reviews the development and financing of the Dabhol power plant in India's Maharashtra state. This project was controversial from inception for three main reasons: the promoter (the now defunct Enron Corporation) sought to minimise its capital commitment in the project; the project economics relied on high final output pricing relative to prevailing (subsidised) price levels; and both project and financing transactions failed to protect adequately against political disruption. For practical purposes it may be considered an example of a failed project finance venture. This case explores in particular how risks associated with developing such ventures in a politically volatile environment may be mishandled by promoters and financiers. In principle it aims to illustrate the difference between managing operational risks and managing and mitigating project risks in an uncertain institutional setting.