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Sri Pradip Kumar Das takes charge as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), a Central Power Financial Institution. Sri Das has been appointed for a period of five years with effect from the date of his assumption of charge of the post, or till the date of his superannuation, or until further orders, whichever is earliest. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with the Ministry of Home Affairs, has provided its consent for the appointment during May, 2020.
This selection by the Prime Minister itself speaks a lot.
We welcome his new role as CMD of IREDA and wish him the Best while he takes IREDA to new heights by virtue of his immense talent and capability to make any PSU or a Government Organisation very vibrant
India adds 3.5 GW of Solar Energy Capacity in First Half of 2021.
JMK Analytics, a Renewable Energy Research firm in its report said that India added 3.5 GW of solar capacity in the first six months of the financial year 2022. The cumulative renewable capacity is 96.95 GW, though the Government claims an achievement of 100 GW. The difference is due to some projects scheduled commissioning and expected completion like the roof top solar power Amongst the total Renewable Energy generated in India during the first half of 2021, Solar Power continues to be the dominant segment and is on the top. Its share is at 44%. Wind power is closely next at 41% of the Renewable mix generated. As per JMK Analytics, the current pipeline of solar, wind, and hybrid projects is around 56 GW. Some projects, though are expected to be commissioned in coming 3-4 years which was targeted for 2022. 25 GW of projects are at the bidding stage, the tenders issued but auctions are not completed. The 3.5 GW of Solar Power added in first half of 2021 is 63% higher when compared the similar period in 2020. . Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh were the leading states with most of the large-scale solar installations during this period. As for further projections in 2021, abou, 11 GW of solar capacity and 2.8 GW of fresh wind capacity is likely to get installed besides 3 GW of Wind power capacity in 2021. When these are installed, it certainly would show significant improvement compared to earlier three years, when it was only 7GW of Solar and 4.5 GW of Wind segment. The Government is very keen that it accomplishes the targets fixed without much margin.
JMK Analytics, a Renewable Energy Research firm in its report said that India added 3.5 GW of solar capacity in the first six months of the financial year 2022. The cumulative renewable capacity is 96.95 GW, though the Government claims an achievement of 100 GW. The difference is due to some projects scheduled commissioning and expected completion like the roof top solar power Amongst the total Renewable Energy generated in India during the first half of 2021, Solar Power continues to be the dominant segment and is on the top. Its share is at 44%. Wind power is closely next at 41% of the Renewable mix generated. As per JMK Analytics, the current pipeline of solar, wind, and hybrid projects is around 56 GW. Some projects, though are expected to be commissioned in coming 3-4 years which was targeted for 2022. 25 GW of projects are at the bidding stage, the tenders issued but auctions are not completed. The 3.5 GW of Solar Power added in first half of 2021 is 63% higher when compared the similar period in 2020. . Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh were the leading states with most of the large-scale solar installations during this period. As for further projections in 2021, abou, 11 GW of solar capacity and 2.8 GW of fresh wind capacity is likely to get installed besides 3 GW of Wind power capacity in 2021. When these are installed, it certainly would show significant improvement compared to earlier three years, when it was only 7GW of Solar and 4.5 GW of Wind segment. The Government is very keen that it accomplishes the targets fixed without much margin.
India, Only Country In G-20, Moving Fast Towards Achieving Its Climate Goals.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on 15 August 2021 during the Independence Day Speech that India is the only country in the group of G-20 countries that is moving fast towards achieving its climate goals. India’s emphasis on environmental security along with National Security is laudable. Following sectors were, vividly explained, by the Prime Minister where remarkable achievements made and or in progress. Move towards electric mobility, Our Vehicle Scrap Policy, increase in the forest area or the number of national parks, energy independence by reducing energy imports, moving towards gas based economy and create a network – CNG, PNG across the country, and the target of 20 percent ethanol blending. Substantiating the above segments, Shri Modi said that on electric mobility electrification of the railways is also progressing at a fast pace. The Indian Railways has set a target of becoming Net Zero Carbon Emitter by 2030. Emphasis is given on Mission Circular Economy by adopting Vehicle Scrap Policy. Shri Modi had set the country a target of reducing its oil imports dependence from 77 percent of consumption to 67 percent by 2022. . India is progressing fast on three of its initiative’s, i.e. on its ethanol blending plans, the massive CBG (Compressed Bio Gas) initiative, and its progress on building quality solar energy capacity. He said India spends more than Rs 12 lakh crore annually for energy imports. For the country’s progress, India’s energy independence is the need of the hour, necessary to make a self-reliant India, Shri Modi also pointed out that India has increased the forest area or the number of national parks, the number of tigers and the Asiatic lion and it is a matter of happiness for the people. He added that India has set a target of 450 GW of renewable energy. Out of this, the target of 100 GW has been achieved by India ahead of schedule. These efforts has gained confidence of the world. The formation of the International Solar Alliance is a great example of this he pointed out. Shri Modi also said that there is a much bigger goal that is going to give quantum jump to India in the field of climate, i.e. Green Hydrogen. A higher share of renewable energy will actually create the conditions necessary for an easier green hydrogen focus. For this National Hydrogen Mission, was, also announced recently. The idea is to make India, a hub of green hydrogen manufacturing, that can subsequently make it an energy exporter, rather than spend the Rs 12 lakh crore it does, currently on energy imports.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on 15 August 2021 during the Independence Day Speech that India is the only country in the group of G-20 countries that is moving fast towards achieving its climate goals. India’s emphasis on environmental security along with National Security is laudable. Following sectors were, vividly explained, by the Prime Minister where remarkable achievements made and or in progress. Move towards electric mobility, Our Vehicle Scrap Policy, increase in the forest area or the number of national parks, energy independence by reducing energy imports, moving towards gas based economy and create a network – CNG, PNG across the country, and the target of 20 percent ethanol blending. Substantiating the above segments, Shri Modi said that on electric mobility electrification of the railways is also progressing at a fast pace. The Indian Railways has set a target of becoming Net Zero Carbon Emitter by 2030. Emphasis is given on Mission Circular Economy by adopting Vehicle Scrap Policy. Shri Modi had set the country a target of reducing its oil imports dependence from 77 percent of consumption to 67 percent by 2022. . India is progressing fast on three of its initiative’s, i.e. on its ethanol blending plans, the massive CBG (Compressed Bio Gas) initiative, and its progress on building quality solar energy capacity. He said India spends more than Rs 12 lakh crore annually for energy imports. For the country’s progress, India’s energy independence is the need of the hour, necessary to make a self-reliant India, Shri Modi also pointed out that India has increased the forest area or the number of national parks, the number of tigers and the Asiatic lion and it is a matter of happiness for the people. He added that India has set a target of 450 GW of renewable energy. Out of this, the target of 100 GW has been achieved by India ahead of schedule. These efforts has gained confidence of the world. The formation of the International Solar Alliance is a great example of this he pointed out. Shri Modi also said that there is a much bigger goal that is going to give quantum jump to India in the field of climate, i.e. Green Hydrogen. A higher share of renewable energy will actually create the conditions necessary for an easier green hydrogen focus. For this National Hydrogen Mission, was, also announced recently. The idea is to make India, a hub of green hydrogen manufacturing, that can subsequently make it an energy exporter, rather than spend the Rs 12 lakh crore it does, currently on energy imports.
Record rise in Renewable energy investment during first half.
Investors in renewable energy have pumped in significant amount of money than ever in the first half of the year. This is still far from enough to reduce the rising carbon emissions. As per the data from BloombergNEF $174 billion was spent on solar, offshore wind and other green technologies and companies during the period. This is 1.8% more than the previous year. It is still 7% below the previous six months. The small increase shows the industry’s capacity to spring, leading the fight against climate change against rising costs this year. However, it’s way below what’s needed for nations and companies to reach their targets to limit emissions over the ensuing decades. Surprisingly Renewable energy investment has withstood the effects of the global pandemic, in contrast to other sectors of the energy economy. An immediate acceleration in funding is the need of the time if we are to get on track for global net zero emission of carbon dioxide. The growth was increased by a record first half for new money raised on public markets, touching $28.2 billion, which is more than fivefold from the same period last year. This is due to commitments to renewable energy companies by venture capital and private equity. Investment in solar projects was up 9% to a record $78.9 billion in the first half. Solar projects in China were able to pool $4.9 billion in the second quarter, up from $2.8 billion in the first quarter. However, investment in wind projects dropped to $58 billion, down by more than 30% compared with the same period last year when developers were rushing to take advantage of expiring support mechanisms in China and the U.S.
Investors in renewable energy have pumped in significant amount of money than ever in the first half of the year. This is still far from enough to reduce the rising carbon emissions. As per the data from BloombergNEF $174 billion was spent on solar, offshore wind and other green technologies and companies during the period. This is 1.8% more than the previous year. It is still 7% below the previous six months. The small increase shows the industry’s capacity to spring, leading the fight against climate change against rising costs this year. However, it’s way below what’s needed for nations and companies to reach their targets to limit emissions over the ensuing decades. Surprisingly Renewable energy investment has withstood the effects of the global pandemic, in contrast to other sectors of the energy economy. An immediate acceleration in funding is the need of the time if we are to get on track for global net zero emission of carbon dioxide. The growth was increased by a record first half for new money raised on public markets, touching $28.2 billion, which is more than fivefold from the same period last year. This is due to commitments to renewable energy companies by venture capital and private equity. Investment in solar projects was up 9% to a record $78.9 billion in the first half. Solar projects in China were able to pool $4.9 billion in the second quarter, up from $2.8 billion in the first quarter. However, investment in wind projects dropped to $58 billion, down by more than 30% compared with the same period last year when developers were rushing to take advantage of expiring support mechanisms in China and the U.S.
Uttarakhand making mandatory Solar panels and Rain harvesting in Residentials.
With the groundwater levels going deeper and the fluctuating climate conditions, the policy makers of Uttarakhand State have now taken committed policies for preserving the renewable sources of water and electricity. Shri. S P Subudhi, Director of Directorate of Environment Conservation and Climate Change, Uttarakhand has pointed out that Rainwater harvesting will recharges aquifers reduce urban flooding and ensure water supply in water-scarce areas. As a result, it is the right time to adopt greener ways of living to sustain greenery. The Directorate is planning to make the people of Uttarakhand more aware of a sustainable mode of living. Increased urbanisation and industrialisation have touched the people of the hill State and is making them move away from the old way of life. These people state have traditionally co-existed with nature so far. As per the state government, around 13,372 sq km area in Uttarakhand where the groundwater can be artificially recharged by 5,335 million cubic meter of harvested rainwater. Uttarakhand thrives on power generated from all three sources — solar, hydro and thermal. Yet the State continues to buy electricity from other states. The environment directorate intends to end this dependence. The State has 295 MW installed capacity of domestic solar power plants, which includes both domestic as well as ground mounted solar plants. As per Shri Subudhi through a rooftop- or ground-mounted solar plant at home people will be able to generate their own electricity. Such a move would make the State divert the excess energy for the State’s industries, pushing them to grow. This move subsequently make Uttarakhand a self sufficient State for Electricity power and need purchase electricity from other States.
With the groundwater levels going deeper and the fluctuating climate conditions, the policy makers of Uttarakhand State have now taken committed policies for preserving the renewable sources of water and electricity. Shri. S P Subudhi, Director of Directorate of Environment Conservation and Climate Change, Uttarakhand has pointed out that Rainwater harvesting will recharges aquifers reduce urban flooding and ensure water supply in water-scarce areas. As a result, it is the right time to adopt greener ways of living to sustain greenery. The Directorate is planning to make the people of Uttarakhand more aware of a sustainable mode of living. Increased urbanisation and industrialisation have touched the people of the hill State and is making them move away from the old way of life. These people state have traditionally co-existed with nature so far. As per the state government, around 13,372 sq km area in Uttarakhand where the groundwater can be artificially recharged by 5,335 million cubic meter of harvested rainwater. Uttarakhand thrives on power generated from all three sources — solar, hydro and thermal. Yet the State continues to buy electricity from other states. The environment directorate intends to end this dependence. The State has 295 MW installed capacity of domestic solar power plants, which includes both domestic as well as ground mounted solar plants. As per Shri Subudhi through a rooftop- or ground-mounted solar plant at home people will be able to generate their own electricity. Such a move would make the State divert the excess energy for the State’s industries, pushing them to grow. This move subsequently make Uttarakhand a self sufficient State for Electricity power and need purchase electricity from other States.
India and Germany to boost skills in Solar Power Sector.
As the World over is shifting towards the renewable energy in view of the Climate Changes, the vision of Rajasthan Solar Association is an admirable one. Rajasthan Solar Association and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH (Germany), signed an agreement on 27th July 2021 for the skill development in the solar segment with the help of workshops and training programmes that are conceived and implemented by the professionals. Indo German Vocational Education and Training Program (IGVET) under the GIZ GmbH is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). GIZ aims at improving the skills of India’s labour force. The program emphasizes the active role of the private sector in providing high quality, on-the-job training opportunities. RSA in association with the GIZ has designed a series of initiatives in the coming years for the skill development in the solar segment. Suman Kumar and Sunil Bansal, president and general secretary of RSA appraised GIZ executives regarding the RSA’s initiative to start a skill development institute along with a facilitation center for the solar industry stakeholders at Bap in Jodhpur with the help of the state government.
As the World over is shifting towards the renewable energy in view of the Climate Changes, the vision of Rajasthan Solar Association is an admirable one. Rajasthan Solar Association and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH (Germany), signed an agreement on 27th July 2021 for the skill development in the solar segment with the help of workshops and training programmes that are conceived and implemented by the professionals. Indo German Vocational Education and Training Program (IGVET) under the GIZ GmbH is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). GIZ aims at improving the skills of India’s labour force. The program emphasizes the active role of the private sector in providing high quality, on-the-job training opportunities. RSA in association with the GIZ has designed a series of initiatives in the coming years for the skill development in the solar segment. Suman Kumar and Sunil Bansal, president and general secretary of RSA appraised GIZ executives regarding the RSA’s initiative to start a skill development institute along with a facilitation center for the solar industry stakeholders at Bap in Jodhpur with the help of the state government.
Gujarat tapping of Energy from Wind power to a new record level.
Gujarat bestowed with high wind velocity across its coastal upped its electricity generation from wind energy to a high level. Gujarat’s average wind power generation on 21st July 2021 reached 106 million or 4,432 MW units compared to 108 Mus or 4,600 MW in July 2019. This shows that the State is fully geared and committed to generate electricity from the wind energy always available at its source as an alternate source of energy to conventional source. This also shows that India, collectively from the States, can generate electricity from wind power at par with the developed Nations and use it also, saving huge exchequer on the usage of conventional energy. This is a good sign for other States to tap the Wind energy and collectively accomplish a carbon free, clean safe and healthy environment. A good sign to reduce the Global Warming too. According to the Western Regional Load Dispatch Centre (WRLD), a central government entity, the daily peak of wind power generation in Gujarat was recorded at 4,712MW on 21st July 2021, when the state’s maximum electricity demand was recorded at 14,758 MW. Wind power has dual advantage. Firstly, it is cheaper and there is no fixed cost involved. As a result it is beneficial for consumers. Secondly, it is environment-friendly as it reduces carbon emissions. Gujarat produced more power from wind farms than conventional thermal power plants. Electricity generation from wind energy sources is growing at a faster rate with new projects coming up across Gujarat. The State is the second largest producer of wind power (with total installed capacity of 7,542 MW) in India next to Tamil Nadu.
Gujarat bestowed with high wind velocity across its coastal upped its electricity generation from wind energy to a high level. Gujarat’s average wind power generation on 21st July 2021 reached 106 million or 4,432 MW units compared to 108 Mus or 4,600 MW in July 2019. This shows that the State is fully geared and committed to generate electricity from the wind energy always available at its source as an alternate source of energy to conventional source. This also shows that India, collectively from the States, can generate electricity from wind power at par with the developed Nations and use it also, saving huge exchequer on the usage of conventional energy. This is a good sign for other States to tap the Wind energy and collectively accomplish a carbon free, clean safe and healthy environment. A good sign to reduce the Global Warming too. According to the Western Regional Load Dispatch Centre (WRLD), a central government entity, the daily peak of wind power generation in Gujarat was recorded at 4,712MW on 21st July 2021, when the state’s maximum electricity demand was recorded at 14,758 MW. Wind power has dual advantage. Firstly, it is cheaper and there is no fixed cost involved. As a result it is beneficial for consumers. Secondly, it is environment-friendly as it reduces carbon emissions. Gujarat produced more power from wind farms than conventional thermal power plants. Electricity generation from wind energy sources is growing at a faster rate with new projects coming up across Gujarat. The State is the second largest producer of wind power (with total installed capacity of 7,542 MW) in India next to Tamil Nadu.
After Delhi, Maharashtra & Gujarat EV Policies, Rajasthan follows suit.
The world is committedly moving, towards a carbon emission free and a clean alternate energy, thereby, reducing the global warming and maintain the eco-system for a healthier and safe living. India in its endeavor is to be the world leader in adopting to renewable energy is offering subsidies and incentives to corporates, manufacturing of renewable energy segment for switching over to a sustainable renewable energy. One of the segments of the renewable energy is the usage of Electric Vehicles enabling the end users to accept them and sustained use of the EVs. State Governments, through their set Policy has extended subsidies and incentives for increasing the usage of EVs and setting up of EV Industry or the Manufacturing Units. State Governments of Delhi, Maharashtra and Gujarat are following policies widely accepted by the EV Industry and accepted by the end users of EVs for its usage. Rajasthan Government on 16th, July 2021 has also announced a policy to give subsidy to increase the sale of electric vehicles (EV) in the State. As per the policy document, the state component of the goods and services tax (SGST) is being refunded to the buyers of all two and three-wheeler Electric Vehicles in Rajasthan from April 2021 to March 2022. Over and above this, buyers of electric two- and three-wheelers are given additional cash subsidies between Rs 5,000 and Rs 20,000 depending on the size of the battery equipped. The Rajasthan government is not extending any cash subsidies for electric cars or buses. The quantum of the subsidy for two- and three-wheelers also is lower than the other three states mentioned. These incentives are over and above the subsidy extended by the Centre under the phase-2 of the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric and hybrid vehicles (FAME-2) scheme. Last month, the subsidy on two- and three-wheelers, under FAME-2, doubled by the Centre to improve offtake after the less enthusiastic response from consumers. The EV industry is counting on these subsidies to speed up the adoption of these vehicles in the country. These measures will help bridge the gap between consumers being aware about EVs and their willingness to buy these vehicles. Sohinder Gill, Director General, Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV), a strong supporter of EVs, endorses this view.
The world is committedly moving, towards a carbon emission free and a clean alternate energy, thereby, reducing the global warming and maintain the eco-system for a healthier and safe living. India in its endeavor is to be the world leader in adopting to renewable energy is offering subsidies and incentives to corporates, manufacturing of renewable energy segment for switching over to a sustainable renewable energy. One of the segments of the renewable energy is the usage of Electric Vehicles enabling the end users to accept them and sustained use of the EVs. State Governments, through their set Policy has extended subsidies and incentives for increasing the usage of EVs and setting up of EV Industry or the Manufacturing Units. State Governments of Delhi, Maharashtra and Gujarat are following policies widely accepted by the EV Industry and accepted by the end users of EVs for its usage. Rajasthan Government on 16th, July 2021 has also announced a policy to give subsidy to increase the sale of electric vehicles (EV) in the State. As per the policy document, the state component of the goods and services tax (SGST) is being refunded to the buyers of all two and three-wheeler Electric Vehicles in Rajasthan from April 2021 to March 2022. Over and above this, buyers of electric two- and three-wheelers are given additional cash subsidies between Rs 5,000 and Rs 20,000 depending on the size of the battery equipped. The Rajasthan government is not extending any cash subsidies for electric cars or buses. The quantum of the subsidy for two- and three-wheelers also is lower than the other three states mentioned. These incentives are over and above the subsidy extended by the Centre under the phase-2 of the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric and hybrid vehicles (FAME-2) scheme. Last month, the subsidy on two- and three-wheelers, under FAME-2, doubled by the Centre to improve offtake after the less enthusiastic response from consumers. The EV industry is counting on these subsidies to speed up the adoption of these vehicles in the country. These measures will help bridge the gap between consumers being aware about EVs and their willingness to buy these vehicles. Sohinder Gill, Director General, Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV), a strong supporter of EVs, endorses this view.
India to play a leadership role in renewable energy.
India will play a leadership role in the area of renewable energy in the years to come. While addressing the valedictory session of the second edition of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat- Self-Reliance for Renewable Energy Manufacturing’, Piyush Goyal, Cabinet Minister for Textiles stated that from hydro-power in the initial stages, India is now looking at the future and have started exploring hydrogen technologies. In this regard a Hydrogen Energy Mission in 2021-22 for generating hydrogen from green power sources has been launched. He said that India has saved billions of dollars in electricity bills when the country started using LED (light-emitting diode) lights households, Street Lighting, Government Offices, Railways, and Airports to Private and Corporate sectors. The sustained use of LED lighting systems has surprisingly brought down carbon emissions by over 120 million tonne a year since 2019. To align with the on- going ecosystem Goyal has urged automobile users to go for electric cars and recharge their batteries using renewable energy or solar energy during day hours. It is also mooted that battery Charging stations be placed nearby all gas stations across the country. India’s largest public EV charging station in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra on 15.07.2021 by Magenta. The first of its kind public charging station will be functional 24*7 with 21 AC/ DC chargers for 2-wheelers, 3-wheelers and 4-wheelers. Depending on the chargers can charge a vehicle in 45 mins. For vehicles that require AC slow charging, a parking bay has been developed which allows for overnight charging as well. This shows Country’s commitment for clean energy and progress in its R&D sector. Battery technologies are going to be very important for our sustainability mission and to progress further in this segment of renewable energy, huge investment in battery technology is also being made. Besides by 2023-24, India is going to be 20% blending ethanol in petrol products with an ultimate target to run vehicles on 100% ethanol. India is now being conscious of its electricity needs being met in a more sustainable fashion & balancing the cost of electricity in such a manner that our developmental goals do not get affected. From an overall renewable energy target of 175 GW by 2022, India is now looking at 450 GW by 2030
India will play a leadership role in the area of renewable energy in the years to come. While addressing the valedictory session of the second edition of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat- Self-Reliance for Renewable Energy Manufacturing’, Piyush Goyal, Cabinet Minister for Textiles stated that from hydro-power in the initial stages, India is now looking at the future and have started exploring hydrogen technologies. In this regard a Hydrogen Energy Mission in 2021-22 for generating hydrogen from green power sources has been launched. He said that India has saved billions of dollars in electricity bills when the country started using LED (light-emitting diode) lights households, Street Lighting, Government Offices, Railways, and Airports to Private and Corporate sectors. The sustained use of LED lighting systems has surprisingly brought down carbon emissions by over 120 million tonne a year since 2019. To align with the on- going ecosystem Goyal has urged automobile users to go for electric cars and recharge their batteries using renewable energy or solar energy during day hours. It is also mooted that battery Charging stations be placed nearby all gas stations across the country. India’s largest public EV charging station in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra on 15.07.2021 by Magenta. The first of its kind public charging station will be functional 24*7 with 21 AC/ DC chargers for 2-wheelers, 3-wheelers and 4-wheelers. Depending on the chargers can charge a vehicle in 45 mins. For vehicles that require AC slow charging, a parking bay has been developed which allows for overnight charging as well. This shows Country’s commitment for clean energy and progress in its R&D sector. Battery technologies are going to be very important for our sustainability mission and to progress further in this segment of renewable energy, huge investment in battery technology is also being made. Besides by 2023-24, India is going to be 20% blending ethanol in petrol products with an ultimate target to run vehicles on 100% ethanol. India is now being conscious of its electricity needs being met in a more sustainable fashion & balancing the cost of electricity in such a manner that our developmental goals do not get affected. From an overall renewable energy target of 175 GW by 2022, India is now looking at 450 GW by 2030
Hamsa Asset Management Launches India’s first Renewable Energy Fund.
Chennai-based Hamsa Asset Management Pvt Ltd is providing its investors a hassle-free approach to invest in renewable energy projects. Hamsa is launching India’s first renewable energy Alternative Investment Fund (AIF). It is making renewable energy accessible by providing a unique opportunity to invest in India’s first Renewable Energy AIF with a target 15% Equity IRR (internal rate of return) to investors (pre-tax) over 10 years and has an impact in accelerating the deployment of solar assets across commercial and industrial sectors. It gives a time- frame for the fund length of 10 + 2 years and an investment period of 60 months from final close. It will charge a 2% management fee with a 20% carry (with catch-up) along with an IRR hurdle of 12%. The minimum investment for participation is Rs. 1 Crore. The first close is 18 months from launch with a minimum size of Rs. 20 crore while the final close is 36 months from launch with a target size of Rs. 50 crores. As for significant returns, all the available opportunities were evaluated to deliver an unleveraged project IRR greater than 16%, with an additional portfolio for an overall project IRR greater than 19%. The AIF is appropriately structured to provide annualized equity return greater than 15%. The hurdle rate has been set to 12%. Hamsa takes cover by using insurance, contracts, and other risk mitigation mechanisms to secure the investment. Renewable energy Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) is made attractive as Renewable energy offers a non-cyclical investment opportunity that are not affected by the hic-ups of the economic fluctuations. Besides Hamsa Asset Management is offering an annuity-model return to diversify investors’ portfolios.
Chennai-based Hamsa Asset Management Pvt Ltd is providing its investors a hassle-free approach to invest in renewable energy projects. Hamsa is launching India’s first renewable energy Alternative Investment Fund (AIF). It is making renewable energy accessible by providing a unique opportunity to invest in India’s first Renewable Energy AIF with a target 15% Equity IRR (internal rate of return) to investors (pre-tax) over 10 years and has an impact in accelerating the deployment of solar assets across commercial and industrial sectors. It gives a time- frame for the fund length of 10 + 2 years and an investment period of 60 months from final close. It will charge a 2% management fee with a 20% carry (with catch-up) along with an IRR hurdle of 12%. The minimum investment for participation is Rs. 1 Crore. The first close is 18 months from launch with a minimum size of Rs. 20 crore while the final close is 36 months from launch with a target size of Rs. 50 crores. As for significant returns, all the available opportunities were evaluated to deliver an unleveraged project IRR greater than 16%, with an additional portfolio for an overall project IRR greater than 19%. The AIF is appropriately structured to provide annualized equity return greater than 15%. The hurdle rate has been set to 12%. Hamsa takes cover by using insurance, contracts, and other risk mitigation mechanisms to secure the investment. Renewable energy Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) is made attractive as Renewable energy offers a non-cyclical investment opportunity that are not affected by the hic-ups of the economic fluctuations. Besides Hamsa Asset Management is offering an annuity-model return to diversify investors’ portfolios.
Indian Railway to reduce 2.5 lakh tons of carbon emission each year in North Central Railway zone.
The North Central Railway zone intends to follow the Government of India’s commitment to reduce carbon emission by 2.5 Lakh tons of carbon very year. NCR zone plans to generate 175 gigawatts of solar power by 2022. NCR zone’s 97 per cent operation area falls in Uttar Pradesh. This zone is expecting to have 297 MWp of solar power plants. The zone has three divisions, i.e. Prayagraj, Agra and Jhansi. The three divisions together plans to generate around 11MWp solar power along with its three workshops in Jhansi’s division. Prayagraj division already has 3614 KWp of solar power. It has saved Rs. 1.09 Crore in 2020-21. Agra division has 1,588 KWp capacity solar system while Jhansi has 1,204 KWp. The three workshops in Jhansi combined has 4624 KWp capacity of solar system installed on roofs. The total three divisions and three workshops helped the railway to reduce 9,000 tons of carbon emission in 2020-21 thereby saving Rs 3.96 crore. Of the current 11.03 MWp capacity system, 120 kWp has been installed by the railway, while remaining 10882.34 kWp capacity has been installed by two major private players on public private partnership at station buildings, workshops, training schools, DRM and GM offices. NCR zone is planning to generate 1.3 crore units of solar power which will save around Rs. 5 crore under its scheme Solar Mission-NCR. Railway Energy Management Company Limited (REMCL) has prepared a plan to install 297 MWp (megawatt peak) solar power plants including 1.86 MWp on roof top, 46.25 MWp on vacant lands near railway stations (around 185 acres acres) and 249 MWp on vacant lands along the railway tracks (around 1320 acres) falling under Golden Diagonal & Golden Quadrilateral of the zone. Once the 297 MWp of solar plants are installed, NCR zone will be reducing 2.5 lakh tons of carbon emission. This zone with its present infrastructure has achieved 16 % of 2.5 Lakh ton carbon emission, which comes to 3100 ton, between April to June 2021 as compared to 2700 during 2020-21 for the same quarter.
The North Central Railway zone intends to follow the Government of India’s commitment to reduce carbon emission by 2.5 Lakh tons of carbon very year. NCR zone plans to generate 175 gigawatts of solar power by 2022. NCR zone’s 97 per cent operation area falls in Uttar Pradesh. This zone is expecting to have 297 MWp of solar power plants. The zone has three divisions, i.e. Prayagraj, Agra and Jhansi. The three divisions together plans to generate around 11MWp solar power along with its three workshops in Jhansi’s division. Prayagraj division already has 3614 KWp of solar power. It has saved Rs. 1.09 Crore in 2020-21. Agra division has 1,588 KWp capacity solar system while Jhansi has 1,204 KWp. The three workshops in Jhansi combined has 4624 KWp capacity of solar system installed on roofs. The total three divisions and three workshops helped the railway to reduce 9,000 tons of carbon emission in 2020-21 thereby saving Rs 3.96 crore. Of the current 11.03 MWp capacity system, 120 kWp has been installed by the railway, while remaining 10882.34 kWp capacity has been installed by two major private players on public private partnership at station buildings, workshops, training schools, DRM and GM offices. NCR zone is planning to generate 1.3 crore units of solar power which will save around Rs. 5 crore under its scheme Solar Mission-NCR. Railway Energy Management Company Limited (REMCL) has prepared a plan to install 297 MWp (megawatt peak) solar power plants including 1.86 MWp on roof top, 46.25 MWp on vacant lands near railway stations (around 185 acres acres) and 249 MWp on vacant lands along the railway tracks (around 1320 acres) falling under Golden Diagonal & Golden Quadrilateral of the zone. Once the 297 MWp of solar plants are installed, NCR zone will be reducing 2.5 lakh tons of carbon emission. This zone with its present infrastructure has achieved 16 % of 2.5 Lakh ton carbon emission, which comes to 3100 ton, between April to June 2021 as compared to 2700 during 2020-21 for the same quarter.
Wind Farms in Brazil’s Northeast Record Peak Energy Generation.
The Brazilian Northeast wind farms generated peak energy of11, 548 MW on July 8, as per the data from the National Electric System Operator (ONS). This accounted for 99.2% of the region’s need. The solar plants also broke a previous record last month, generating 1,873 MW on June 28. ONS estimates that Brazilian wind facilities will be able to generate enough power to account for 13.2% of the country’s entire electrical mix by end-2025. According to a recent announcement, French renewable energy company Qair has signed an initial deal to build an offshore wind farm, with 1,216 MW capacity, to support green hydrogen production in the northern Brazilian state of Ceará. Brazil’s Wind power generation achieved the mark of 19 GW of installed capacity, covering 10% of the national electricity mix. As per the Brazilian Wind Energy Association (Abeeólica), there are 726 wind farms and more than 8,500 wind turbines in operation. Ten years ago, the wind power still had just over 1.5 GW of capacity and today it is the second largest, only behind hydroelectric generation. According to Abeeólica’s forecast, Brazil would be havng around 30.2 GW of installed power in 2024.
The Brazilian Northeast wind farms generated peak energy of11, 548 MW on July 8, as per the data from the National Electric System Operator (ONS). This accounted for 99.2% of the region’s need. The solar plants also broke a previous record last month, generating 1,873 MW on June 28. ONS estimates that Brazilian wind facilities will be able to generate enough power to account for 13.2% of the country’s entire electrical mix by end-2025. According to a recent announcement, French renewable energy company Qair has signed an initial deal to build an offshore wind farm, with 1,216 MW capacity, to support green hydrogen production in the northern Brazilian state of Ceará. Brazil’s Wind power generation achieved the mark of 19 GW of installed capacity, covering 10% of the national electricity mix. As per the Brazilian Wind Energy Association (Abeeólica), there are 726 wind farms and more than 8,500 wind turbines in operation. Ten years ago, the wind power still had just over 1.5 GW of capacity and today it is the second largest, only behind hydroelectric generation. According to Abeeólica’s forecast, Brazil would be havng around 30.2 GW of installed power in 2024.
CORPORATES ROLE IN ADOPTING A LOW CARBON GROWTH.
Industrialization and urbanization are two important events that had not only improved the quality of life but also negatively affected the climate. These caused immense global warming and adverse environmental disorders. Global warming increased due to uncontrolled emission of Carbon Dioxide in the atmosphere due to industrialisation. Adverse environmental disorders taking place to continuous de-forestation. The rising Carbon Dioxide, CO 2 levels, is leading to global warming. If this is not controlled, then it can adversely affect both the climate and all living beings on the planet. Unabated use of resources like energy (mainly fossil fuels) and water has created a tremendous pressure on environment. For a healthier living and to improve the quality of our lives in this planet, our environment has to be protected. This is possible only through a concerted effort by Governments, Corporates and the citizen to protect our environment. . As citizens, we have an individual responsibility to adopt a sustainable healthier life and be conscious towards our environment. Corporates also have a vital role in saving the planet and the environment. Corporates can adopt a humane approach to effectively de-link business growth from environmental impact and strive for a low carbon emission methods for a healthier future. Corporates are mandated to disclose basic environmental performance, the level of data, accuracy, and action taken by them. Reliable data helps in setting realistic goals both short-term and long-term. For instance in an IT institute a short-term goal could be reduction of per capita power or water consumption, whereas a long-term goal can be a shift to clean alternate energy for functional operations, thereby becoming a Neutral Carbon dioxide emission. Commitment by Corporates towards clean environment only will make the goals accomplished. Improving the efficiency in the operations and proper initiatives can pave the way towards low carbon operations by Corporates. Corporates willingness and commitment with a long term vision of sustainable development as it will increase business growth besides ensuring a better and healthier future for all. Renewable energy is an important step towards a low carbon emission growth. Adopting to renewables like solar and wind power has increased maniifold in the last decade owing to reducing prices and continuous advances in technology. Solar Photovoltaics is the fastest growing electricity source today globally and is expected to enable a paradigm shift in electricity generation and distribution in the future. Corporates today have a significant portion of their electricity consumption from renewables and are increasingly moving towards alternative sources of electricity for operations. Periodic assessment of the initiatives with appropriate actions and making public to emulate success stories and lead to collective action.
Industrialization and urbanization are two important events that had not only improved the quality of life but also negatively affected the climate. These caused immense global warming and adverse environmental disorders. Global warming increased due to uncontrolled emission of Carbon Dioxide in the atmosphere due to industrialisation. Adverse environmental disorders taking place to continuous de-forestation. The rising Carbon Dioxide, CO 2 levels, is leading to global warming. If this is not controlled, then it can adversely affect both the climate and all living beings on the planet. Unabated use of resources like energy (mainly fossil fuels) and water has created a tremendous pressure on environment. For a healthier living and to improve the quality of our lives in this planet, our environment has to be protected. This is possible only through a concerted effort by Governments, Corporates and the citizen to protect our environment. . As citizens, we have an individual responsibility to adopt a sustainable healthier life and be conscious towards our environment. Corporates also have a vital role in saving the planet and the environment. Corporates can adopt a humane approach to effectively de-link business growth from environmental impact and strive for a low carbon emission methods for a healthier future. Corporates are mandated to disclose basic environmental performance, the level of data, accuracy, and action taken by them. Reliable data helps in setting realistic goals both short-term and long-term. For instance in an IT institute a short-term goal could be reduction of per capita power or water consumption, whereas a long-term goal can be a shift to clean alternate energy for functional operations, thereby becoming a Neutral Carbon dioxide emission. Commitment by Corporates towards clean environment only will make the goals accomplished. Improving the efficiency in the operations and proper initiatives can pave the way towards low carbon operations by Corporates. Corporates willingness and commitment with a long term vision of sustainable development as it will increase business growth besides ensuring a better and healthier future for all. Renewable energy is an important step towards a low carbon emission growth. Adopting to renewables like solar and wind power has increased maniifold in the last decade owing to reducing prices and continuous advances in technology. Solar Photovoltaics is the fastest growing electricity source today globally and is expected to enable a paradigm shift in electricity generation and distribution in the future. Corporates today have a significant portion of their electricity consumption from renewables and are increasingly moving towards alternative sources of electricity for operations. Periodic assessment of the initiatives with appropriate actions and making public to emulate success stories and lead to collective action.
INDIA’S WIND MARKET SET TO NEARLY 50% GROWTH OVER NEXT FIVE YEARS.
India’s current wind power capacity is nearly 39 GW. India is expecting to install 20 GW of wind power capacity between 2021 and 2025, a growth of nearly 50%. This was as per a report by GWEC. Lockdowns due to COVID-19 had an adverse impact on India’s wind energy initiatives. Only 1.1 GW of wind power was installed against a seemingly achievable target of over 3 GW for 2020. Both the Center and the State are gearing up to install the 10 GW wind power that are in the pipeline. The Indian Government is now keen on raising Global Tenders for its wind power installation to meet 90 % of 10 GW. Besides the overseas developers, indigenous corporate sectors and State developers would contribute to wind power enhancement. Government has implemented the PLI Scheme with ease of business and funds attracting indigenous players and the overseas players to participate reaching a significant wind power enhancement towards a clean, affordable and sustainable wind energy. The Production Linked Incentive Scheme by the Central Government is attracting the local developers of Renewable energy, be it the Solar Power, Compressed Bio Gas, Hydrogen, Wind Power and the Electric Vehicle developers. The entire supply chain for developing the manufacture of almost all components of the above is expected to kick-off due to the ease of business under the PLI Scheme. The pace of new installations of wind power is likely to double in coming two to three years despite few of the wind power projects dropped by developers. Present Government at the Centre is keen on having a consensus and coordination between Center and the State on tapping wind power capacity besides supply chain utilization and a clear roadmap to take India to meet its decarbonisation and renewable energy goals. Wind power is playing a pivotal role in renewable energy sector. India’s present renewable energy is only 10% which is expected to grow to 30% by 2030 with wind energy, both on shore and off shore, being considered as one of the sustainable energy source in coming time.
India’s current wind power capacity is nearly 39 GW. India is expecting to install 20 GW of wind power capacity between 2021 and 2025, a growth of nearly 50%. This was as per a report by GWEC. Lockdowns due to COVID-19 had an adverse impact on India’s wind energy initiatives. Only 1.1 GW of wind power was installed against a seemingly achievable target of over 3 GW for 2020. Both the Center and the State are gearing up to install the 10 GW wind power that are in the pipeline. The Indian Government is now keen on raising Global Tenders for its wind power installation to meet 90 % of 10 GW. Besides the overseas developers, indigenous corporate sectors and State developers would contribute to wind power enhancement. Government has implemented the PLI Scheme with ease of business and funds attracting indigenous players and the overseas players to participate reaching a significant wind power enhancement towards a clean, affordable and sustainable wind energy. The Production Linked Incentive Scheme by the Central Government is attracting the local developers of Renewable energy, be it the Solar Power, Compressed Bio Gas, Hydrogen, Wind Power and the Electric Vehicle developers. The entire supply chain for developing the manufacture of almost all components of the above is expected to kick-off due to the ease of business under the PLI Scheme. The pace of new installations of wind power is likely to double in coming two to three years despite few of the wind power projects dropped by developers. Present Government at the Centre is keen on having a consensus and coordination between Center and the State on tapping wind power capacity besides supply chain utilization and a clear roadmap to take India to meet its decarbonisation and renewable energy goals. Wind power is playing a pivotal role in renewable energy sector. India’s present renewable energy is only 10% which is expected to grow to 30% by 2030 with wind energy, both on shore and off shore, being considered as one of the sustainable energy source in coming time.
SOLAR POWER BECOMING CHEAPER BY THE DAY.
For the world to transition to low-carbon electricity, energy from these sources needs to be cheaper than electricity from fossil fuels. Energy systems have very long path dependencies, since it is very costly to build a power plant or to decide to shut a power plant down. For long term benefits investments in renewable technologies is the only alternative. It took little more than twenty Years for the solar industry in reducing the cost of generating electricity direct from the sun. Now it is focusing on making panels even more powerful. The average cost of a solar panel dropped by 90% from 2010 to 2020. With the reducing costs in equipment, manufacturers are stepping up work on advances in technology in building better components and employing increasingly sophisticated designs to generate more electricity from the same-sized solar farms. While grid-sized solar farms are now typically cheaper than even the most advanced coal or gas-fired plants, additional savings will be required to pair clean energy sources with the expensive storage technology that is needed for continuous carbon-free power. However, the cost of land, construction, engineering and other equipment have not fallen in the same way as panel prices. Jenny Chase, lead solar researcher at Bloomberg NEF said that it makes sense to pay a premium for more advanced technology. Higher-powered systems are already available. Most solar panels produced a maximum of about 400 watts of electricity earlier. In early 2020, companies began selling 500-watt panels, and surprisingly at present China-based Risen Energy Co. introduced a 700-watt model. Current super-charging panels reducing the cost of generating solar power are Perovskite Perovskite promises a genuine breakthrough. Thinner and more transparent than polysilicon, the material that’s traditionally used, perovskite could eventually be layered on top of existing solar panels to boost efficiency, or be integrated with glass to make building windows that also generate power. This further contributes in lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Bi-facial Panels Solar panels typically get their power from the side that faces the sun, but can also make use of the small amount of light that reflects back off the ground. Bi-facial panels that started gaining popularity in 2019, to capture the extra increments of electricity by replacing opaque backing material with specialist glass. China loosened regulations around glass manufacturing capacity preparing the ground for more widespread adoption of the two-sided solar technology. Doped Polysilicon Another change that can deliver an increase in power is shifting from positively charged silicon material for solar panels to negatively charged, or N-type, products. N-type material is made by doping polysilicon with a small amount of an element with an extra electron like phosphorous. It’s more expensive, but can be as much as 3.5% more powerful than the material that currently dominates. The products are expected to begin taking market share in 2024 and be the dominant material by 2028, according to PV-Tech. In the solar supply chain, ultra-refined polysilicon is shaped into rectangular ingots, which are in turn sliced into ultra-thin squares known as wafers. Those wafers are wired into cells and pieced together to form solar panels. Bigger Wafers, Better Cells The standard solar wafer was a 156-millimeter (6.14 inches) square of polysilicon, about the size of the front of a CD case. Now, companies are making the squares bigger to boost efficiency and reduce manufacturing costs. Producers are pushing 182- and 210-millimeter wafers, and the larger sizes will grow from about 19% of the market share this year to more than half by 2023, according to Wood Mackenzie’s Sun. Companies that wire wafers into cells which convert electrons excited by photons of light into electricity are adding new capacity for designs like heterojunction or tunnel-oxide passivated contact cells. While more expensive to make, those structures allow the electrons to keep bouncing around for longer, increasing the amount of power they generate.
For the world to transition to low-carbon electricity, energy from these sources needs to be cheaper than electricity from fossil fuels. Energy systems have very long path dependencies, since it is very costly to build a power plant or to decide to shut a power plant down. For long term benefits investments in renewable technologies is the only alternative. It took little more than twenty Years for the solar industry in reducing the cost of generating electricity direct from the sun. Now it is focusing on making panels even more powerful. The average cost of a solar panel dropped by 90% from 2010 to 2020. With the reducing costs in equipment, manufacturers are stepping up work on advances in technology in building better components and employing increasingly sophisticated designs to generate more electricity from the same-sized solar farms. While grid-sized solar farms are now typically cheaper than even the most advanced coal or gas-fired plants, additional savings will be required to pair clean energy sources with the expensive storage technology that is needed for continuous carbon-free power. However, the cost of land, construction, engineering and other equipment have not fallen in the same way as panel prices. Jenny Chase, lead solar researcher at Bloomberg NEF said that it makes sense to pay a premium for more advanced technology. Higher-powered systems are already available. Most solar panels produced a maximum of about 400 watts of electricity earlier. In early 2020, companies began selling 500-watt panels, and surprisingly at present China-based Risen Energy Co. introduced a 700-watt model. Current super-charging panels reducing the cost of generating solar power are Perovskite Perovskite promises a genuine breakthrough. Thinner and more transparent than polysilicon, the material that’s traditionally used, perovskite could eventually be layered on top of existing solar panels to boost efficiency, or be integrated with glass to make building windows that also generate power. This further contributes in lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Bi-facial Panels Solar panels typically get their power from the side that faces the sun, but can also make use of the small amount of light that reflects back off the ground. Bi-facial panels that started gaining popularity in 2019, to capture the extra increments of electricity by replacing opaque backing material with specialist glass. China loosened regulations around glass manufacturing capacity preparing the ground for more widespread adoption of the two-sided solar technology. Doped Polysilicon Another change that can deliver an increase in power is shifting from positively charged silicon material for solar panels to negatively charged, or N-type, products. N-type material is made by doping polysilicon with a small amount of an element with an extra electron like phosphorous. It’s more expensive, but can be as much as 3.5% more powerful than the material that currently dominates. The products are expected to begin taking market share in 2024 and be the dominant material by 2028, according to PV-Tech. In the solar supply chain, ultra-refined polysilicon is shaped into rectangular ingots, which are in turn sliced into ultra-thin squares known as wafers. Those wafers are wired into cells and pieced together to form solar panels. Bigger Wafers, Better Cells The standard solar wafer was a 156-millimeter (6.14 inches) square of polysilicon, about the size of the front of a CD case. Now, companies are making the squares bigger to boost efficiency and reduce manufacturing costs. Producers are pushing 182- and 210-millimeter wafers, and the larger sizes will grow from about 19% of the market share this year to more than half by 2023, according to Wood Mackenzie’s Sun. Companies that wire wafers into cells which convert electrons excited by photons of light into electricity are adding new capacity for designs like heterojunction or tunnel-oxide passivated contact cells. While more expensive to make, those structures allow the electrons to keep bouncing around for longer, increasing the amount of power they generate.
NTPC TO INVEST OVER 2 LAKH CRORE INR ON RENEWABLE ENERGY.
NTPC, the largest power producer in the Country is planning to raise resources to fund its massive clean power play for its renewable energy subsidiary unit NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd. in the next fiscal year. This big power generator will be investing close to Rs 2 lakh crore to Rs 2.5 lakh crore over the next decade on expanding renewable capacity also aimed at boosting equity support, a major part of funds expected to come from the market through public offer. NTPC recently doubled its renewable power capacity addition target from 30,000 to 60,000 MW 2032. It aims to have a thermal-renewable mix of 50:50 over next decade. Current try the company has about 1500 MW of renewable capacity with another about 3,500 MW under construction. NTPC will also cut net traditional energy consumption by 10 per cent. In this regard, the actual plan is to add 7,000-8,000 MW of renewable capacity every year. The equity needs for renewable expansion is expected at around Rs 50,000 crore while the balance investment would come from loan and bond issues. A large portion of the equity would be raised through market plan for listing renewable subsidiary is already planned. NTPC incorporated a wholly-owned subsidiary for its renewable energy business in the name of NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd only in last year in October
NTPC, the largest power producer in the Country is planning to raise resources to fund its massive clean power play for its renewable energy subsidiary unit NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd. in the next fiscal year. This big power generator will be investing close to Rs 2 lakh crore to Rs 2.5 lakh crore over the next decade on expanding renewable capacity also aimed at boosting equity support, a major part of funds expected to come from the market through public offer. NTPC recently doubled its renewable power capacity addition target from 30,000 to 60,000 MW 2032. It aims to have a thermal-renewable mix of 50:50 over next decade. Current try the company has about 1500 MW of renewable capacity with another about 3,500 MW under construction. NTPC will also cut net traditional energy consumption by 10 per cent. In this regard, the actual plan is to add 7,000-8,000 MW of renewable capacity every year. The equity needs for renewable expansion is expected at around Rs 50,000 crore while the balance investment would come from loan and bond issues. A large portion of the equity would be raised through market plan for listing renewable subsidiary is already planned. NTPC incorporated a wholly-owned subsidiary for its renewable energy business in the name of NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd only in last year in October
HURDLES ON SOLAR, ETHANOL AND COMPRESSED BIO GAS INITIATIVES BY INDIA.
India’s three big initiatives on solar, ethanol and Compressed Bio Gas play a key role for the country’s progress on climate goals. Solar and Ethanol are on track. However CBG is behind its targets. More attention and planning is still to be done to ensure a smooth roadmap for these three initiatives. It is a matter of concern as to India steps forward about achieving climate goals by 2030. Besides the impact, it intends to create on global warming, the steps India decisively takes on to shift the country from the current energy pathways. The world is forced to reconsider targets set for 2050. Due to constant developments in solar, wind and storage, many countries will achieve their goals by 2030 despite the huge usage of coal and thermal power even in the west. India’s performance, outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, based on the estimated present reduction of emissions by 21% of 2005 levels is on track, as of now. Even the Emissions Gap Report 2020 of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) includes India among nine G20 members who are on track to achieve their unconditional commitments under the Paris pact, based on pre COVID-19 projections. These targets are based primarily on twin pillars of renewable energy and expanding our forest cover to act as a carbon reduction to 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes by 2030. Still challenges are expected. As the country seeks to kick start a massive effort to industrialise, urbanisation picking speed, agricultural land continues to command a premium to feed a vast population. This results in higher energy needs. As a result, targets of expanding forest cover will be a tough task to reach. Therefor a careful study on the Demand projections, India’s response thereof on Solar Power, Compressed Bio Gas, Ethanol and the initiatives taken on these is the necessity of the hour. On Demand Projections, According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), India’s energy use has doubled since 2000, most of that demand met by coal and oil. IEA predicts primary energy consumption almost doubling to 1,123 million tonnes of oil equivalent as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expands to USD 8.6 trillion by 2040. By 2030, India will be the third most consumer of energy worldwide overtaking the European Union. With India’s imports accounting for 84 percent of its current oil consumption for fuels and related sectors, going for greener energy and alternatives for clean environment is the better option. Necessary for strong economic case. In this regard, India is responding to the challenge with a mix of strategies. Solar power is at top of the priority list with wind energy following closely. India is competing with thermal power for share of contribution to the national power mix. Secondly, the two multi-billion dollar initiatives, that seek to reduce the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and its import bill, but also achieve multiple objectives. The Ethanol blending targets for 2025 and the Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) initiative to have 5000 CBG plants by 2025. Track progress on these three shows India’s overall progress towards its climate goals. On Solar Power, according to the Ministry of New And Renewable Energy (MNRE), India’s solar capacity at the end of May 2021 was at 41.09 GW, with Wind Energy at 39.44 GW. The report adds that 50.89 GW of projects are under implementation, while 29.52 GW are under bidding process. Many projects under implementation are suffering from delays. India is very close to the 160 GW that was the original solar+wind target for 2022 is. This however appears not going to be met. This is due slow progress in the rooftop solar category among other issues, where, India achieved barely 6GW against a target of 40 GW. One reason is our policy on protecting and encouraging domestic manufacturing. Weeding inefficiencies in the existing power purchase environment, which has forced discoms to try and beat down solar prices beyond levels that would have been considered impossibly low when solar targets were set. On Compressed Bio Gas (CBG), , the government has set a very ambitious target of 5000 CBG pants by 2025, entailing an investment of 200,000 crores, or Rs 40 crores per plant. To produce 15 MTA of the gas, which is about 40 percent of current CNG consumption, generating direct employment for 75,000 people and producing 50 million tonnes of bio-manure. Being equivalent to CNG, where we already have a well developed ecosystem and infrastructure, CBG integration is likely to be the easiest to manage. A huge bonus from an optics perspective on CBG is that it can also use up residues that are otherwise burnt, and cause very visible air pollution. CBG, though similar to CNG, offers better calorific value and can be used as green fuel in automotive, industrial and commercial sectors. Procurement price of Rs 46 per unit till 2024, along with a buying commitment for 10 years, it has a lot going for it. All of this is under the National Biofuels Policy 2018 and Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) initiative. On Ethanol, to cut down imports of fossil fuels, and to provide a remunerative option for farmers from agricultural residues, especially sugarcane. Ethanol, when used as a blend with petrol cuts down pollution, since it does not release any carbon. The current blending level for ethanol in India has crossed 7.4%. The new target is expected to create a demand of additional 10 billion litres of ethanol per annum. On a current production base of 4 billion litres. In a key move to encourage ethanol production, permissible feedstock options have been expanded by adding starchy feedstocks to the list in the form of surplus grains. That means, states like Bihar and Chhattisgarh have introduced state specific ethanol production policies to attract investments. That is welcome in a situation where just three states, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka were looking set to dominate ethanol production. Already, the OMC’s have shifted from trying to build massive 2G ethanol plants to 1G plants, which are much more low cost to build. 1Gs plants are optimised to use sugarcane residues better, while 2G plants can use cellulose and hemicelluloses. These are found in feedstocks such as wheat straw, corn, wood, agricultural residues and municipal solid waste. This extra flexibility comes at a much higher cost though. Oil firm officials inform us that the cost for a 1G plant are around Rs 120 crores for a 5000 litre per day capacity. As opposed to that, a 2G plant can cost over Rs 1000 crores to set up, distorting the reward-returns matric significantly. In conclusion these three initiatives, as a proxy for India’s progress on its key climate goals. . All three are linked deeply to sectors that are decisive to ensure India moves ahead. All three make their own case for support, and offer benefits that go beyond just cost savings, import substitution, or a cleaner environment. Ethanol and CBG impact primarily on the transportation sector. Hence the need for planning alternative uses for these fuels in power plants or otherwise with stronger Policy and direction.
India’s three big initiatives on solar, ethanol and Compressed Bio Gas play a key role for the country’s progress on climate goals. Solar and Ethanol are on track. However CBG is behind its targets. More attention and planning is still to be done to ensure a smooth roadmap for these three initiatives. It is a matter of concern as to India steps forward about achieving climate goals by 2030. Besides the impact, it intends to create on global warming, the steps India decisively takes on to shift the country from the current energy pathways. The world is forced to reconsider targets set for 2050. Due to constant developments in solar, wind and storage, many countries will achieve their goals by 2030 despite the huge usage of coal and thermal power even in the west. India’s performance, outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, based on the estimated present reduction of emissions by 21% of 2005 levels is on track, as of now. Even the Emissions Gap Report 2020 of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) includes India among nine G20 members who are on track to achieve their unconditional commitments under the Paris pact, based on pre COVID-19 projections. These targets are based primarily on twin pillars of renewable energy and expanding our forest cover to act as a carbon reduction to 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes by 2030. Still challenges are expected. As the country seeks to kick start a massive effort to industrialise, urbanisation picking speed, agricultural land continues to command a premium to feed a vast population. This results in higher energy needs. As a result, targets of expanding forest cover will be a tough task to reach. Therefor a careful study on the Demand projections, India’s response thereof on Solar Power, Compressed Bio Gas, Ethanol and the initiatives taken on these is the necessity of the hour. On Demand Projections, According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), India’s energy use has doubled since 2000, most of that demand met by coal and oil. IEA predicts primary energy consumption almost doubling to 1,123 million tonnes of oil equivalent as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expands to USD 8.6 trillion by 2040. By 2030, India will be the third most consumer of energy worldwide overtaking the European Union. With India’s imports accounting for 84 percent of its current oil consumption for fuels and related sectors, going for greener energy and alternatives for clean environment is the better option. Necessary for strong economic case. In this regard, India is responding to the challenge with a mix of strategies. Solar power is at top of the priority list with wind energy following closely. India is competing with thermal power for share of contribution to the national power mix. Secondly, the two multi-billion dollar initiatives, that seek to reduce the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and its import bill, but also achieve multiple objectives. The Ethanol blending targets for 2025 and the Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) initiative to have 5000 CBG plants by 2025. Track progress on these three shows India’s overall progress towards its climate goals. On Solar Power, according to the Ministry of New And Renewable Energy (MNRE), India’s solar capacity at the end of May 2021 was at 41.09 GW, with Wind Energy at 39.44 GW. The report adds that 50.89 GW of projects are under implementation, while 29.52 GW are under bidding process. Many projects under implementation are suffering from delays. India is very close to the 160 GW that was the original solar+wind target for 2022 is. This however appears not going to be met. This is due slow progress in the rooftop solar category among other issues, where, India achieved barely 6GW against a target of 40 GW. One reason is our policy on protecting and encouraging domestic manufacturing. Weeding inefficiencies in the existing power purchase environment, which has forced discoms to try and beat down solar prices beyond levels that would have been considered impossibly low when solar targets were set. On Compressed Bio Gas (CBG), , the government has set a very ambitious target of 5000 CBG pants by 2025, entailing an investment of 200,000 crores, or Rs 40 crores per plant. To produce 15 MTA of the gas, which is about 40 percent of current CNG consumption, generating direct employment for 75,000 people and producing 50 million tonnes of bio-manure. Being equivalent to CNG, where we already have a well developed ecosystem and infrastructure, CBG integration is likely to be the easiest to manage. A huge bonus from an optics perspective on CBG is that it can also use up residues that are otherwise burnt, and cause very visible air pollution. CBG, though similar to CNG, offers better calorific value and can be used as green fuel in automotive, industrial and commercial sectors. Procurement price of Rs 46 per unit till 2024, along with a buying commitment for 10 years, it has a lot going for it. All of this is under the National Biofuels Policy 2018 and Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) initiative. On Ethanol, to cut down imports of fossil fuels, and to provide a remunerative option for farmers from agricultural residues, especially sugarcane. Ethanol, when used as a blend with petrol cuts down pollution, since it does not release any carbon. The current blending level for ethanol in India has crossed 7.4%. The new target is expected to create a demand of additional 10 billion litres of ethanol per annum. On a current production base of 4 billion litres. In a key move to encourage ethanol production, permissible feedstock options have been expanded by adding starchy feedstocks to the list in the form of surplus grains. That means, states like Bihar and Chhattisgarh have introduced state specific ethanol production policies to attract investments. That is welcome in a situation where just three states, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka were looking set to dominate ethanol production. Already, the OMC’s have shifted from trying to build massive 2G ethanol plants to 1G plants, which are much more low cost to build. 1Gs plants are optimised to use sugarcane residues better, while 2G plants can use cellulose and hemicelluloses. These are found in feedstocks such as wheat straw, corn, wood, agricultural residues and municipal solid waste. This extra flexibility comes at a much higher cost though. Oil firm officials inform us that the cost for a 1G plant are around Rs 120 crores for a 5000 litre per day capacity. As opposed to that, a 2G plant can cost over Rs 1000 crores to set up, distorting the reward-returns matric significantly. In conclusion these three initiatives, as a proxy for India’s progress on its key climate goals. . All three are linked deeply to sectors that are decisive to ensure India moves ahead. All three make their own case for support, and offer benefits that go beyond just cost savings, import substitution, or a cleaner environment. Ethanol and CBG impact primarily on the transportation sector. Hence the need for planning alternative uses for these fuels in power plants or otherwise with stronger Policy and direction.
India Just Transition Centre (IJTC) Launched.
Close to UN climate summit named COP 26, to be held during coming November, New Delhi-based International Forum for Environment, Sustainability and Technology (iFOREST) on 29th June 2021launched India Just Transition Centre (IJTC). The inaugural virtual session was attended, among others, by MPs Jairam Ramesh and Jayant Sinha and Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Coal, Vinod Kumar Tewari. Mr. Ramesh talked on the need to create independent research capacity that would be the base for advocacy and eventually a larger policy change. The IJTC will have an important role in creating this capacity and bringing the expertise together. The 2015 Paris Agreement has made just transition an important part of the climate change agenda. Just transition has been gaining momentum worldwide. Developed countries are building capacity and knowledge on how to implement a just energy transition roadmap to meet net-zero targets. Jayant Sinha, from the Hazaribagh, constituency, which is a key coal district of Jharkhand, emphasised the need to start planning for a just transition in coal mining areas. He said concrete planning must be made for Phasing out coal over the next two to three decades to meet climate goals. He was confident that the IJTC here will play an important role in bridging the gap between state and national policy and the ground realities. The IJTC will be a platform to bring stakeholders together to work on various aspects of just transition in India. The IJTC will provide thought leadership, support policies and planning, provide technical support, promote best practices, and build capacity of various stakeholders. The IJTC is planning to launch a resource centre for just transition in the coming months. Long term commitment to work on a just energy transition are being made. Coal India Limited (CIL) has also started investing in renewable energy. In April, the company had announced establishing two wholly-owned subsidiaries — CIL Solar PV and CIL Navikarniya Urja Ltd — for undertaking solar PV manufacturing and renewable energy projects. India faces major challenges of just transition as three-fourth of the country’s primary energy need is still being met by fossil fuels. At least 20 million workers, a large majority of them being informal, are dependent on fossil fuel and related sectors. The new report of iFOREST, ‘Five Rs: A cross-sectoral landscape of Just Transition in India’, brings out the urgent need to start planning a just transition in certain key sectors like coal mining, thermal power and automobile. It highlights 60 districts, many of them in states like Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Gujarat, where industrial restructuring will be required to avoid social and economic disruptions due to ongoing energy transition.
Close to UN climate summit named COP 26, to be held during coming November, New Delhi-based International Forum for Environment, Sustainability and Technology (iFOREST) on 29th June 2021launched India Just Transition Centre (IJTC). The inaugural virtual session was attended, among others, by MPs Jairam Ramesh and Jayant Sinha and Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Coal, Vinod Kumar Tewari. Mr. Ramesh talked on the need to create independent research capacity that would be the base for advocacy and eventually a larger policy change. The IJTC will have an important role in creating this capacity and bringing the expertise together. The 2015 Paris Agreement has made just transition an important part of the climate change agenda. Just transition has been gaining momentum worldwide. Developed countries are building capacity and knowledge on how to implement a just energy transition roadmap to meet net-zero targets. Jayant Sinha, from the Hazaribagh, constituency, which is a key coal district of Jharkhand, emphasised the need to start planning for a just transition in coal mining areas. He said concrete planning must be made for Phasing out coal over the next two to three decades to meet climate goals. He was confident that the IJTC here will play an important role in bridging the gap between state and national policy and the ground realities. The IJTC will be a platform to bring stakeholders together to work on various aspects of just transition in India. The IJTC will provide thought leadership, support policies and planning, provide technical support, promote best practices, and build capacity of various stakeholders. The IJTC is planning to launch a resource centre for just transition in the coming months. Long term commitment to work on a just energy transition are being made. Coal India Limited (CIL) has also started investing in renewable energy. In April, the company had announced establishing two wholly-owned subsidiaries — CIL Solar PV and CIL Navikarniya Urja Ltd — for undertaking solar PV manufacturing and renewable energy projects. India faces major challenges of just transition as three-fourth of the country’s primary energy need is still being met by fossil fuels. At least 20 million workers, a large majority of them being informal, are dependent on fossil fuel and related sectors. The new report of iFOREST, ‘Five Rs: A cross-sectoral landscape of Just Transition in India’, brings out the urgent need to start planning a just transition in certain key sectors like coal mining, thermal power and automobile. It highlights 60 districts, many of them in states like Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Gujarat, where industrial restructuring will be required to avoid social and economic disruptions due to ongoing energy transition.
Global leaders’ commitment to accelerate transition to clean energy by 2030.
Energy access and the recommendations are part of a proposed global roadmap with concrete actions to achieve clean, affordable energy for all by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050 launched by the United Nations. This sets the groundwork for a large-scale mobilisation of commitments this year. National and city governments, foundations and businesses started announcing significant commitments in the form of energy compacts, pushing the action towards a high-level dialogue on energy, a summit that is being convened by the UN in September 2021. Delegates at the five-day UN ministerial meeting which concluded here on Friday, i.e. 25.06.2021 expressed Annual investments of 35 billion dollars can bring electricity access for 759 million people who currently lack it and 25 billion dollars a year can help 2.6 billion people gain access to clean cooking between now and 2030. This investment is however is only a small fraction of the multi-trillion-dollar global energy investment needed overall, which ultimately bring huge benefits to one-third of the world’s population. This is possible more commitment and concrete action at this year’s high-level dialogue on energy to get where we need to be by 2030. Reports submitted by five technical working groups that have brought together over 160 experts since March 2021 will be the road map to the transition to clean energy. The five focus areas are energy access, energy transition, enabling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through inclusive, just energy transitions; innovation, technology and data; and finance and investment. The proposed roadmap suggests that the energy transition must become a transformational effort, a system overhaul to achieve the SDGs and Paris Agreement targets. From the current 2800 GW to reach 8,000 GW of renewables by 2030 proper scale up is recommended and also to increase the average annual rate of energy efficiency improvement from the current 0.8 to 3 per cent. By 2025, 100 countries should establish targets for 100 per cent renewable-based power, with no new coal plants globally. The share of fossil fuels in the global mix will thence fall from the current 60 per cent to 30 per cent by 2030. The proposed roadmap also calls for countries to phase out coal by 2030 in wealthier countries that are members of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). By 2050, 92 per cent of power will come from renewable technologies. Affordable clean energy access for all is the foundation for achieving a global energy transition that is fast and fair.
Energy access and the recommendations are part of a proposed global roadmap with concrete actions to achieve clean, affordable energy for all by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050 launched by the United Nations. This sets the groundwork for a large-scale mobilisation of commitments this year. National and city governments, foundations and businesses started announcing significant commitments in the form of energy compacts, pushing the action towards a high-level dialogue on energy, a summit that is being convened by the UN in September 2021. Delegates at the five-day UN ministerial meeting which concluded here on Friday, i.e. 25.06.2021 expressed Annual investments of 35 billion dollars can bring electricity access for 759 million people who currently lack it and 25 billion dollars a year can help 2.6 billion people gain access to clean cooking between now and 2030. This investment is however is only a small fraction of the multi-trillion-dollar global energy investment needed overall, which ultimately bring huge benefits to one-third of the world’s population. This is possible more commitment and concrete action at this year’s high-level dialogue on energy to get where we need to be by 2030. Reports submitted by five technical working groups that have brought together over 160 experts since March 2021 will be the road map to the transition to clean energy. The five focus areas are energy access, energy transition, enabling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through inclusive, just energy transitions; innovation, technology and data; and finance and investment. The proposed roadmap suggests that the energy transition must become a transformational effort, a system overhaul to achieve the SDGs and Paris Agreement targets. From the current 2800 GW to reach 8,000 GW of renewables by 2030 proper scale up is recommended and also to increase the average annual rate of energy efficiency improvement from the current 0.8 to 3 per cent. By 2025, 100 countries should establish targets for 100 per cent renewable-based power, with no new coal plants globally. The share of fossil fuels in the global mix will thence fall from the current 60 per cent to 30 per cent by 2030. The proposed roadmap also calls for countries to phase out coal by 2030 in wealthier countries that are members of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). By 2050, 92 per cent of power will come from renewable technologies. Affordable clean energy access for all is the foundation for achieving a global energy transition that is fast and fair.
India gets USD 70 billion investment Renewable energy sector in 7 years.
The Union Power Minister R K Singh has said that as much as USD 70 billion (about Rs 5.2 lakh crore) has been invested in renewable energy across the country in the past seven years. This is significant in India’s march to ambitious target of having 175 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy by 2022. This was expressed at a virtual event on ‘Accelerating Citizen Centric Energy Transition’ yesterday evening, organised by The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) held during June21-25 for the UN High Level Dialogue on Energy to be convened on September 20 this year. India has been designated a Global Champion for Energy Transition. Singh said, India has a liberal foreign investment policy for renewables allowing 100 per cent FDI through the automatic route in sector. He added that ensuring ‘ease of doing business’ is the government’s utmost priority and maintaining sanctity of contracts and safeguarding investments. Dedicated project development cells (PDC) and foreign direct investment (FDI) cells in all ministries for handholding and facilitating domestic and foreign investors are being established. Adequate measures and safeguards have also been undertaken to address the concerns of businesses and investors arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic, Singh expressed. He launched a booklet on ‘The India Story’, a compilation of Indian initiatives that are shaping India’s energy transition. The minister the booklet captures the essence of some of the flagship initiatives that have accelerated energy transition. He said that these would continue to power India’s ambitious renewable energy programmes, besides ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all, always keeping the citizen at the center of this transition. He also launched a website (www.energytransition.in), which will act as a repository of energy transition related knowledge resources from around the world. A Renewable Energy Investment Promotion and Facilitation Board (REIPFB) portal has also been developed to provide a one-stop assistance and facilitation to the industry and investors for development of projects and bringing new investment to the renewable energy sector in India. The commitment shown by the Indian industry to India’s energy transition plans was also highly spoken. Many players are also preparing substantive energy compacts for the September Dialogue. Singh said rules are being framed for ‘green tariff’ policy that will pave the way for future of energy transition in India. The policy will help electricity distribution companies (discoms) supply electricity generated from clean energy projects at a cheaper rate compared to power from conventional fuel sources. In addition to that, the government is promoting Green Hydrogen with obligations for Fertilisers and Refining industries (Green Hydrogen Purchase obligations). Singh said that in the past six years, India’s installed renewable energy capacity has increased by over two-and-a-half times standing at more than 141 gigawatts (including large hydro), which is about 37 per cent of the country’s total capacity (as on June 16, 2021). During the same period, the installed solar energy capacity has increased over 15 times and stands at 41.09 GW. India’s renewable energy capacity is the fourth largest in the world.
The Union Power Minister R K Singh has said that as much as USD 70 billion (about Rs 5.2 lakh crore) has been invested in renewable energy across the country in the past seven years. This is significant in India’s march to ambitious target of having 175 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy by 2022. This was expressed at a virtual event on ‘Accelerating Citizen Centric Energy Transition’ yesterday evening, organised by The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) held during June21-25 for the UN High Level Dialogue on Energy to be convened on September 20 this year. India has been designated a Global Champion for Energy Transition. Singh said, India has a liberal foreign investment policy for renewables allowing 100 per cent FDI through the automatic route in sector. He added that ensuring ‘ease of doing business’ is the government’s utmost priority and maintaining sanctity of contracts and safeguarding investments. Dedicated project development cells (PDC) and foreign direct investment (FDI) cells in all ministries for handholding and facilitating domestic and foreign investors are being established. Adequate measures and safeguards have also been undertaken to address the concerns of businesses and investors arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic, Singh expressed. He launched a booklet on ‘The India Story’, a compilation of Indian initiatives that are shaping India’s energy transition. The minister the booklet captures the essence of some of the flagship initiatives that have accelerated energy transition. He said that these would continue to power India’s ambitious renewable energy programmes, besides ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all, always keeping the citizen at the center of this transition. He also launched a website (www.energytransition.in), which will act as a repository of energy transition related knowledge resources from around the world. A Renewable Energy Investment Promotion and Facilitation Board (REIPFB) portal has also been developed to provide a one-stop assistance and facilitation to the industry and investors for development of projects and bringing new investment to the renewable energy sector in India. The commitment shown by the Indian industry to India’s energy transition plans was also highly spoken. Many players are also preparing substantive energy compacts for the September Dialogue. Singh said rules are being framed for ‘green tariff’ policy that will pave the way for future of energy transition in India. The policy will help electricity distribution companies (discoms) supply electricity generated from clean energy projects at a cheaper rate compared to power from conventional fuel sources. In addition to that, the government is promoting Green Hydrogen with obligations for Fertilisers and Refining industries (Green Hydrogen Purchase obligations). Singh said that in the past six years, India’s installed renewable energy capacity has increased by over two-and-a-half times standing at more than 141 gigawatts (including large hydro), which is about 37 per cent of the country’s total capacity (as on June 16, 2021). During the same period, the installed solar energy capacity has increased over 15 times and stands at 41.09 GW. India’s renewable energy capacity is the fourth largest in the world.
GUJARAT EV POLICY-2021.
Maharashtra has released its draft new electric vehicle (EV) Policy recently. No sooner Gujarat followed with its EV Policy. Mr. Vijay Rupani, chief minister of Gujarat released the Gujarat EV Policy 2021 through a live press conference. CM Rupani stressing on clean and better environment expressed that the EV Policy will be a better contributing factor for a better climate. He also expressed that the State by 2025 will have more than two lakhs of EVs. . The CM announced plans to make Gujarat a hub for manufacturing EVs and it’s ancillaries and encourage young startups and investors in the field of electric vehicles. He is confident of the Stae becoming a hub for EVs as it has with one of the best infra availability in the country. According to the new policy, the state will be providing subsidy. State is mooting to double the amount of subsidies in any other States for EVs on per kilowatt basis over four years. Gujarat will provide up to Rs 20,000 subsidy on electric two-wheelers, 50 thousand for three-wheelers, and up to 1.5 lakh for four-wheelers. Also, the subsidy amount will be directly credited to bank accounts through DBT (Direct Bank Transfer). Under the new EV Policy, CM announced the installation of 250 additional EV charging stations and provided a 25 percent capital subsidy with a limit of Rs. 10 lakh for charging stations. Petrol pumps along with housing and commercial infrastructures will be approved for establishing /installing EV charging stations. Under the new EV policy, registration fee for the EVs will be exempted for over four years. Gujarat government will encourage and give subsidies on EV purchases.
Maharashtra has released its draft new electric vehicle (EV) Policy recently. No sooner Gujarat followed with its EV Policy. Mr. Vijay Rupani, chief minister of Gujarat released the Gujarat EV Policy 2021 through a live press conference. CM Rupani stressing on clean and better environment expressed that the EV Policy will be a better contributing factor for a better climate. He also expressed that the State by 2025 will have more than two lakhs of EVs. . The CM announced plans to make Gujarat a hub for manufacturing EVs and it’s ancillaries and encourage young startups and investors in the field of electric vehicles. He is confident of the Stae becoming a hub for EVs as it has with one of the best infra availability in the country. According to the new policy, the state will be providing subsidy. State is mooting to double the amount of subsidies in any other States for EVs on per kilowatt basis over four years. Gujarat will provide up to Rs 20,000 subsidy on electric two-wheelers, 50 thousand for three-wheelers, and up to 1.5 lakh for four-wheelers. Also, the subsidy amount will be directly credited to bank accounts through DBT (Direct Bank Transfer). Under the new EV Policy, CM announced the installation of 250 additional EV charging stations and provided a 25 percent capital subsidy with a limit of Rs. 10 lakh for charging stations. Petrol pumps along with housing and commercial infrastructures will be approved for establishing /installing EV charging stations. Under the new EV policy, registration fee for the EVs will be exempted for over four years. Gujarat government will encourage and give subsidies on EV purchases.
Rules on Green Tariff.
Mr. R.K. Singh, Minister of State (I/C) for Ministry of Power and MNRE and Minister of State for Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, during a virtual press conference at the UN High Level Dialogue on Energy 2021 on a theme India’s role as a Global Champion for the Energy Transition expressed that the plan to have customs duties from April 22 stays on track. He added that as per reports received by his ministry, by March 2022, almost 17 GW of fresh solar (module) manufacturing capacity units will be created. It is expected to touch 27 GW by December 2022. Here the breakup between cell and modules is estimated at least 20-25% share for cell manufacturing. Mr Singh also highlighted that India is on track to meet its renewable energy commitments despite setbacks from the pandemic. He also said that India would cross its targets for 2030. The 450 GW target from the planned 821 GW of total generation capacity, India will be achieving 54%. As for the role of States supporting Governments moves besides following national goals, Mr. Singh pointed out that the electricity amendment bill (2021) has been designed to take care of multiple issues that have plagued the sector, be it honoring contracts, to enforcement of contracts, and meeting RPO (Renewable purchase obligations) that would drive uptake. To strengthen the energy transition, he started a green hydrogen use obligation, rules on green tariffs for end user or the consumer, and even a mandate to ensure that open access applications involving RE are approved within 15 days. On storage of Ren Energy and continuous availability of Energy to the end user, he also expressed optimism in establishing storage facility at reduced cost of storage not to burden the end user. A survey had pointed that the total storage potential in the country at present is 96 GW. The Minister expressed that his ministry is exploring find ways to Storage front as he accepts the vital role storage in making the grids being more stable in going forward.
Mr. R.K. Singh, Minister of State (I/C) for Ministry of Power and MNRE and Minister of State for Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, during a virtual press conference at the UN High Level Dialogue on Energy 2021 on a theme India’s role as a Global Champion for the Energy Transition expressed that the plan to have customs duties from April 22 stays on track. He added that as per reports received by his ministry, by March 2022, almost 17 GW of fresh solar (module) manufacturing capacity units will be created. It is expected to touch 27 GW by December 2022. Here the breakup between cell and modules is estimated at least 20-25% share for cell manufacturing. Mr Singh also highlighted that India is on track to meet its renewable energy commitments despite setbacks from the pandemic. He also said that India would cross its targets for 2030. The 450 GW target from the planned 821 GW of total generation capacity, India will be achieving 54%. As for the role of States supporting Governments moves besides following national goals, Mr. Singh pointed out that the electricity amendment bill (2021) has been designed to take care of multiple issues that have plagued the sector, be it honoring contracts, to enforcement of contracts, and meeting RPO (Renewable purchase obligations) that would drive uptake. To strengthen the energy transition, he started a green hydrogen use obligation, rules on green tariffs for end user or the consumer, and even a mandate to ensure that open access applications involving RE are approved within 15 days. On storage of Ren Energy and continuous availability of Energy to the end user, he also expressed optimism in establishing storage facility at reduced cost of storage not to burden the end user. A survey had pointed that the total storage potential in the country at present is 96 GW. The Minister expressed that his ministry is exploring find ways to Storage front as he accepts the vital role storage in making the grids being more stable in going forward.
Pace of Renewables Effective use to grow by 5 to 7 Times by 2030/
The Energy Transitions Commission (ETC) released a new report on the feasibility of achieving a net-zero greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) economy by 2050 and the actions required in the next decade to achieve this target. The report points out why it is not only essential but also feasible and affordable to multiply the size of the global power system five folds while shifting to renewable-based electricity provision. The Paris climate accord committed the world to limiting global warming to not more than a 1.5°C rise in the Earth’s average temperature. To reach this objective , the report states that the world needs to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The ETC foresees that achieving a net-zero GHG emissions economy within the next 30 years is technically and economically feasible. Electricity could represent up to 70 percent of final energy demand by 2050, versus 20 percent today, with total electricity use expected to grow as much as 5 times in the coming decades. Transitioning to clean electricity as the main source of final energy represents the cheapest and most efficient way to de-carbonise the economy. The rapidly falling costs of renewables and storage solutions make it possible to achieve the required massive expansion of clean power systems at low cost. Here the wind and solar energy tapping must increase from today’s 10 percent of total electricity generation to about 40 percent by 2030, and over 75 percent by 2050. Annual wind and solar installations must therefore grow by 5 to 7 times by 2030, and more by 2050. This must also be supplemented by the parallel implementation of other zero-carbon generation technologies (like hydro and nuclear), flexibility solutions, storage and power networks to deliver zero-carbon power systems at scale. The report states that this is reachable if clear national strategies for decarbonisation are put in place and appropriate power market design with proper support from private financial Institutions. Investments in renewable power, mainly wind and solar, will represent, in future, the vast majority (around 80 percent) of total investments required to achieve a net zero economy. Over USD 80 trillion of investment will be required globally over the next 30 years (ca. USD 2.5 trillion per annum on an average). This includes investment in renewable generation to support both direct and indirect electrification, in addition to investment in electricity grid infrastructure. This represents less than 1.5 percent of global GDP and is found manageable in the current macroeconomic environment. With regards to power, the ETC recommends that developed countries should achieve grid emissions intensity below 30gCO2/kWh by the mid-2030s and developing countries by the mid-2040s. A few key members of the ETC include Arcelor Mittal, Bank of America, BP, Development Research Center of the State Council of China, EBRD, HSBC, Iberdrola, Ørsted, Shell, Longi Solar, Tata Group, Volvo Group and the World Resources Institute among others.
The Energy Transitions Commission (ETC) released a new report on the feasibility of achieving a net-zero greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) economy by 2050 and the actions required in the next decade to achieve this target. The report points out why it is not only essential but also feasible and affordable to multiply the size of the global power system five folds while shifting to renewable-based electricity provision. The Paris climate accord committed the world to limiting global warming to not more than a 1.5°C rise in the Earth’s average temperature. To reach this objective , the report states that the world needs to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The ETC foresees that achieving a net-zero GHG emissions economy within the next 30 years is technically and economically feasible. Electricity could represent up to 70 percent of final energy demand by 2050, versus 20 percent today, with total electricity use expected to grow as much as 5 times in the coming decades. Transitioning to clean electricity as the main source of final energy represents the cheapest and most efficient way to de-carbonise the economy. The rapidly falling costs of renewables and storage solutions make it possible to achieve the required massive expansion of clean power systems at low cost. Here the wind and solar energy tapping must increase from today’s 10 percent of total electricity generation to about 40 percent by 2030, and over 75 percent by 2050. Annual wind and solar installations must therefore grow by 5 to 7 times by 2030, and more by 2050. This must also be supplemented by the parallel implementation of other zero-carbon generation technologies (like hydro and nuclear), flexibility solutions, storage and power networks to deliver zero-carbon power systems at scale. The report states that this is reachable if clear national strategies for decarbonisation are put in place and appropriate power market design with proper support from private financial Institutions. Investments in renewable power, mainly wind and solar, will represent, in future, the vast majority (around 80 percent) of total investments required to achieve a net zero economy. Over USD 80 trillion of investment will be required globally over the next 30 years (ca. USD 2.5 trillion per annum on an average). This includes investment in renewable generation to support both direct and indirect electrification, in addition to investment in electricity grid infrastructure. This represents less than 1.5 percent of global GDP and is found manageable in the current macroeconomic environment. With regards to power, the ETC recommends that developed countries should achieve grid emissions intensity below 30gCO2/kWh by the mid-2030s and developing countries by the mid-2040s. A few key members of the ETC include Arcelor Mittal, Bank of America, BP, Development Research Center of the State Council of China, EBRD, HSBC, Iberdrola, Ørsted, Shell, Longi Solar, Tata Group, Volvo Group and the World Resources Institute among others.
Wind energy industry set to create 3.3 million jobs globally by 2025.
The global wind energy industry is set to grow at a 4 per cent Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) through 2025, with additional 470 Gigawatt (GW) of capacity creation. It is expected that due to capacity creation would create over and above 33 Lakh direct jobs over the period, as per a new report by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) in a vibrant supply chain around the world, based on existing datasets regarding job creation for onshore and offshore wind. A historic 93 GW of new wind capacity was installed in 2020 despite the impacts of COVID-19, making last year a record year for onshore wind growth and the second-best year for offshore wind growth, demonstrating the resilience of the wind industry and a visible signal that the industry and global supply chain can continue to deliver. This is also due to the installation push in the US for onshore wind and China for offshore wind for the matter. Wind installations expects a grow rate at a CAGR of 4 per cent over the next five years and annual offshore wind installations are set to grow four folds by 2025 with CAGR of 31.5 per cent over the next five years. The report said annual installations are set to exceed 110 GW by 2025, bringing the total volume of new installations from 2021-2025 to 470 GW. These additions are equivalent to two-thirds of all current wind installations worldwide which clearly shows that the industry is set for significant expansion over the next five years. With increased investment and policy ambition for onshore and offshore wind energy, the employment potential could exceed 33 lakhs jobs since by 2025 GWEC expects more than 1,210 GW of installed onshore and offshore wind capacity around the world.
The global wind energy industry is set to grow at a 4 per cent Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) through 2025, with additional 470 Gigawatt (GW) of capacity creation. It is expected that due to capacity creation would create over and above 33 Lakh direct jobs over the period, as per a new report by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) in a vibrant supply chain around the world, based on existing datasets regarding job creation for onshore and offshore wind. A historic 93 GW of new wind capacity was installed in 2020 despite the impacts of COVID-19, making last year a record year for onshore wind growth and the second-best year for offshore wind growth, demonstrating the resilience of the wind industry and a visible signal that the industry and global supply chain can continue to deliver. This is also due to the installation push in the US for onshore wind and China for offshore wind for the matter. Wind installations expects a grow rate at a CAGR of 4 per cent over the next five years and annual offshore wind installations are set to grow four folds by 2025 with CAGR of 31.5 per cent over the next five years. The report said annual installations are set to exceed 110 GW by 2025, bringing the total volume of new installations from 2021-2025 to 470 GW. These additions are equivalent to two-thirds of all current wind installations worldwide which clearly shows that the industry is set for significant expansion over the next five years. With increased investment and policy ambition for onshore and offshore wind energy, the employment potential could exceed 33 lakhs jobs since by 2025 GWEC expects more than 1,210 GW of installed onshore and offshore wind capacity around the world.
India Ready to become World Leader in Solar Panel and AC Component Market.
India even after 70 years of Independence Government could not wriggle out of the cobweb of the bad situation and hence could not think or prioritize attending to the prevailing poverty, its basic needs or other affair of the Country, while it had all the chances for becoming a developed Nation. A new government coming into power from 2014 had vowed and is committed to making India, once again a Rich Nation. This government is regularly launching Revolutionary Schemes due to which India is poised to become a Rich and a developed Nation. These Schemes, commitment and good governace of this Government are also attracting overseas companies to India now. The great opportunities are now seen in the Solar Panels and AC Components manufacturing Industries. All the types of Panels and accessories required for Solar Power Energy will be manufactured in India as the Indian Government now have clubbed the Solar Power Energy Panel industries to its new Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLI Scheme). Now the World’s Top Manufacturing Companies of Solar Panels and its accessories will be manufacturing and assemble them in India as the Government is giving them benefits for this and committed for Clean Energy. This PLI Scheme is one that will give impetus to Government’s earlier Scheme-“The Atma-Nirbar Scheme”. Earlier whenever India used to moot the idea of “ make in India” projects, many used to think and say that this just a small project that would be shelved soon. The present Government decided to pump enough funds in the PLI Scheme that is attracting Overseas Companies with Govt giving benefits. As per the Railway Minister Mr. Piyush Goyal, India at one time used to self – sufficient in in AC Production. But due to reasons beyond comprehensions, India started importing ACs as it was found that the imports of ACs was cheaper than the home made ACs. Now that the Govt has decided to bring the AC manufacturing into the PLI Scheme, India will soon become “THE” Hub of ACs manufacturing of the world. India has all the potentials be it the infrastructure, man power and technical skills for the production of ACs and it’s components. So also manufacturing Solar Panels in India. If these are made in India itself, there will be a massive gain at the monetary front and increase in FOREX Reserves. India will generate huge employment to its skilled man power. This process will also tremendously reduce the Pollution levels and giving its people a clean energy. Availability of electric power in turn will give rise to the acceptance of Electric Vehicles, both for passenger and Transport segments thereby reducing the Carbon emissions levels and a healthy climatic condition. The PLI Scheme is a Dream Project of the Government which is being fulfilled with the World’s Top Solar Panel manufacturing units showed a tremendous interest and confidence in the present Government’s Convictions, ideas and real benefits for them to set up units in India. The scheme aims to add 10,000-MW manufacturing capacity of integrated solar PV modules with a direct investment of Rs 17,200 crore. The domestic solar power industry has hailed the approval of Rs 4,500 crore production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme to boost domestic manufacturing capacity of solar PV modules, as this would provide impetus to production capacity thereby stimulating economic and sector-wide growth. The Union budget on 1 February, 2021 had committed Rs 1.97 lakh crore under PLI schemes for 13 key sectors to make India a manufacturing hub. Hence even the World’s Top Solar Energy’s PV , panels and other components manufacturing units also want to capitalise on new opportunities and would aid their growth by the present Indian Governments’ commitments to fight the Global Warming issue.
India even after 70 years of Independence Government could not wriggle out of the cobweb of the bad situation and hence could not think or prioritize attending to the prevailing poverty, its basic needs or other affair of the Country, while it had all the chances for becoming a developed Nation. A new government coming into power from 2014 had vowed and is committed to making India, once again a Rich Nation. This government is regularly launching Revolutionary Schemes due to which India is poised to become a Rich and a developed Nation. These Schemes, commitment and good governace of this Government are also attracting overseas companies to India now. The great opportunities are now seen in the Solar Panels and AC Components manufacturing Industries. All the types of Panels and accessories required for Solar Power Energy will be manufactured in India as the Indian Government now have clubbed the Solar Power Energy Panel industries to its new Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLI Scheme). Now the World’s Top Manufacturing Companies of Solar Panels and its accessories will be manufacturing and assemble them in India as the Government is giving them benefits for this and committed for Clean Energy. This PLI Scheme is one that will give impetus to Government’s earlier Scheme-“The Atma-Nirbar Scheme”. Earlier whenever India used to moot the idea of “ make in India” projects, many used to think and say that this just a small project that would be shelved soon. The present Government decided to pump enough funds in the PLI Scheme that is attracting Overseas Companies with Govt giving benefits. As per the Railway Minister Mr. Piyush Goyal, India at one time used to self – sufficient in in AC Production. But due to reasons beyond comprehensions, India started importing ACs as it was found that the imports of ACs was cheaper than the home made ACs. Now that the Govt has decided to bring the AC manufacturing into the PLI Scheme, India will soon become “THE” Hub of ACs manufacturing of the world. India has all the potentials be it the infrastructure, man power and technical skills for the production of ACs and it’s components. So also manufacturing Solar Panels in India. If these are made in India itself, there will be a massive gain at the monetary front and increase in FOREX Reserves. India will generate huge employment to its skilled man power. This process will also tremendously reduce the Pollution levels and giving its people a clean energy. Availability of electric power in turn will give rise to the acceptance of Electric Vehicles, both for passenger and Transport segments thereby reducing the Carbon emissions levels and a healthy climatic condition. The PLI Scheme is a Dream Project of the Government which is being fulfilled with the World’s Top Solar Panel manufacturing units showed a tremendous interest and confidence in the present Government’s Convictions, ideas and real benefits for them to set up units in India. The scheme aims to add 10,000-MW manufacturing capacity of integrated solar PV modules with a direct investment of Rs 17,200 crore. The domestic solar power industry has hailed the approval of Rs 4,500 crore production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme to boost domestic manufacturing capacity of solar PV modules, as this would provide impetus to production capacity thereby stimulating economic and sector-wide growth. The Union budget on 1 February, 2021 had committed Rs 1.97 lakh crore under PLI schemes for 13 key sectors to make India a manufacturing hub. Hence even the World’s Top Solar Energy’s PV , panels and other components manufacturing units also want to capitalise on new opportunities and would aid their growth by the present Indian Governments’ commitments to fight the Global Warming issue.
India is Committed to Ushering-in the Hydrogen Economy.
Union Petroleum and Natural Gas & Steel Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has said that India is looking towards various colours to kick-start the hydrogen ecosystem development. Addressing the Hydrogen Round Table on “Hydrogen Economy: New Delhi Dialogue – 2021”, he said that India, of late has started various initiatives with respect to the greater use of hydrogen in India’s clean energy mix. The Government of India had recently announced the National Hydrogen Mission in the Union Budget 2021 for making a hydrogen roadmap for the country. India is working on a pilot project on Blue Hydrogen, Hydrogen CNG (H-CNG) and Green Hydrogen. Through technological advancements, government is blending hydrogen with compressed natural gas for use as a transportation fuel as well as an industrial input to refineries. As already 50 buses in Delhi are plying on blended hydrogen in Compressed Natural Gas on a pilot basis. This will be in vogue across the major cities of India in the coming months, as per the minister. Pradhan said that India’s energy transition is on fast track mode. PM Narendra Modi has outlined a new energy map of India in October last year with seven key drivers, and, indeed, one of them is development of emerging fuels, particularly Hydrogen. He said that hydrogen has great potential to emerge as a future source of energy. When it is used in a fuel cell or burned to create heat, wherever hydrogen replaces fossil fuels, it slows global warming. Inclusion of “Hydrogen” as an energy carrier in the future energy portfolio presents a unique opportunity to address emerging energy vectors. The Petroleum and Natural Gas minister said that the ministry is committed to augmenting the hydrogen supply chain infrastructure in the country. In India our petroleum sector is the largest producer of hydrogen for various refinery process operations as compared to other Countries. It is realized that petroleum sector’s capability to produce hydrogen molecules, stored and traded as gas, making it a natural votary of this new energy form. This provides us an opportunity to utilise existing business models and infrastructure unlike other e-options. India is on track to achieve 450 GW target of renewable energy generating capacity by 2030, he added. “Diversification of our energy basket would be the key lever enabling this transition. However, it is equally important that the new energy-mix options synergise and co-exist with the established base technology already operational in the respective countries, in which, huge capital investments have been made. That’s why the emergence of hydrogen at the centre stage is a welcome development.” The minister also suggested that hydrogen can be easily adopted in the energy mix without seeking major infrastructural overhauling. He informed that the government is looking forward to introduce H-CNG as an intermittent technology in a ‘big way’ for both automotive and domestic cooking applications. The minister also said that the refineries are planning to leverage the available surplus hydrogen capacities in gray form for meeting the initial demand in mainstreaming hydrogen. And that one such project is underway at a Gujarat refinery of Indian Oil wherein the combination of hydrogen production through natural gas and its hyphenation with the carbon capture technology will result in the production of blue hydrogen. “Multiple buses powered by fuel cells will be covering various iconic routes. Efforts are underway to leverage the vast CNG pipeline infrastructure to reduce the transportation cost of hydrogen,” he said. Hydrogen in India Pradhan. The Minister announced that India, with its steadfast efforts towards leading the energy transition, backed by robust political will, is committed to engage with partners to ushering-in the hydrogen economy.
Union Petroleum and Natural Gas & Steel Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has said that India is looking towards various colours to kick-start the hydrogen ecosystem development. Addressing the Hydrogen Round Table on “Hydrogen Economy: New Delhi Dialogue – 2021”, he said that India, of late has started various initiatives with respect to the greater use of hydrogen in India’s clean energy mix. The Government of India had recently announced the National Hydrogen Mission in the Union Budget 2021 for making a hydrogen roadmap for the country. India is working on a pilot project on Blue Hydrogen, Hydrogen CNG (H-CNG) and Green Hydrogen. Through technological advancements, government is blending hydrogen with compressed natural gas for use as a transportation fuel as well as an industrial input to refineries. As already 50 buses in Delhi are plying on blended hydrogen in Compressed Natural Gas on a pilot basis. This will be in vogue across the major cities of India in the coming months, as per the minister. Pradhan said that India’s energy transition is on fast track mode. PM Narendra Modi has outlined a new energy map of India in October last year with seven key drivers, and, indeed, one of them is development of emerging fuels, particularly Hydrogen. He said that hydrogen has great potential to emerge as a future source of energy. When it is used in a fuel cell or burned to create heat, wherever hydrogen replaces fossil fuels, it slows global warming. Inclusion of “Hydrogen” as an energy carrier in the future energy portfolio presents a unique opportunity to address emerging energy vectors. The Petroleum and Natural Gas minister said that the ministry is committed to augmenting the hydrogen supply chain infrastructure in the country. In India our petroleum sector is the largest producer of hydrogen for various refinery process operations as compared to other Countries. It is realized that petroleum sector’s capability to produce hydrogen molecules, stored and traded as gas, making it a natural votary of this new energy form. This provides us an opportunity to utilise existing business models and infrastructure unlike other e-options. India is on track to achieve 450 GW target of renewable energy generating capacity by 2030, he added. “Diversification of our energy basket would be the key lever enabling this transition. However, it is equally important that the new energy-mix options synergise and co-exist with the established base technology already operational in the respective countries, in which, huge capital investments have been made. That’s why the emergence of hydrogen at the centre stage is a welcome development.” The minister also suggested that hydrogen can be easily adopted in the energy mix without seeking major infrastructural overhauling. He informed that the government is looking forward to introduce H-CNG as an intermittent technology in a ‘big way’ for both automotive and domestic cooking applications. The minister also said that the refineries are planning to leverage the available surplus hydrogen capacities in gray form for meeting the initial demand in mainstreaming hydrogen. And that one such project is underway at a Gujarat refinery of Indian Oil wherein the combination of hydrogen production through natural gas and its hyphenation with the carbon capture technology will result in the production of blue hydrogen. “Multiple buses powered by fuel cells will be covering various iconic routes. Efforts are underway to leverage the vast CNG pipeline infrastructure to reduce the transportation cost of hydrogen,” he said. Hydrogen in India Pradhan. The Minister announced that India, with its steadfast efforts towards leading the energy transition, backed by robust political will, is committed to engage with partners to ushering-in the hydrogen economy.