Friday, August 22, 2014: Andhra Pradesh, in order to attract more investments to boost power generation, is contemplating a new renewable energy policy. A comprehensive renewable energy policy is the focus of the state government now which would make 5000 MW solar power and 4000 MW wind energy, a reality by 2019.
The policy will be released in a month and to kick off things the government has also issued a tender for 500 MW solar power capacity last week. There are several major companies which are looking forward to install solar power projects in the state, including NTPC Ltd and NVVN Ltd. An agreement has also been signed by the Solar Energy Corporation of India as the government wants to set up 1000 MW solar power project in Mahbubnagar district. Last year a series of tenders were flowed by the state government to set up 1.16 GW solar power capacity across the state. An overwhelming response was received by prospective developers but following the division of the state no official word has been issued on the projects so far.
The state has also huge potential in wind power capacity, around 14,500 MW, which can be installed at 80 meter hub height. The state has installed wind energy capacity of less than 800 MW by March 2014. Since Andhra Pradesh has been divided into two states, lack of power supply is constantly bothering both the states and demand for Central government’s assistance has been increasing. Now both the states are competing with each other to enhance infrastructure and also attract more investment.
