Hyderabad, January 3
In a decisive move towards sustainability and energy self-reliance, Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka unveiled an ambitious plan to generate 20,000 MW of green power by 2030. The announcement was made during a high-profile stakeholders’ meeting on the Telangana Clean and Green Energy Policy-2024 at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) on Friday. The event saw participation from key renewable energy stakeholders, industry associations, and government officials, underscoring the state’s commitment to becoming a leader in green energy.
Addressing Rising Energy Demand
Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka emphasized the urgency of the initiative, citing Telangana’s rapidly growing energy needs. The state’s current peak electricity demand of 15,623 MW is projected to soar to 24,215 MW by 2029-30 and 31,809 MW by 2035, fueled by infrastructure projects such as Future City, Pharma City, Metro Rail Connectivity, Triple R, and industrial clusters.
“To meet this growing demand sustainably, we are prioritizing renewable energy,” the Deputy CM stated. He also highlighted the global push for green energy as part of environmental protection and pollution control measures, aligning Telangana’s goals with international efforts.
Formulating a Comprehensive Green Energy Policy
The state government is in the final stages of drafting the Telangana Clean and Green Energy Policy-2024. The policy, developed after consultations with renewable energy producers, industry associations, and other stakeholders, will be presented for cabinet approval shortly. Once approved, it will set the foundation for achieving Telangana’s green energy targets.
Advanced Technologies and Joint Ventures
To achieve the ambitious 20,000 MW target, Telangana plans to leverage cutting-edge technologies, including:
- Hybrid Systems: Combining different renewable energy sources for optimal efficiency.
- Net Metering: Enabling consumers to generate and share power.
- Floating Solar: Solar panels installed on water bodies.
- Pumped Storage: Storing energy for peak usage.
- Battery Charging: Integrating battery storage solutions.
- Hydrogen Power: Exploring clean hydrogen as an alternative fuel.
The state is also exploring joint venture opportunities with Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and other states, leveraging diverse geographic and resource advantages to scale green energy production.
Focus on Women and Farmers
Under the central government’s PM Kusum scheme, Telangana has committed to allocating 4,000 MW of renewable energy projects to women’s self-help groups. Of this, 1,000 MW has already been assigned. The state is also conducting pilot rooftop solar projects in select villages to empower rural communities. Additionally, plans are underway to allow farmers to utilize agricultural lands for renewable energy projects, providing them with an additional income stream.
Expanding Existing Infrastructure
Telangana’s current renewable energy capacity stands at 11,399 MW, comprising:
- 7,889 MW from solar power.
- 2,518 MW from hydroelectric power.
- The remainder from other renewable sources.
The state plans to build surplus capacity to not only meet domestic demand but also sell excess electricity to neighboring states, generating additional revenue.
Stakeholder Engagement and Suggestions
The stakeholders’ meeting witnessed participation from representatives of industry bodies like CII, FICCI, Telangana Solar Energy, Solar Corporation of India, NTPC, SC/ST associations, and research institutes. These groups offered valuable inputs for the new energy policy. “We aim to integrate these suggestions to ensure a robust and inclusive framework,” the Deputy CM noted.
No Electricity Tariff Hike in 2024
In a move that brings relief to consumers, Deputy CM Vikramarka announced that electricity tariffs would not be increased this year despite the extensive infrastructure investments required for green energy initiatives.
A Vision for the Future
The Deputy CM highlighted Telangana’s aspiration to emerge as a green energy leader. “This policy is not just about meeting energy demands; it’s about ensuring a cleaner, greener future for Telangana and contributing to global environmental goals. We are confident that these efforts will position Telangana as a renewable energy hub in India,” he stated.
As the state gears up to implement this forward-looking policy, it aims to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, paving the way for a cleaner, energy-secure future.
