Non conventional resources of energy-pressreleases: July 2009

Monday, July 13, 2009

press releases of mnes

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

VILAS MUTTEMWAR TO ACCOMPANY PRESIDENT TO THREE NATION STATE VISIT
Shri Vilas Muttemwar, Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy is a
Member of a High Power Delegation for President’s five-day State Visit to Strasbourg,
France and Greece from today . He would accompany President during his Address to
the European Parliament, International Space University at Strasbourg and meetings
with other dignitaries. Renewable energy would feature prominently in discussions
during these visits.

Friday, May 25, 2007

BHANJAKHRI WATER FALLS RENEWABLE ENERGY PARK, GANGTOK TO
BE OPERATED BY COMING OCTOBER
Civil Works for various Renewable Energy Systems and Landscape Development has been
started at Renewable Energy Park at Bhanjakhri Water Falls, Gangtok. This State level Park is
getting Rs. One Crore as grant from Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
Public awareness activities such as Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urja Diwas, District Advisory Committee
functions, New Renewable Source Energy (NRSE) exhibitions and Solar Energy and Small hydro
power programmes are organized under this project. Dr. N.P. Singh, Advisor, MNRE discussed
this project with Shri K.S. Tobegy, Director of Sikkim Renewable Energy Development Agency
(SREDA) at Gangtok today along with proposals for 2007-08. The Ministry of New Renewable
Energy has been implementing comprehensive programmes for the development and utilization
of various renewable energy sources in the country. As a result of a number of technologies and
devices have been developed and have become commercially available. These include bio-gas
plants, improved wood stoves, solar water heaters, solar cooker, solar lanterns, street lights,
ponds, wind electric generators etc. Energy technologies such as hydrogen, fuel cells and biofuels
are being actively developed.

Monday, June 4, 2007

Thursday, June 21, 2007

HYDROGEN FUELED VEHICLES ON ROAD BY 2020: VILAS MUTTEMWAR
The National Hydrogen Energy road Map lays down the pathway for the development
of Hydrogen energy infrastructure in the country including introduction of Hydrogen
Fueled Vehicles by 2020.Giving a Presidential address in the conclave on National
Hydrogen Energy Road Map: Opportunities for Public Private Partnership (PPP), the
Minister of State for the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Shri Vilas Muttemwar
sad that the Ministry is confident of achieving over ten per cent of the total installed
power generating capacity in the country by 2012 from Renewable Power. The Minister
further said about 10 lakh solar photovoltaic systems are being used for domestic
lighting purposes. Today India has largest programmes on renewable energy
technologies in the world. The total power generating capacity in the country as of
March 2007 was about 1,33,000 MW. Renewable power generating capacity is about
10,252 MW, which contributes 7.75 per cent of the installed power generating capacity.
Among renewable power technologies the major contributions are from Wind Power
(7092 MW) Small Hydro Power (1976 MW), Bio Energy (1187 MW) and 155 MW of grid
distributed renewable power.
Our Ministry has been appointed as the nodal Ministry for the overall coordination of the
National Bio Fuel Programme. Bio Fuels provides short-term answer to alleviate the
problem of climate change, the long-term answer has been recognized the world over
to come from hydrogen, which is being called the free fuel for future. India is actively
involved in hydrogen and fuel cell research and development for more than two
decades in academic institutions universities, research and development institutions
and industry. The Minister added recognizing the importance of hydrogen as a green
future fuel, the Ministry set up a National Hydrogen Energy Board in 2003. The Board
has set up a Steering Group under the Chairmanship of Shri Ratan Tata to prepare a
National Hydrogen Road Map. Under this initiatives about 1 million Hydrogen Fuel
vehicles, of which about 75 per cent vehicles are expected to be two and three
wheelers, would be plying on the Indian Roads. Aggregate hydrogen based power
generating capacity of 1000 MW would be set up by that time.
Dr. R.Chidambaram, Principal Scientific Advisor, Government of India, in his special
address said that hydrogen is a source of clean energy. He said per capita electricity
consumption and female literacy are main factors for development of any country. Apart
from water, distillery waste bagasse etc. can be used to produce hydrogen fuel. Shri
Ratan Tata, Chairman Tata Group and Chairman Steering Group, NHEB, Tata said
hydrogen fuel will be alternative to fossil fuel on which national economy can be build.
He said hydrogen may remain illusive for long term because there are challenges to
generated, to store and to deliver it. India has enormous strength of scientists and
manpower and I am confident that if not us, our future generation will definitely have
clear fuel. Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Dy Chairman, Planning Commission, giving
inaugural address, said to reduce emission clean fuel like hydrogen will help. The
Ministry is looking for new energy, which has high potential. We should develop more
technologies and put efforts in more research.
Earlier, Dr. S.K. Chopra, Principal Advisor and Special Secretary welcomed the
gathering.. He said hydrogen is considered to be a potential green fuel for future, which
can lead to the ultimate carbon free energy demand. He also gave information about
the exhibition, which was inaugurated in the earlier. Hydrogen fueled motorcycles, three
wheelers and car, IC Engines and get sets catalytic cookers, UPS systems and other
appliances have been exhibited.
Shri V.Subramanian, Secretary, MNRE, gave brief background of the Ministry. He said
the Ministry has been created about 25 years ago from Science and Technology and
not from Power Ministry, which is general belief. He said the Ministry is putting more
emphasis on research and development for bio fuels. He said it is a long way to go but
we have made a good beginning.

Friday, July 06, 2007

INDIA’S BIO-FUEL PROGRAMME TO BE DEVELOPED ON PUBLIC
PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP
SHRI VILAS MUTTEMVAR ADDRESSES INTERNATIONAL BIOFUELS
CONFERENCE AT BRUSSELS
The Bio-fuel programme in India is to be developed on Public-Private
Partnerships which would promote bio-fuel plantations on government,
community and private lands. Simultaneously, the industrial sector is
also being encouraged to increase ethanol production from non-food
feedstocks. Addressing the ‘International Bio-fuels Conference’ at
Brussels today, Shri Vilas Muttemvar, the Minister for New and
Renewable Energy said that several Indian corporates and business
houses have in collaboration with the Government started to establish
Jatropha plantations on waste lands or have begun contract farming on
private holdings.
Shri Muttemvar said that several state governments have announced
policies to encourage Jatropha cultivation, setting up bio-diesel plants
and supply chains up in many states. Incidentally, 100% foreign direct
investment in new and renewable energy is allowed under the automatic
route in India.
The Minister said that the Government is in the process of preparing a
‘National Policy on Bio-fuels’ expected to lay the foundation for the
accelerated development of the sector and the areas likely to be
covered there in are - R&D, capacity building, purchase policy and
registration for enabling bio-fuel use. The policy will aim at a short-term
blending proportion of 5% by 2012, medium term of 10% by 2017 and a
long-term of above beyond 2017 and the policy would also recommend
fixation of minimum support price for Jatropha and other non-edible
oilseeds.
The Minister said that the focus of our bio-fuel programme is on
indigenous development to the extent possible by using science and
technology and industrial capabilities. We look forward to working with
the European Union and all participating countries for achieving our biofuel
aims and targets. Our priorities for cooperation include programmes
for increasing crop yields, oil content of oilseeds, and reducing the
environmental impact of bio-fuel usage. The Government is also looking
at cooperation in fuel conversion technologies from waste cellulosic
materials and dedicated cellulosic crops.
The Minister further emphasized that bio-fuels are an integral
component of our ‘National Energy Policy’. The effective implementation
of the bio-fuel programme would go a long way in reducing India’s
dependence on oil besides helping to address climate change concerns.
The Minister said that India has been among the world leaders in the
deployment of new and renewable energy. Over these years, the
contribution of renewable energy has increased significantly in India,
meeting about 15 per cent of the electricity needs, of which 12
percentage points comes from large hydro. Around 45,000 MW
renewable power generating capacity to date or one-third of the total
has been installed comprising over 7000 MW from wind, 1200 MW from
bio power and over 36,000 MW from hydro power of which 2000 MW is
from small hydro power. He further said that India has met with
phenomenal success in solar hot water systems area. Already 2 million
square meters collector area has been installed so far and the
Government is planning to add an additional 10 million square meters
during the next five years.
Shri Muttemvar informed that a ‘National Hydrogen Energy Road Map’
for the introduction of a hydrogen economy has been formulated and the
preparation of the Road Map entailed detailed discussions among policy
makers, scientists and corporates etc. There is a great deal of realism in
our projections for a hydrogen future and India is aiming to add onemillion
hydrogen powered 2/3/4 wheelers by 2020 or so.

Friday, August 03, 2007

SOLAR ENERGY CENTRE – TECHNICAL FOCAL POINT OF THE NEW AND
RENEWABLE MINISTRY
The Solar Energy Centre is a technical focal point of the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy for the development and promotion of solar energy technologies.
Talking to a group of journalists at the Centre, Dr. Bibek Bandopadhyay said that on
this 200 acre campus we have buildings constructed on solar passive techniques to
achieve energy efficiency and environmentally friendliness. We have incorporated more
solar essential points which provides energy efficiency. It maximizes solar radiation
during winter and avoids during summer.
Centre has equipments, laboratories and other associated facilities for design
development, testing and evaluation. We also have testing and standardization
facilities, he added. The Center provides assistance to Research Institutions, Academic
Institutions and industries in the country in developing solar technology. The products
developed by organizations are brought here for testing and standardization. The
centre evaluate it and suggest ways for modifying it towards betterment. As a result of
this, a more reliable and efficient product comes out.
The solar thermal test facility is equipped for testing of solar thermal collectors,
domestic solar water heating systems and solar cookers, both box type and
concentrating type. The center works closely with the Bureau of Indian Standard, which
brought out Indian standards on solar flat-plate collectors at par with the International
Standards.
Giving details on solar photo-voltaic facility, it was informed that there are four other
such centers in the world. They are ISPRA, Milan, Italy, TUV, Germany, Arizona
University USA and Kyoto. The demand of solar cells which are called solar wafers and
modules or solar panels is very high in the country. We import about 30 per cent solar
cells. Telecom Ministry, Defence, Railways and ONGC are permanent users of this
system. Referring to revolution in home light systems, Dr. Bandopadhyay said that
LED, i.e. Light Emitting Diodes have been developed. Incandescent lights have been
replaced by fluorescent lights. Recently, CFL bulbs with little modification in fluorescent
system came in the market but this also does not have efficacy. So far LED was used in
electronic equipments as indicators but with innovation of white LED, we will have LED
light systems in the near future. They have longest life and they can work in hard
environments. Fluorescent lights do not works in cold regions like Leh Ladakh and in
vary hot regions like Rajasthan.
With the initiation of the Ministry there are 5,60,000 solar lanterns, 3,42,000 home
lighting systems, 54,700 solar street lights and almost 7000 water pumping systems in
the country.
The Center is also working towards bio-fuels and 26,000 Jatropha saplings from three
different agro-climatic zones have been planted in 26 acre land. The programme is in
the second year of implementation.

Thursday, August 09, 2007

RAJIV GANDHI AKSHAY URJA DIWAS CELEBRATIONS TO HIGHLIGHT
IMPORTANCE OF NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
INDIA ACHIEVED SECOND POSITION IN BIOGAS DEVELOPMENT
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will celebrate Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urja
Diwas on 20th of this month. The main function will be organised at Hyderabad.
Besides, other Districts and state capitals will also organize various programmes
highlighting importance of new renewable energy sources. Renewable Energy Run,
Rallies, Essay writing, Painting, Quiz competitions, Exhibitions will be organised all over
country. At Hyderabad, National Half (21Km) Marathon for Men and Women will be
organized through Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh. The winners of the Marathon
will get cash prize of Rs.50,000/- for each Men and Women. Three days Renewable
Energy Exhibition from 20-22nd August, 2007 also will be organized. Administering of
Renewable Energy pledge to over 10,000 school children will take place.
Shri V.Subramanian, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy said in
Hyderabad today that new and renewable energy sources such as solar, biomass, wind
and hydro will check environmental pollution and make energy needs for all sectors. He
further said these sources are non-depleting and are available in most parts of the
country throughout the year. Global warming and climate change are environmental
hazards faced by all. In this situation, the Ministry tries to inculcate idea of using
renewable energy through children so that the message reaches society at large. This
is the reason, school children are invited to take pledge to use maximum renewable
energy sources.
Shri Subramanian further added that India had reached second position in Biogas
development with installation of over 40.00 lakh Biogas plants and 4th position in Wind
Energy development by achieving 7,300 MW power connecting to grids. Over 2 million
sq mt solar collector area has also been achieved for Solar Hot Water, Solar Drier and
other Solar thermal devices.

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

INDIA RANKS SECOND IN BIO-GAS AND FOURTH IN WIND ENERGY AT GLOBAL LEVEL
India is ranked Number Second in bio-gas and Number Four in Wind Energy
Development globally. Giving a key-note address during the celebration of State level
function of Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urja Diwas today, Shri Vilas Muttemwar, Minister of
State for New and Renewable Energy further said that solar water heating system has
become very popular in urban, commercial and industrial sectors. Over 20 lakh sq.
meter solar collector area has been installed for solar water heaters and other solar
thermal applications. Addressing a gathering of more than 2500 school children from
various schools in and around in Delhi, the Minister explained that solar photovoltaic
technology has been used for number of applications such as lighting, communication,
water pumping, power generation etc. Over 10 lakh photovoltaic systems have been
promoted from this application.
The Minister said that excessive use of fossil fuels were creating environmental
problems in the form of global warming and climate change. India is blessed with plenty
of renewable energy sources such as solar, bio-energy, wind and hydel energy. Shri
Muttemwar described them as non-depleting, environmental friendly sources and
available in most parts of the country all the time. With such a vast pool of renewable
sources available, the ministry is striving to provide energy in every village and lighting
in every house.
Encouraging people and especially children to increase the use of renewable energy to
protect the environment, the Delhi Chief Minister, Ms. Sheela Dikshit said that Rajiv
Gandhi Akshay Urja Diwas serves to educate and mobilize people across the country
for environmental protection, to inspire action on personal, community, national and
international levels. She said that each of us can join in voluntary action to build a
productive land in harmony with nature.
Dr. R.K.Pachauri, Head of TERI and Chairman of United Nation’s Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change said that at TERI, they want to rekindle their commitment to
the cause and nation to develop and promote technologies for efficient and sustainable
use of natural and renewable resources.
More than 2500 students from public, private and Government Schools of Delhi
participated in this event. Students administered Akshay Urja Pledge to the audience to
avoid excessive consumption of energy derived from conventional sources and to
follow the path of renewable energy.
A week-long series of events were organized which include essay writing competition,
inter-school banner and caricatcher, painting competition, songs, skits and signature
campaign. Solar torches and educational kits developed by TERI were given as prizes
to students and schools.

Monday, September 3, 2007

NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY REACHES REMOTE VILLAGES AND HAMLETS
192 MW Grid Interactive Renewable Power has been commissioned against the target
of 1500 MW for the year 2007-08. 55 MW of Wind Power Capacity was commissioned
during last month. In the field of biomass power capacity 17.5 MW was commissioned
last month taking the achievement in the sector to 54.5 MW against a target 275 MW
for 2007-08. In the field of small hydro power 5 MW capacity was commissioned during
the same period.
12 MW biomass (non-bagasse) cogeneration capacity for captive use of a paper mill
was commissioned during the last month taking the achievement in the sector to 12
MW against a target of 20 MW for 2007-08 and cumulative achievement in the sector to
57.80 MW.
More than 3000 villages and 830 hamlets have been electrified under remote village
electrification programme so far , where 36 villages were covered under this scheme
during last month. 5 Test Projects on Village Energy Security were commissioned
during June and July 2007-08 taking cumulative achievement under the programme to
13 test projects.
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) disbursed Rs.12.44 crore as
loan during last month. The Ministry has target of Rs. 550 crore for 2007-08, out of
which Rs. 156.26 crores disbursement has been achieved.

Wednesday, September 6, 2007

TOTAL ELECTRIFICATION OF ALL THE REMOTE VILLAGES BY 2012
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy proposes to create SEZ for production of
equipments required for renewable energy. The States of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh,
Maharashtra, Jharkhand have offered to give land for this purpose. Inaugurating the
National Conference on Renewable Energy, Shri Vilas Muttemwar, Minister of State for
New and Renewable Energy disclosed that acquisition of land and other facilities as
well as details are under discussion.
All the remote villages in the country will get minimum 1 Unit electricity during the
Eleventh Plan i.e. by March 2012 under renewable energy. Declaring this target the
Minister said that 4000 remote villages and hamlets have been covered under the rural
electrification under Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Vidutikaran Yojana through Renewable
Energy so far. The Ministry is working on such electrification to cover another 2700
villages.
Giving the details of progress during the Tenth Plan, he said it was quite encouraging.
the Renewable power electricity addition has been around 25 per cent of the total
installed capacity during this period. Wind power ranks 4th globally despite low and
moderate wind regimes are endowed with. Our wind resource potential utilization is 16
per cent in comparison with less than 2 per cent for Europe and less than 1 per cent for
the United States. Our wind resource potential is based on a lower threshold wind
power density of 200 watts per sq. meter as against 300 watts adopted elsewhere.
Regarding high electricity potential, Shri Muttemwar said it lies in our North East Region
which by and large remain unexploited. He appealed to work together to realize this
potential to the best advantage of the Nation. He suggested to debate on ideas as how
best to achieve this aspiration in this Conference. Regarding power generation from
bagassi, he said more focused attention and sincere efforts need to put to increase cost
effective electricity in sugar mills. To bring down unit cost to generation of renewable
power he said manufacturers, d developers, transmission, distribution companies,
researchers and technical experts need to work in greater concern and depth. The
Minister said that ethanol industry is hopeful of meeting the requirement of our
immediate aim for blending with petrol. A lot more would need to be done to ensure that
ethanol supplies whether from molasses, agricultural based or various residues can be
sustained in the future without impugning of food security. He also said that plantation
of jetropha will be increased without disturbing agricultural land.
The use of solar thermal systems especially in urban, industrial and commercial
applications is being promoted through concessional lands. Solar collector area of
around 2 million Sq. meters has already been installed for various applications. We
expect to add 10 million sq. meters during the next five years through relatively simple
technologies, much energy will be saved.
Giving key-note address Shri Sushil Kumar Shinde, Minister of Power said that a Joint
Committee will be formulated from both the Ministries for rural electrification and hydel
power generation. The Joint Committee will remove delay in executing this scheme.
State Secretaries and officials from State New and Renewable Energy participated in
this Conference. Different papers were presented on generation of National Biomass
Resource Atlas, Biomass Gasification for Decentralized Power Generation and Thermal
Application, urban industrial and commercial application, biogas etc.

Friday, September 7, 2007

TECHNOLOGY UPGRADATION IN ENERGY SECTOR
Lok Sabha
The New and Renewable Energy has been implementing a broad based programme
covering research, development, demonstration and utilization of various renewable
energy sources like bio-energy, solar energy, wind energy, small hydro and other
emerging renewable sources of energy for more than two decades. The renewable
sources of energy are ‘Green’ as they are either carbon neutral or carbon free.
Technologies for utilisation of some of the Renewable energy sources have really
matured and are in early phases of commercialization. The use of ethanol, a form of
bio fuel, for blending with petrol on a limited scale has already been introduced in the
country. However, technologies for utilisation of bio diesel, hydrogen, geo thermal
energy and tidal energy are presently under different stages of research,
development and demonstration in the country.
An amount of Rs.1500 crores as budgetary support has been proposed by the
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy for research and development on various
renewable sources of energy during 11th Plan period. The increase of new and
renewable sources of energy would reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, reduces
emission of green house gases and ultimately provide energy security to the country.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy, Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to question :in the Lok
Sabha today.

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

SHRI VILAS MUTTEMWAR TAKES INITIATIVES FOR NAGPUR PROJECTS
Development and beautification projects will take place in Nagpur soon. Shri Vilas
Muttemwar, Minister of New and Renewable Energy and Shri M.M. Pallam Raju,
Minister of State for Defence met yesterday at Nagpur to resolve long pending
problems. Both the Ministers discussed issues relating to land swap between Indian
Air Force (IAF) and Maharashtra Airport Development Cooperation Limited (MADC).
Accordingly, Cargo Hub Project of Government of Maharashtra and Gajraj Project of
IAF were the major subject of discussion. Besides, the Beautification and
Development programme of Sitabuldi Fort, land transfer for development of Koradi
Devi Temple Complex, Ganesh Tekri Temple Complex, Fly-over near Nagpur
Railway Station and Kamptee Railway Station, Idgah land and Rubbani Food Ball
ground were also discussed. Shri M.M. Pallam Raju, instructed IAF to ensure to
reach MoU about land swap between MADC and IAF within next fifteen days. He
also ensured that most of the issues will be sorted out amicably within a short period
of time.

INDIA AND ICELAND SIGNS MOU ON RENEWABLE ENERGY COOPERATION
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy signed a Memorandum of Understanding on
Renewable Energy Cooperation today with the Government of Iceland. Under the
Memorandum both the countries will decide upon project proposals related to design
and development of various new and renewable energy technologies, identified areas
of mutual interest and cooperation for systems, sub-systems, devices, components
etc. and monitor and evaluate cooperation activities.
Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Shri Vilas Muttemwar led a delegation to
Iceland in June 2006. During this visit both sides agreed to explore cooperation in the
areas of geothermal, hydrogen and fuel cells and wind energy.
The MoU proposes to take forward cooperation in various areas of renewable energy
technologies. Iceland and India cooperates in hydrogen and fuel cells under the
forum of International Partnership for Hydrogen Economy (IPHE). Icelandic side will
be fielding a trade delegation in November 2007 to establish industry level contacts in
renewable energy.

Thursday, October 11, 2007

REMOTE VILLAGE ELECTRIFICATION PROGRAMME
FACT SHEET
Under the Remote Village Electrification (RVE) Programme. The Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy receives proposals from the State Governments, for financial
support for electrification through non-conventional energy sources of duly identified
remote un-electrified census villages and un-electrified hamlets of electrified census
villages. This include tribal villages as well as villages located in the mountain and
forest areas. The task of identification of remote villages/hamlets has been entrusted to
the Rural Electrification Corporation. Proposals are sanctioned once they are complete
in all respects with requires documents and are in conformity with the RVE
Programme. The State-wise details of such proposals are given below:
State-wise details of funds released under the RVE
Programme
during the Last 3 years.Rs. Lakhs
S No. State 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08
1. Andhra Pradesh 0.00 7.00 0
2. Arunachal Pradesh 293.00 156.28 4.11
3. Assam 32.00 346.58 1861.77
4. Chhatisgarh 275.5 363 218.00
5. Gujarat 45.00 0.00 0.00
6. Haryana 0.00 123.99 0.00
7. Himachal Pradesh 160.00 64.88 0.00
8. Jammu & Kashmir 2.5 0.00 0.00
9. Jharkhand 1197.00 312 1011.00
10. Karnataka 49.00 0.00 0.00
11. Kerala 0.00 1.61 0.00
12. Madhya Pradesh 28.00 177.21 402.24
13. Maharashtra 285.00 810.86 940.00
14. Manipur 381.00 585.59 54.27
15. Meghalaya 0.00 135.72 102.60
16. Nagaland 0.00 17.34 0.00
17. Orissa 5.5 496.27 276.00
18. Rajasthan 247.00 51.00 575.46
19. Tripura 0.00 352.07 0.00
20. Uttarakhand 147.00 346.63 0.00
21. West Bengal 953.00 1366.26 0.00

Friday, October 12, 2007

DEVELOPMENT OF RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
BACKGROUNDER
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is implementing a wide range of programmes for the
development and deployment of new and of renewable energy. To encourage investment in the
renewable energy sector, fiscal and financial incentives are being provided that include capital /
interest subsidy, accelerated depreciation, concessional duties and relief from taxes, apart from
preferential tariff for grid power being given in most potential States. Publicity and awareness on
the need and usefulness of renewable energy systems / devices is created through print, postal
and electronic media and special events like the Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urja Diwas are being
organised. District-level Advisory Committees have also been constituted in the states to facilitate
effective coordination of renewable energy schemes. These apart, research, design, and
development in new and renewable energy is being supported.
The Expert Committee on Integrated Energy Policy in its Report (IEPR 2006) has
estimated that by 2032, i.e., 25 years from now primary commercial energy requirement in the
country would need to go up 4-5 times the current level, electricity generation installed capacity
5.6-7 times the current level and oil requirement by 3-6 times the current level. The need to
diversify energy supply options is brought out in the IEPR 2006. Accordingly, increased focus is
being laid on the deployment of renewable power that is likely to account for around 5 per cent in
the electricity-mix by 2032. This apart, alternate fuels, essentially bio-fuels, are proposed to be
progressively used for blending with diesel and petrol, mainly for transport applications.

Although the potential is based on surplus agro-residues, in practice there are several barriers in
collection and transportation of such agro-residues to the generation site and biomass power
generation units prefer to use fuel-wood for techno-economic reasons. A potential of 45,000 MWe
from around 20mha of wastelands assumed to be yielding 10MT/ha/annum of woody biomass
having 4000 k-cal/kg with system efficiency of 30% and 75% PLF has not been taken into
account. A Biomass Atlas is under preparation which is expected to more accurately assess
state-wise renewable energy potential from agro-residues.
Potential based on areas having wind power density (wpd) greater than 200 W/m2
assuming land availability in potential areas @ 1 per cent and requirement of wind farms @ 12
ha/MW, not all of which may be technically feasible for grid-interactive wind power. In line with
international practice for setting up grid-interactive wind power systems on sites having wpd
greater than 300 W / m2, potential would be 5000 MW. Preliminary surveys do not at this juncture
suggest a sizeable grid-interactive off-shore wind power potential.
Technically feasible and economically viable hydro potential is generally accepted at 40% of the
total estimated potential. Accordingly, the technically feasible and economically viable small
hydropower potential could be around 6000MW.
With new sugar mills and modernization of existing ones, technically feasible potential is
assessed at 5000 MWe, not all of which may be economically viable. Furthermore, several sugar
companies/cooperatives are unable to develop bankable projects on account of their financial and
liquidity positions.
With expansion of urban population post census 2001, current technically feasible municipal
waste-to-energy potential is assessed at 1700 MWe, for which 5 pilot projects will be set up.
All of this renewable energy potential may not be suitable for grid-interactive power for technical
and / or economic reasons. Further, estimate excludes potential for solar power which is
dependent on future developments that might make solar technology cost-competitive for gridinteractive
power generation applications.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

NATIONAL RATING SYSTEM FOR GREEN BUILDINGS GRIHA
The National Rating System GRIHA for Green Buildings will be soon operationalise in
the country. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and the Energy and
Research Institute –TERI will enter in a Memorandum of Understanding tomorrow
regarding development and operationalisation of this system. The TERI-GRIHA was
conceived and developed over a period of time with the vision of mainstreaming
sustainable habitat. The same concept is being propagated nationally.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Sources will constitute the Technical
Advisory Committee (TEC ) to guide modifications if required and this will be made
applicable to all building typologies and across all climatic zones. The National
Advisory Council (NAC ) ,also constituted by the Ministry, will provide advice and give
direction to the national rating system.

Monday, November 5, 2007

FOOD AND FRUIT PROCESSING INDUSTRIES WILL BE FOCUSED FOR
COGENERATION AND ENERGY RECOVERY
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will promote technologies to promote
productive utilization of biomass for production of energy in Food and Fruit
Processing industries in the country. Inaugurating a regional awareness workshop on
Energy recovery and cogeneration Projects in Food and Fruit Processing industries
today Sh. V. Subramanian ,secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy said
that the ministry has decided to apply special focus to urban industrial wastes. Sh.
Subramanian informed that three main technologies are being promoted by the
ministry for productive utilization of biomass are bagasse-based cogeneration in
sugar mills, bio-mass power generation and bio-mass gasification for thermal and
electrical applications. Now the ministry will focus on food and fruit processing
industries The technology is same, the efficiency will vary, hence each industry will
have to implant to get maximum benefits. Referring to solar heating system used for
drier in chilly, papad and even condoms industries , he said that this renewable
energy is doable, profitable and environment friendly.
The potential for cogeneration projects is estimated at 3500 MW of additional power
generation from existing wastes from industries. He assured that the ministry is ready
to give all technical support and interest subsidy. There is tremendous scope for
captive power generation in the industries like dairies, starch, poultry, slaughter
houses, oil extraction, breweries etc.
This workshop was organized by Cogeneration Association of India and was
sponsored by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

Sunday, November 11, 2007

REDGTF MEETING OF APPCDC BEGINS TOMORROW AT BANGALORE
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is hosting the 4thRenewable Energy and
Distributed Generation Task Force (REDGTF) meeting of Asia Pacific Partnership on
Clean Development on Climate (APPCDC) from tomorrow at Bangalore. During
these five day meeting, field visits to the premises of Indian Institute of Science and
TATA BP Solar also will be organized. India’s hosting of this event reflects its keen
interest to foster active cooperation with the other member countries in new and
renewable energy technologies. The partnership holds a great promise for
developing futuristic energy technologies which will not only address the energy
security issue but also the environmental concerns due to greenhouse gas
emissions. Representatives from the member countries namely India, Australia,
China, Japan, South Korea, the USA and Canada will take part in it. Canada has
joined the partnership during the recently held Ministerial meeting in last October at
New Delhi. Besides them, academicians, representatives from finance, research and
industry will participate in this meeting.

INDIA’S PARTICIPATION IN ASIA-PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP ON CLEAN
DEVELOPMENT AND CLIMATE (APPCDC)
BACKGROUNDER
India is a member of the Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate
(APPCDC), launched in January 2006. The partnership aims at developing, deploying
and transferring cleaner and more efficient energy technologies in accordance with the
national priorities of APPCDC member countries. The other member countries of
APPCDC are Australia, China, Japan, South Korea and the USA. Canada has also
joined the partnership during the recently held Ministerial meeting on 15 October 2007
at New Delhi. There are in all 8 specific Task Forces. Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy is the national focal point to promote cooperation in renewable energy and
distributed generation under the Renewable Energy and Distributed Generation Task
Force (REDGTF). India has been actively participating in the task force meeting.
India has joined in about 20 projects under Renewable Energy and Distributed
Generation Task Force (REDGTF) under the aegis of Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean
Development & Climate (APPCDC) out of the total of about 30 projects initiated by other
partner countries.
REDGTF project opportunities have two streams of activities namely Actionable
projects and Endorsement projects.
Actionable projects are non-commercial projects that will significantly contribute to the
Task Force’s visions and goals. For example, Studies of barriers and opportunities in
partner countries; study of innovative financing mechanisms; capacity building and
training programmes will be carried out. It is anticipated that the majority of market
enabling projects would fall into this category. These projects are largely managed and
funded by governments.
The Endorsement projects are commercial projects, undertaken and led by industry,
that significantly contribute to the Task Forces’ vision and goals. For example,
deployment of a wind farm in a partner country with an increased on-the –job training
component for local population; deployment of concentrating photovoltaic systems with
technology transfer and support for indigenization. These projects must involve a
partner in at least one of the AP countries. It is also anticipated that these projects may
seek facilitation and support from the AP process but will be largely commercial in
nature. These projects are largely managed and funded by industry.
India also suggested 9 projects in the area of solar technology and waste to energy
during the 3rd REDGTF meeting held at San Diego, California, USA in March 2007.
These projects are under discussion with the likely partner countries, primarily USA,
Australia and Japan.
The projects undertaken under the REDGTF are of the nature of market enabling,
deployment and also research, design and development (RD&D).The Market Enabling
Projects are focused on addressing policy, regulatory, attitudinal, financial, educational
and other challenges to the uptake of REDG technologies. Deployment projects are
focused on accelerating the up-take of existing, commercial REDG systems and
services into partner country markets. Research, Design and Development Projects
are focused on applied research, development, and/or demonstration of new
technologies to reduce their technical and commercial risk and increase stakeholder
confidence. The Partnership is by and large of public-private-partnership (PPP) nature
involving all stakeholders, i.e., industry, government and research institution.

Monday, November 19, 2007

SOLAR ENERGY GENERATION
Rajya Sabha
India receives solar energy equivalent to over 5,000 trillion kWh per year. The daily average
solar energy incident over India varies from 4 -7 kWh per square meter depending upon
the location. Solar energy can be harnessed through two routes, namely solar photovoltaic
(PV) and solar thermal, by direct conversion to electricity and heat energy respectively.
The utilization of solar energy in the country is regularly increasing, however, the high initial
cost of the solar energy systems is a barrier in its large-scale utilization. The estimated unit
cost of electricity from grid connected solar energy plant is estimated to be around Rs. 12
–15 per unit, which is very high compared to electricity generated from conventional sources
including thermal power and other renewable energy sources such as wind, small hydro
and biomass.
A total of 33 grid interactive solar photovoltaic power plants have been installed in the
country with financial assistance from the Ministry. These plants, with aggregate capacity
of 2.125 Megawatt peak are estimated to generate about 2.5 million units of electricity in a
year.
In view of the high initial cost, at present, solar energy systems are mainly being used for
stand-alone applications in lighting, telecommunication, small power requirements, battery
charging, water heating and cooking etc. so far around 14 lakh solar photovoltaic systems
aggregating to about 110 Megawatt peak solar photovoltaic module capacity have been
installed in the country. In addition about 6 lakh solar cookers and about 20 lakh square
metre collector area has been installed for solar water heating applications, which is
equivalent to about 1400 Megawatt thermal capacity.

GRID POWER PLANTS GENERATING POWER FROM RENEWABLES
Rajya Sabha
Grid-interactive renewable power plants with an aggregate installed capacity of about
10,985 MW as on 30.9.2007 are located in 31 States/UTs. In small Hydro Power
sector , total 2014.66 MW, in Wind Power sector 7660.20 MW, in Bio Power including
Bio Mass and Waste Energy 1308 MW and in Solar Power Sector 2.12 MW grid
interaction renewable power generation capacity has been installed.
Five such plants with an aggregate capacity of 21.25 MW are located in Vidarbha
region of Maharashtra. They are located in Amaravati, Gondia and Nagpur Districts.
The 11th Plan proposals of the Ministry envisage grid-interactive renewable power
capacity addition of 14,500 MW during the Plan period.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to question by Shri Vijay
J.Darda in the Rajya Sabha today.

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
SOLAR ENERGY UNDER REMOTE VILLAGES ELECTRIFICATION PROGRAMME
Rajya Sabha
A Programme for providing financial support for electrification of those remote
unelectrified census villages and unelectrified hamlets of electrified census villages in
various States, where grid extension is either not feasible or not cost effective and
which are not taken up under the Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Vidyutikaran Yojna, is being
implemented by the Ministry. Such villages are provided basic facilities for lighting /
electricity through various renewable energy sources including solar energy. From
2005-06, support is provided for those remote villages / hamlets which are identified
by the Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) for coverage through renewable
energy sources.
Central Financial Assistance of upto 90% of the costs, subject to pre-specified
maximum amounts for each technology, is provided for projects approved under the
programme.
As of October 2007, 3338 remote unelectrified census villages and 830 remote
unelectrified hamlets have been covered under the programme. Further, projects are
under implementation in 1866 remote unelectrified census villages and 638 remote
unelectrified hamlets in various States.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to question by Shri
O.T.Lepcha in the Rajya Sabha today.

Saturday, November 24, 2007

DEVELOPMENT OF NEW & RENEWABLE ENERGY TO GET RS. 10,460
CRORE FOR ELEVENTH PLAN PERIOD
The Planning Commission has constituted an Expert Committee called Integrated
Energy Policy Report (IEPR) covering all sources of energy including renewable
energy sources. This report has highlighted the need to maximally develop domestic
supply options and diversify energy sources. It has also projected that renewables
may account for 5 to 6 per cent of India’s energy mix by 2031-32 and has observed
that the distributed nature of renewables can provide many socio-economic benefits
for the country, including its rural, tribal and remote areas.
The recommendations of the IEPR are yet to be accepted by the Government.
Meanwhile, the Ministry has proposed an outlay of Rs.10,460 crore for the 11th Plan
period for development of new and renewable energy in the country.
The Ministry has provided assistance for various renewable energy schemes and
programmes. Under small hydro power projects, Rs. 135.59 crore have been allotted
during 2004-05 to 2006-07. Biomass Power schemes have been provided financial
assistance to the tune of Rs. 33crores and Biomass Gasifier Projects nearly Rs. 14
crores. Various schemes to produce energy from wastes received Rs.15 crore as
Central Financial Assistance. During the same period Wind Power Projects were
given Rs.22.80 crore, Biogas Plants got Rs.101 crore, Small Wind Energy Systems
got Rs. 8.5 crores, Solar Photovoltaic Systems Rs. 92 crores, Solar Thermal
Projects, Rs. 44 crores and Remote Village Electrification got Rs. 122 crores.

Sunday, November 25, 2007

BIOMASS ATLAS TO ASSESS RENEWABLE ENERGY POTENTIAL FROM
AGRO RESIDUES
India is implementing one of the world’s largest programmes in renewable energy.
The country ranks second in the World in Biogas utilization and fifth in Wind Power
and Photovoltaic production. A potential of 45,000 MWe from around 20mha of
wastelands assumed to be yielding 10MT/ha/annum of woody biomass having 4000
k-cal/kg with system efficiency of 30% and 75% PLF has not been taken into
account. In order to realize this potential a major inter-Ministerial initiative is required.
A Biomass Atlas is under preparation which is expected to more accurately assess
state-wise renewable energy potential from agro-residues.
Potential based on areas having wind power density (wpd) greater than 200
W/m2 assuming land availability in potential areas @ 1 per cent and requirement of
wind farms @ 12 ha/MW, not all of which may be technically feasible and
economically viable for grid-interactive wind power.
Technically feasible and economically viable hydro potential is generally
accepted at 40% of the total estimated potential. Accordingly, the technically feasible
and economically viable small hydropower potential could be around 6000MW.
With the establishment of new sugar mills and modernization of existing
ones, technically feasible potential is assessed at 5000 Mwe. Current technically
feasible municipal waste-to-energy potential is assessed at 1700 Mwe.

Monday, November 26, 2007

MADHYA PRADESH GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSAL FOR ELECTRIFICATION
OF 185 VILLAGES IN REMOTE AREAS
Rajya Sabha
Madhya Pradesh Government has forwarded proposals to the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy for electrification of 185 villages located in inaccessible and forest
areas. Out of these, proposals for 116 villages were submitted by 2004-05. The
Ministry sanctioned financial support for electrification of 48 of these villages.
However, projects in 18 villages were later cancelled by Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas
Nigam Ltd.(MPUVN). From 2005-06 onwards, it was decided to provide financial
support under the Remote Village Electrification Programme for only those villages
which are identified by the Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) for unfeasibility of
electrification through grid connectivity. Proposals complete in all respects for
electrification of 150 such REC identified villages, received from MPUVN have been
approved by the Ministry for financial support. The work has been taken up on priority
basis by MPUVN and so far it has been completed in 70 villages.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, Sh.Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question in the Rajya
Sabha today.

SIX WIND POWER PROJECTS IN RAJASTHAN
Rajya Sabha
There is potential for setting up wind power projects at six locations in Rajasthan.
This indication came after wind resource assessment studies were carried out at 38
locations in Rajasthan .They have wind power density of 200 watts per square meter
or more. Based on this, a gross wind power potential of 5400 MW has been
estimated in the state assuming land availability @ 1% of potential areas and wind
farm land requirement @ 12 Hectares per MW.
A wind power installed capacity of 494 MW has been set up in the State of Rajasthan
upto September, 2007. The Government of India promotes setting up of commercial
wind power projects in the country, including in the State of Rajasthan, by providing
fiscal incentives such as concessional import duty on certain components of wind
electricity generator, excise duty exemption, ten years tax holiday on income
generated from wind power projects, benefit of accelerated depreciation and loan
from Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA). Technical support
including detailed wind resource assessment to identify further potential sites is
provided by the Centre for Wind Energy Technology (C-WET). This apart, preferential
tariff is being provided for wind power in most of the potential States, including
Rajasthan.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, Sh.Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question in the Rajya
Sabha today.

IREDA PRESENTS DIVIDEND CHEQUE WORTH RS. 7 CRORE FOR 2007-08
Indian Renewable Energy Developer Agency Limited (IREDA), a public sector
enterprise under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy presented a cheque of
Rs 7 crore to the Government for the financial year 2007-07 towards dividend. The
dividend cheque was presented by Sh. Debashish Majumdar, Chairman and
Managing Director to Sh Vilas Muttemwar , Minister of State for New and Renewable
Energy in a function today.
During the year IREDA’s performance has been rated as very good in terms of MoU
signed with the Government of India. It sanctioned additional 33 projects involving
loan commitment of Rs 588.51 crore. IREDA also disbursed a sum of 410.87 crore
during the year. Cumulatively it has sanctioned 1816 projects involving loan
commitment of Rs. 8039.50 crore till March, 2007. The cumulative disbursement
stands at Rs 4429.46 crore.
A major chunk of the loan amount sanctioned during the financial year was for the
establishment of 258.91 MW capacity of power generation and conventional fuel
replacement. The cumulative Mega Watt (MW) and conventional fuel replacement till
31st March, 2007 since inception through renewable energy projects sanctioned by
IREDA was 2927 MW and 12.91 lakh (MTCR/year) respectively.
IREDA has a target of Rs 714 crore and Rs. 550 crore towards loan sanctions and
disbursements respectively for the year 2007-08, in terms of MoU signed with the
Government.

INDIA AND JAPAN TO COOPERATE IN RENEWABLE ENERGY
Rajya Sabha
A Working Group on New and Renewable Energy has been established under the
India-Japan Energy Dialogue to coordinate cooperation activities in new and
renewable energy.
The first meeting of the Working Group was held on the 28th June 2007 at New Delhi
wherein it was decided that both sides will explore ways and means to further
cooperation in the field of new and renewable energy.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, Sh.Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question in the Rajya
Sabha today.

SUITABLE CONCESSIONS TO ENCOURAGE USE OF NON-CONVENTIONAL
ENERGY SOURCES
Rajya Sabha
The government has been providing several concessions in the form of fiscal and
financial incentives to encourage the use of renewable energy sources. These
include capital/interest subsidy, accelerated depreciation, nil/ concessional excise
and customs duties. Further, as applicable to all new infrastructure projects, profits
earned from sale of renewable power are exempt from Income Tax for any 10 years
out of the first 15 years of project’s operation. This apart, preferential tariff for grid
interactive renewable power is being given in most potential States.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, Sh.Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question in the Rajya
Sabha today.

NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY ASSUMING SIGNIFICANCE
Rajya Sabha
New and renewable energy has been assuming increasing significance in recent
times with the growing concern for the country’s energy security and environment.
Bulk of the energy needs of the common man come from renewable energy, mainly
agro and forest residues as well as animal wastes. Already, over 40 lakh family size
biogas plants, about 14 lakh solar photovoltaic systems for lighting and other
applications and solar thermal systems covering 20 lakh square meters collector area
have been installed. Beside, about 11,000 MW power from renewables has been
added to the electricity grids.
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is supporting deployment of renewable
energy systems by providing fiscal and financial support to reduce the capital costs of
these systems.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, Sh. Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question in the Rajya
Sabha today.

Friday, November 30, 2007

94 MW ENERGY FROM URBAN AND INDUSTRIAL WASTE
Lok Sabha
A total of 52 projects with an aggregate capacity of about 95 MW on energy recovery
from Urban and Industrial Wastes have so far been taken up in ten States. There are
seven projects with 19.50 MWeq have been completed in five States namely Andhra
Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh where as one project with 3
MWeq is under installation in Gujarat. These projects are based on urban waste like
Municipal solid waste, vegetable market waste, bio-gas at sewage treatment plants
and cattle dung. Ten States in the country have projects based on industrial waste
with a total capacity of 72.19 MWeq. This project use waste from distillery, abattoir,
slaughterhouses, food processing and paper units, tannery etc. The cost of each
project varies depending upon its location, capacity, waste characteristics,
technology deployed and the nature of the project, whether demonstration or
commercial.
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is promoting Energy Recovery from Wastes
through separate Programmes for Urban and Industrial Wastes. The programmes
also provide for capacity buildings, dissemination of information and creation of
awareness through training programmes, workshops, seminars, etc.
The projects can be taken up by urban local bodies and other Government
organizations or through public private partnership. Private developers and industries
having adequate technical financial and managerial capabilities are also eligible to
undertake the projects.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to question in the Lok
Sabha today.

INTEGRATED RURAL ENERGY PROGRAMME
Lok Sabha
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy had been implementing the
centrally sponsored scheme Modified Integrated Rural Energy Programme (IREP) on
50:50 cost sharing basis with the States from 2003-04 to 2006-07. The programme
aimed at development of planning and institutional capabilities of the States to
prepare and implement rural energy projects in the selected clusters of villages.
Renewable Energy and energy conservation devices were installed in the projects
taken up under the programme to meet energy needs in identified village clusters.
Five IREP Training Centres were also set up in Bakoli (Delhi), Lucknow (Uttar
Pradesh), Anand (Gujarat), Bangalore (Karnataka) and Shillong (Meghalaya) with
support from the programme. Under the IREP Programme, there was a provision
for preparing the micro-level energy plans for selected clusters of villages. The
Programme was implemented upto Tenth Five Year Plan i.e. upto 2006-07 only.
The modified IREP scheme was implemented in 21 States / UTs covering
323 districts in the country. The State-wise details of villages taken up under the
programme as on 31.03.2007 are given in the Annexure. A budget provision of
Rs.10 crores has been made in the current financial year for meeting the 10th Plan
spillover liabilities of the programme. Further, a provision for one time grant to States
for the five training Centres in the current financial year has also been proposed.

Monday, December 3, 2007

BIOMASS POWER POTENTIAL OF ABOUT 18,000 MWE FROM THE
SURPLUS AGRO RESIDUES
Rajya Sabha
The Government has sponsored a project on “National Biomass Resource Atlas” to
the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. available in the country, excluding biomass
plantation. Further, a potential of 5,000 MW of surplus power generation through
optimum bagasse based cogeneration has been estimated in the existing sugar mills
of the country, with a crushing capacity of 2,500 Tonnes Cane Crushed per Day
(TCD).
A cumulative capacity of 1,140 MW including bagasse cogeneration, was installed for
generation of power from biomass, till March, 2007.
A target for addition of 1,700 MW capacity, consisting of 500 MW of biomass power
projects and 1,200 MW of bagasse cogeneration projects has been proposed during
XIth plan period i.e. upto 2012.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, , Sh Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question in the
Rajya Sabha today.

BIO-MASS PROJECTS
Rajya Sabha
The Government is encouraging promotion of biomass based off-grid small power
projects for meeting unmet demand of electricity in electrified / un-electrified villages
in the country under various programmes viz Village Energy Security Programme
(VESP), Remote Village Electrification Programme (RVEP) and Biomass Gasifier
programme.
Biomass based systems / devices are encouraged for meeting inter-alia electricity
needs under VESP. The RVEP aims to provide basic facilities of lighting / electricity
in those remote, un-electrified census villages and remote un-electrified hamlets of
electrified census villages, where grid connectivity is either not feasible or not cost
effective, through various renewable energy sources, including biomass. Under
RVEP, support has been provided for electrification of 47 villages / hamlets using
biomass gasifier systems in the country including 10 villages / hamlets in Orissa. A
total of 78 test projects have been taken up under VESP for implementation in 11
states including 12 test projects in Orissa.
So far, 608 small hydro power projects (upto 25 MW station capacity) with an
aggregate capacity of 2015 MW have been set up in the country. The annual
estimated generation from these projects is 4028 million units per year. A target of
adding 1400 MW from small hydro power has been planned during the 11th Five
Year Plan.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, Sh Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question in the Rajya
Sabha today.

WIND POWER GENERATION ON THE EAST COAST
Rajya Sabha
39 sites which could be considered suitable for wind power development have been
identified in the East Coast.Wind surveys have been conducted in costal areas
including East Coast under the Wind Resource Assessment programme of the
Ministry
216 potential sites in 13 States/Union Territories have been identified as otential sites
for setting up of wind power projects including 32 sites in the State of Andhra
Pradesh. A wind power potential of about 8200 MW has been estimated in the State
of Andhra Pradesh.
The Government promotes setting up of commercial wind power projects in the
country, by providing fiscal incentives such as concessional import duty on certain
components of wind electricity generator, excise duty exemption, ten years tax
holiday on income generated from wind power projects, benefit of accelerated
depreciation and loan from Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA).
Technical support including detailed wind resource assessment to identify further
potential sites is provided by the Centre for Wind Energy Technology (C-WET). This
apart, preferential tariff is being provided for wind power in most of the potential
States.
Wind power projects are mostly set up as commercial projects with private
investments in potential states. A wind power installed capacity of 7660 MW has
been achieved in the country. It includes demonstration wind farm projects of 71 MW
supported by the Ministry with the objective to open up potential areas for commercial
development of wind power. Central Financial Assistance (CFA) is provided for
setting up demonstration projects in those states, where commercial activity has not
yet been initiated. The Ministry, Wind turbine manufacturers, Wind Power
Associations, O&M providers, State Nodal Agencies etc. participate in various
exhibitions to highlight the benefit and create awareness about wind energy.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, , Sh Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question in the
Rajya Sabha today.

SOME ZONES ON THE LINES LIKE SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES TO BE SET
UP FOR NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS
Rajya Sabha
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will extend all help, support and cooperation
if such SEZs are for manufacture of renewable energy equipment.
Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have
evinced interest to facilitate setting up of such SEZs in those States. In addition,
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), a non-banking financial
company under the administrative control of this Ministry, is envisaging formation of a
Special Purpose Vehicle company for setting up, maintaining and managing a SEZ
for production of renewable energy equipment. IREDA is in the process of discussing
the issue with State Governments and private sector parties.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, , Sh Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question in the
Rajya Sabha today.
POLICY FOR NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY RESOURCES
Rajya Sabha
Under the Electricity Act 2003, National Electricity Policy 2005 and Tariff Policy 2006
it is obligatory upon State Electricity Regulatory Commissions to fix certain
percentage for purchase of power from renewable energy sources in the area of a
distribution licensee and to fix preferential tariffs for the same.Replying a question
whether Government is considering to make any comprehensive policy for
compulsory use of renewable energy resources through biomass, hydropower, wind,
solar and municipal waste in the country, particularly for commercial establishments,
as well as Government establishment, Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, Sh Vilas Muttemwarstated this in a in a written reply in the
Rajya Sabha today.

It was further stated that grid-interactive renewable power installed capacity in the
country has reached 11,063 MW as on 31.10.2007.The Government has been
providing several concessions in the form of fiscal and financial incentives to
encourage the use of renewable energy sources. These include capital/interest
subsidy, accelerated depreciation, nil/concessional excise and customs duties.
Further, as applicable to all new infrastructure projects, profits earned from sale of
renewable power are exempt from Income Tax for any 10 years out of the first 15
years of project’s operation. This apart, preferential tariff for grid interactive
renewable power is being given in most potential States. Publicity and awareness on
the use of renewable energy systems / devices is also created through print, postal
and electronic media and special events like the Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urja Diwas are
being organised. District-level Advisory Committees have been constituted in the
states to facilitate effective coordination of renewable energy schemes / programmes

PROMOTION AND USE OF BIO-DIESEL GETS TOP PRIORITY
Rajya Sabha The Government of India has given top priority for promotion and use
of bio-fuels, which includes bio-diesel and bio-ethanol. Considering the importance of
promotion and use of bio-fuels for transportation, stationary and other applications,
the Government of India has issued a Notification in July, 2006 giving specific
responsibilities to various Union Ministries and Departments. The Government
emphasise use of non-edible oils such as Jatropha curcas, Pongmia pinnata oils, etc.
for production of bio-diesel and use of forest & non-forest wastelands for plantation of
non-edible oil seed bearing plants.
The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy has sponsored Reasearch and
Development projects on bio-fuels to some leading R&D Institutions. Process
parameters for production of bio-diesel from JatroPha curcas (Ratanjot) and
Pongamia pinnata (Karanja) have been optimized; field trials on diesel car have been
carried out with different levels of blend of bio-diesel produced from Jatropha and
Pongamia with diesel. The vehicle response has been found to be comparable with
diesel vehicles. A 200 liter capacity per batch bio-diesel reactor has been designed,
fabricated and developed. The MNRE has prepared a Draft National Policy on Biofuels,
which is under consideration of Govt. of India.
The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) has provided financial support to nine
States in 2005-06 for raising of about 18 crore seedlings of Jatropha and Pongamia
and to 18 States in 2006-07 for raising of another about 18 crore seedlings of these
plants. The proposal of the MoRD for establishment of the National Mission on Biodiesel
and launch of its demonstration phase (Phase-I) is under consideration of
Government of India.
Department of Bio-Technology has initiated a Micro-mission programme on
production and demonstration of superior quality planting material of Jatropha based
on oil content of 30-35% and seed yield of 3-5 tonnes per hectare. They have raised
22.48 lakh plants under nursery at different places and have initiated R&D projects
for improvement of oil quality and seed yield and identification of superior varieties.
The Ministry of Agriculture through National Oil Seeds and Vegetable Oils
Development (NOVOD) Board is promoting Jatropha and Pongamia under the
Scheme of Integrated Development of Tree borne oil seeds. The NOVOD Board has
undertaken model plantation of Jatropha in about 10,000 hectare area and Karanja in
about 1400 hectare area for producing parent material for undertaking large scale
plantation. NOVOD Board have identified elite planting material of Jatropha and
pongamia under their R&D programme and have preserved the germ plasm.
Besides, NOVOD Board has sanctioned model plantation of Jatropha in 1445 hectare
and Karanja in 55 hectare during 2007-08.
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), under All India Coordinated
Research Project (AICRP) on agro-forestry, have initiated efforts in respect of
Jatropha for collection of germ plasm, evaluation trials for growth, seed yield and oil
content, hybridization, reproductive biology, agri-silvicultural trials, molecular
characterization, biochemical activities and farmers training. ICAR has identified a
Jatropha variety for commercial cultivation.
Presently, the activities initiated on research & development for development of
superior quality planting materials and bio-diesel production technologies, testing of
diesel engines using bio-diesel and their demonstration have been initiated.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, Sh Vilas Muttemwar. in a written reply to a question in the Rajya
Sabha today.

ASSISTANCE TO DARJEELING HILL AREA FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY
Rajya Sabha
The Government is committed to extend 90 per cent subsidy under the Remote
Village Electrification programme to all remote villages including those in the State of
West Bengal A request from West Bengal to declare hills of Darjeeling as a special
category area was received by the government, but it has not been approved.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, Sh Vilas Muttemwar . in a written reply to a question in the
Rajya Sabha today.

ERECTION OF WIND MILLS IN TAMIL NADU
RAJYA SABHA
A wind power capacity of 3700 MW has already been installed in the State of Tamil
Nadu upto September, 2007 in locations lying mostly in Palghat, Shengottah, and
Aralvoimozhi passes. About 300 MW capacity Wind Power Projects is likely to be
added in the State upto March, 2008.
Total quantum of electricity likely to be generated is about 26 Billion Units from these
projects. New Wind Power Projects have been planned in Theni Circle of Theni
District in Tamil Nadu.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Sources, Sh Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question in the Rajya
Sabha today.

Friday, December 7, 2007

MORE THAN RS. 72 CRORES ON R & D IN NEW RENEWABLE ENERGY
LOK SABHA
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy supports Research, Design and
Development activities in various areas of Renewable Energy including solar energy
in the country. More than 550 projects in the aforesaid technology areas have been
financially supported.
During the 10th Five Year Plan period an expenditure of Rs. 72.65 crore has been
incurred on Research and Development in the area of New and Renewable Energy
which includes Rs. 13.15 crore on solar energy.
An amount of Rs. 1500 crore has been proposed for Research, Design and
Development in New and Renewable Energy for the 11th Five Year Plan. Guidelines
for supporting and accelerating these activities leading to eventual manufacture and
deployment of various Renewable Energy Systems including solar energy have been
put in place. In addition, during the 11th Plan Period various types of fiscal and
financial incentives have been proposed to provide promotion for various solar
energy systems and devices in the country.
The Ministry supports Research, Design and Development in New and Renewable
energy at various universities, institutions and industry in the country. In addition,
following specialized Centres have been set up/ supported by the Ministry
specializing in the area of solar energy, wind energy, small hydro power and biomass
energy:-
i) Solar Energy Centre, Gwalpahari, Gurgaon (Haryana),
ii) Centre for Wind Energy Technology (C-WET), Chennai (Tamil Nadu),
iii) Alternate Hydro Energy Centre (AHEC), IIT Roorkee (Uttaranchal), and
iv) Sardar Swaran Singh National Institute of Renewable Energy (SSSNIRE),
Kapurthala (Punjab) - in the process of establishment.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to question in the Lok
Sabha today.

ADDITION OF 1700 MW BIOMASS CO-GENERATION POWER BY 2012
Lok Sabha
A target for addition of 1,700 MW capacity, consisting of 500 MW of biomass power
projects and 1,200 MW of bagasse cogeneration projects has been proposed during
XIth plan period i.e. upto 2012. A cumulative biomass power potential of about
18,000 MWe from the surplus agro residues have been estimated in the country. This
has been stated in the National Biomass Resource Atlas prepared by Indian Institute
of Science, Bangalore, under a project sponsored by the Ministry,. The States of
Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh,
Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil
Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal are having potential for setting up biomass
based power projects of 100 MW or above. The biomass power potential in the
identified districts of the above States ranges from 10 MW to 100 MW. Sugar mills
having crushing capacity of 2500 Tonnes of cane crushed per day in the States of
Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar,
Gujarat, Punjab and Haryana have an estimated potential of about 5000 MW surplus
power generation through optimum bagasse based cogeneration.
The Government is providing incentives for setting up of power generation projects
based on biomass and bagasse cogeneration in the form of capital subsidy and fiscal
incentives such as accelerated depreciation, relief from taxes and duties, term loans
from Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA). This apart, policies
have been introduced in potential states for wheeling, banking and buy-back of
electricity generated from commercial biomass power and bagasse cogeneration
projects.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to question in the Lok
Sabha today.

DURGADUANI TIDAL POWER PROJECT IN WEST BENGAL
Lok Sabha
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has agreed to Mini Tidal Power Project
in Durgaduani, Sunderbans Islands, West Bengal, in principle. The formal sanction
would be issued after the approval for investment is obtained. This project will have
3.65 MW capacity. The West Bengal Renewable Energy Development Agency
(WBREDA) earlier submitted a Detailed Project Report (DPR) in 2001 for setting up
this project. On advice after examination by an Expert Group, WBREDA obtained
required statutory clearances and also revised the cost estimates before
resubmission to the Ministry in June,2006. The revised cost estimates were Rs.40.15
crores.
WBREDA entered into an MOU with the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation
Limited (NHPC), Faridabad for updation and upgradation of this DPR and its
execution. The updated DPR prepared by NHPC has been received in the Ministry in
November, 2007 and is under examination.
As per this DPR, the project capacity has been raised to 3.75 MW with cost
projections of Rs.53.98 crores and project completion period of 33 months from the
date of sanction. The Ministry has already agreed to it in principle.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to question in the Lok
Sabha today.

INTEGRATED ENERGY POLICY ON RENEWABLE ENERGY
LOK SABHA
An Expert Committee constituted by the Planning Commission has prepared an
Integrated Energy Policy Report (IEPR) covering all sources of energy including
renewable energy sources. This report has highlighted the need to maximally
develop domestic supply options and diversify energy sources. It has also projected
that renewables may account for 5 to 6 per cent of India’s energy mix by 2031-32 and
has observed that the distributed nature of renewables can provide many socioeconomic
benefits for the country, specially in remote and rural areas.
The recommendations of the IEPR are yet to be accepted by the Government.
This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to question in the Lok
Sabha today.

Saturday, December 8, 2007

PRODUCTION OF EQUIPMENTS FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy stands committed to facilitate and
promote all efforts to establish dedicated Special Economic Zones for production of
equipment involved in the renewable energy generation sector by domestic as well
as foreign investors.
Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have
evinced interest to facilitate setting up of SEZs for renewable energy sector.
Discussions with the interested State Governments and Investors are ongoing, with
active participation of IREDA.

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

‘MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS ON RENEWABLE ENERGY’
Shri Vilas Muttemwar, Hon’ble Minister for New and Renewable Energy, said that
there is lack of knowledge and information about Renewable energy and its various
sources. Releasing a book titled ‘Multiple Choice Questions on Renewable Energy’
today, he said that this publication is coming at a vary appropriate time when a
number of programmes have been taken by the Ministry to create awareness about
renewable energy. Congratulating its Author, Dr. Arun K.Tripathi, the Minister said
that this is a remarkable work. The Ministry has started Quiz Programmes for School
Children all over India on visual channels.
Shri V. Subramanian, Secretary, MNRE, said we had to frame Questions and
Answers and give them for Quiz Programmes. At the same time we received a
number of questions from School Children. Shri Subramanian added that this was the
point, when we felt a need of knowledge bank on this subject. Courses in
Engineering Colleges will also have detailed subjects on Renewable Energy and its
uses.
This book contains over 1500 multiple choice questions covering various sectors of
Renewable Energy, including solar, wind, biomass, biogas, biofuels, hydro, energy
form wastes, hydrogen, geothermal, ocean, tidal and waves. This book has three
levels of questions, ranging from school to graduate levels. A comprehensive
overview of renewable energy development in India has also been presented. This
book is useful for the academicians, students pursuing engineering or agriculture
related courses, aspirants of various competitive exams, professionals and the
stakeholders in the Renewable Energy sector. It can also be used for quiz
Programmes organized in schools, universities, engineering institutions and on
Television.
This book has been written by Dr. Arun K Tripathi, Director Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy and has been published by TERI Press, New Delhi

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Wednesday, January 02, 2008

MNRE DECLARES GENERATION BASED INCENTIVE FOR THE FIRST TIME
50 MW SOLAR POWER PLANTS DURING 11TH FIVE-YEAR P
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy launches a new scheme for installation
of Megawatt Capacity Grid Interactive Solar Power Plants. During interaction with
media today, Minister of State for New & Renewable Energy, Shri Vilas Muttemwar
said the Ministry will provide financial assistance amounting to Rs.12 per KW hour in
case of solar photovoltaic and Rs.10/KW hour in case of solar thermal power fed to
the electricity grid.
50MW solar power plants have been considered for the 11th Five Year Plan period.
A maximum of 10MW capacity in State will be considered under this scheme. It will
be implemented through Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA).
The Private sectors will invest about Rs.1,000 crore as developers. The Ministry has
decided to provide generation based incentive for grid interactive solar power
generation for the first time. Under this project the Ministry will provide a generation
based incentive of a maximum of Rs.12 per KWh for the electricity generated from
Solar Photovoltaic and the maximum of Rs.10 per KWh for the electricity generated
through Solar Thermal Power Plants and fed to the grid from a grid interactive solar
power plant of a capacity of 1 MWp and above. Shri Muttemwar explained that this
incentive will be provided to the project developers at a fix rate for a period of ten
years. Mr. Muttemwar clarified that this incentive will be worked out taking into
account the tariff provided by the utility to the solar power producer. The utilities are
expected to purchase solar power at the rate provided by the utilities for medium term
power purchase of the highest rate fixed by the State Electricity Regulatory
Commission for purchase of power for any other renewable energy source.
Mr. Muttemwar said this programme will be limited to an aggregate installed capacity
of 50MWp of Solar Power during the 11th Plan period. He also informed that each
State will be allowed to set up upto 10MWp aggregate capacity under this
programme. Additional investments of about Rs. 1000 crores is expected through this
initiative from this private sector. The developers are expected to get land allotted
from the State and will have to enter into PPA for seeking generation based incentive
from IREDA who will approve the proposals on first come first serve basis. This
scheme is also expected to increase the direct and indirect employment
opportunities. On average each MW of solar manufacturing capacity is likely to
produce 25 to 40 direct jobs and solar power plants are expected to create another
400 indirect jobs.

Thursday, January 17, 2008

22 TEST PROJECTS ON VILLAGE ENERGY SECURITY PROGRAMME
COMPLETED
IREDA ACHIEVES 50% TARGET FOR THE YEAR 2007-08 FOR LOAN
DISBURSEMENT
More than 57 MW of Wind Power capacity has been commissioned in the country
during last month under Grid Connected Sector. With these achievements in the
sector to 623.37 MW against a target of 1500 MW for 2007-08 and cumulative
achievement in the sector reaches to 7717.27 MW.
During the same period, 20.25 MW of Biomass Power capacity was also
commissioned taking the achievement in the sector to 132.50 MW against a target of
275 MW for 2007-08.This takes cumulative achievement in the sector to 1273.13
MW.
Under Off-Grid Systems, 9.00 MW biomass co-generation (non-bagasse) project
were commissioned during the month. The cumulative achievement in the sector
reaches to 40.20 MW.
Besides this, 8 projects have been completed in the States of Chhatisgarh, Gujarat,
Orissa & West Bengal during the month under Test Projects on Village Energy
Security Programme. A total of 22 test projects have been completed so far.
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited disbursed a loan amount of
Rs.21.29 crore during this period taking the cumulative disbursement of Rs. 255.22
crore against a target of Rs.550 crore for 2007-08

Friday, February 1, 2008

EDUCATE STAKEHOLDERS IN BIO-DIESEL CHAIN – VILAS MUTTEMWAR
Development of Bio-fuels as an alternative and renewable source of energy is critical
in India’s efforts towards self-reliance. Addressing the Second National Convention
and Exhibition on Bio-diesel today Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy
Shri Vilas Muttemwar said that this is corner stone of India’s energy security strategy.
Shri Muttemwar said 84 per cent of rural households in the country have primary
source of cooking energy as fuel wood, agricultural residues and dung cakes. In such
energy scenario there are major challenges in providing clean and affordable energy
to all. The Minister said use of bio-ethanol and bio-diesel has positive impact on
stationary applications for various rural energy systems. It has been successfully
demonstrated under Village Energy Security Programme of the Ministry. The Minister
also informed that a National policy on bio-fuels has been prepared and is under
active consideration of the Government. The Policy outlines the strategy to achieve
energy security in the country through sustainable production, conversion and
application of bio-fuels.
The Minister welcomed extensive research and development work to identify and
promote plantation of variety of non-edible oil producing trees and shrubs in different
agro-climatic regions. Shri Muttemwer informed that the Government has recently
approve mandatory blending of 10 per cent of ethanol with petrol from last October in
the country except in Northeastern States, some smaller States and Union
Territories. The Minister stressed on need of considering availability of quality
planning material, suitability of wastelands, rainfall, suitable agronomic practices for
cultivation of non-edible oil seed producing plants. The stakeholders in the entire
chain of bio-diesel production, conversion and utilization need to be educated and
awareness needs to be created.
The two-day National Convention will discuss on policy issues, feedstock, plantation
and related issues.

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

INDIA AND EU TO STRENGTHEN CO-OPERATION IN RENEWABLE
ENERGY RESEARCH
India and the European Union have agreed to strengthen co-operation in the area of
new and renewable energy on the basis of common interest and mutual benefit under
the EU-India Science and Technology Co-operation Agreement. Both sides attach
high priority to sustainable development of energy systems to jointly meet the
challenges of energy security and climate change. At a Workshop held at New Delhi,
the two sides identified strategic areas and topics for research and technology
development co-operation in solar photovoltaics, solar thermal power generation,
wind energy, biomass and waste-to-energy. Apart from these areas, the Indian side
also expressed interest for cooperation in hydrogen, fuel cells and biofuels.
Science and Technology co-operation in the renewable energy sector would include
joint studies and research; technology and product development; setting up of pilot
demonstration units; capacity building covering testing, standards, best practices,
exchange of information and experts, training etc. Mechanisms and instruments for
co-operation could include participation of India in the EU Framework Programme,
Technology Platforms for Renewable Energy, European Industrial Initiatives and
Specific International Co-operation Actions.
The Framework Programmes are the main instrument of the European Commission
for funding research. Energy, including renewable energy, is an important focus area.
Under the Seventh Framework Programme which runs from 2007 to 2013, it has
been decided to issue an India-EU Call for Research and Technology Development
proposals in renewable energy in the areas identified at the Workshop. Co-operation
between research institutions in various EU countries and Indian research institutions
would be on the basis of co-investment of resources, including funding to the tune of
Rs.30 crores each by the European Commission and the Government of India.
The Workshop was organized by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in
association with the Directorate General Research of the European Commission and
the Department of Science and Technology. It was attended by scientists and experts
and delegates from leading institutions who are active in renewable energy research
and technology development, apart from officials from both the sides

Friday, March 28, 2008

RS. 600 CRORE ALLOCATION FOR RESEARCH, DESIGN AND
DEVELOPMENT FOR THE 11TH FIVE-YEAR PLAN
NEW SCHEMES TO ENCOURAGE USE OF SOLAR ENERGY ON LARGE SCALE
An amount of Rs. 600 crore has been tentatively allocated for Research, Design and
Development in New and Renewable Energy Sector for the 11th Five Year Plan.
During the last Five Year Plan period, Rs. 72.65 crore were spent for the same
activities by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy. The Ministry has financially
sported about 600 RD&D Projects particularly in Slo9ar Energy Sector.
The Ministry has launched some new schemes in addition to implementation of
ongoing schemes to encourage large-scale use of solar energy in the country during
the 11th Five Year Plan Period. The new schemes include ‘Development of Solar
Cities’ and ‘Demonstration Programme on MW size Grid Solar Power Generation’. In
addition, Research and Development thrust areas for solar and other New and
Renewable Energy Technologies for the 11th Five Year Plan period have also been
identified and publicized through newspaper and website advertisements for further
intensifying research and technology development in this area. Promotional
measures taken by the Government and other associated agencies include publicity
and awareness campaigns, amendment of building bye-laws for making the use of
solar water heaters mandatory in certain categories of buildings, rebate in property
tax/electricity tariff to the users of solar water heaters, etc.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy supports Research, Design and
Development (RD&D) activities in New and Renewable Energy including solar energy
in the country. Comprehensive guidelines for supporting and accelerating pace of
Research, Design and Development leading to eventual manufacture and
deployment of various Renewable Energy Systems including solar energy have been
put in place.

ALTERNATIVE FUEL FOR TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS
10% BLENDING OF ETHANOL MANDATORY FROM THIS YEAR
Under alternative fuel for transportation systems, 10% Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP)
becomes mandatory from coming October. Earlier 5% blending of Ethanol with petrol
was made mandatory by the Government since 9th October 2007 in the Country and
10% blending was made optional. During the last three years the Government has
taken various steps to develop and promote use of alternative fuels like ethanol, biodiesel
and hydrogen for transport applications.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoP&NG) has mandated the use of 5%
Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP), subject to commercial viability in the entire country
with effect from 1st November 2006. Though North-Eastern States, Jammu &
Kashmir, Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshdweep have been exempted. As a
result, release of 5% EBP has commenced at all locations in 15 States and 4 Union
Territories.
The modalities for implementation are being worked out by the Ministry of Petroleum
& Natural Gas in consultation with stakeholders. A broad based programme for
research & development, production and utilization of bio-diesel is under
implementation by different Ministries.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has also prepared a Draft
National Policy on Bio-fuels. Under its ongoing Research, Development and
Demonstration Programmes, MNRE has supported field trials of different blends of
bio-diesel in diesel cars, use of hydrogen as fuel in motorcycles and three-wheelers
and introduction of hydrogen - compressed natural gas (CNG) blends in different
vehicles. In addition, support is also being provided for development & promotion of
battery operated vehicles.

BIO-DIESEL PLANTATIONS IN ANDHRA PRADESH
Andhra Pradesh will raise Bio-diesel Plantations over 8,800 hectares spreading over
16 districts of state. The plants which are being raised are pongamia. The total cost
for this plantation has been estimated at Rs.2341.49 lakh. The National Bank for
Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has sanctioned Rural Infrastructure
Development Fund (RIDF) XIII Bio-diesel project for Andhra Pradesh.
Out of the total outlay of bio-diesel project of Rs.2341.49 lakh, Rs.2224.46 lakh is
loan component from NABARD and Rs.117.03 lakh is Government share. The
Government of Andhra Pradesh is yet to grant Administrative Approval. However,
Rs.20.00 crore has been released during the year 2007-08 under the previous RIDF
bio-diesel project and an expenditure of Rs.13.28 crores has been incurred for raising
bio-diesel plantations.
The tree borne oilseeds have promising potential to supplement vegetables oil supply
in the country. These oilseeds grow in poor soils under low rainfall conditions without
competing with annual food crops thus filling gaps in ecological niche. Promotion and
development of such crops also help societal needs of eco-conservation, expansion
of rural industries, rural employment generation and also supplement the supply of
alternate fuel to petro-diesel thus conserving the forex reserves

INSTALLATION OF 9 SOLAR ENERGY PLANTS IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF
THE COUNTRY DURING LAST YEAR
The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy promoted deployment of 9 Solar Energy
Plants during 2007-08 in 6 States of the Country. Out of this, Maharashtra tops the
list with 3 Plants where as, Jammu & Kashmir got two such plants. Chhattisgarh,
Haryana, Orissa and West Bengal each got one power plant during this period. The
total capacity sanctioned for these plants is less than 2000 kWp. The capacity under
implementation is more than 800 kWp.
Out of different Plant Projects, all the 6 states have received one Solar Photovoltaic
Power Plant Project. The state of West Bengal has been sanctioned highest capacity
of 945.0 kWp followed by Chhattisgarh with 646.8 kWp. Besides these, Jammu &
Kashmir and Maharashtra, each have been sanctioned Building Integrated
Photovoltaic Power Plants (BIPV) with total sanctioned capacity of 18 kWp and one
each SPV Power Pack of total sanctioned capacity of 8 kWp.
The Ministry is promoting deployment of solar photovoltaic power packs/plants in
different parts of the country under various programmes including remote village
electrification programme by providing partial financial support. These projects are
implemented through the state implementing agencies in their respective states. The
total funds released to the state agencies are to the tune of Rs. 40 crores which
includes funds for four ongoing projects also. These projects are likely to be
completed during 2008-09.
The projects for installation of solar photovoltaic power packs/plants are considered
by the Ministry on the basis of proposals submitted by the States, as per provisions of
the scheme, and availability of funds.

Monday, March 31, 2008

TOTAL 33 GRID INTERACTIVE SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER PLANTS
INSTALLED
ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION TO REACH 2.55 MILLION UNITS IN A YEAR
A total of 33 grid interactive solar photovoltaic power plants have been installed in the
country with financial support from the Government. These plants, with aggregate
capacity of 2.12 Megawatt, are estimated to generate about 2.55 million units of
electricity in a year. In addition, around 14.5 lakh decentralized off-grid solar
photovoltaic systems aggregating to about 125 Megawatt capacity have been
installed in the country, which is capable of generating about 150 million units in a
year. Further, a collector area of about 2.15 million square meter has been installed
for solar water heating applications. The amount of energy generation depends on
the use pattern of the system and climate of the place. Typically, a solar water
heating system with 2 square meter of collector area can generate energy equivalent
to up to 1500 units of electricity when the system is used for about 300 days in a
year.
The Government has taken several measures to reduce the cost of solar energy
systems, which include: (i) research and development to improve their performance
and reduce the consumption of materials, (ii) subsidy on selected solar energy
systems; (iii) interest subsidy to provide soft loan to users and the manufacturers; (iv)
concessional or nil import duty on some of the raw materials, components and
products; (v) excise duty exemption; and (vi) 80% accelerated depreciation in the first
year etc.
Many incentive have been given to private agencies for research and generation of
solar energy. All academic, research institutions and industries, including the private
institutions are engaged in research in solar energy. They are eligible to receive grant
for undertaking R&D. In addition, expenditure on R&D by the private industries is
eligible for deduction from profits under Income Tax Act.
Under grid interactive solar power generation, private companies are eligible to get
production based incentive for power fed to the grid from megawatt capacity solar
power plants set up on build own and operate basis in the country.
Proposal from any project developer with a maximum aggregate capacity of 5 MW,
either through a single project or multiple projects of a minimum capacity of 1 MW
each, are being considered under the programme. Preference is given to the projects
from the States where the State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) have
announced or are in the process of announcing tariff for solar power.
For projects approved and commissioned by 31st December, 2009, the Ministry will
provide generation based incentive up to Rs.12 per kWh for solar photovoltaic power
and Rs.10 per kWh for solar thermal power after taking in to account the tariff
provided by the SERC or the utility.

FORMULATION OF INCENTIVE SCHEMES FOR SOLAR
POWER PROJECTS FOR GENERATION OF SOLAR ENERGY
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has announced a demonstration
programme to support mega watt size grid interactive solar power generation
projects, up to a maximum capacity of 50 MW, in the country. Any registered
company, as project developer, would be eligible to set up solar power projects on
build, own and operate basis. Proposal from each project developer with a maximum
aggregate capacity of 5 MW, either through a single project or multiple projects of a
minimum capacity of 1 MW each, would be considered.
A maximum of 10 MW capacity solar power generation projects would be considered
in a State. Preference would be given to the projects from the States where the State
Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) have announced or are in the process
of announcing tariff for solar power.
For the projects approved and commissioned by 31st December, 2009, the Ministry
will provide generation based incentive up to Rs.12 per kWh for solar photovoltaic
power and Rs.10 per kWh for solar thermal power fed to the grid by the solar power
project developers, after taking in to account the tariff provided by the SERC or the
utility. The Ministry will also provide incentive to the concerned utility and the State
Nodal Agency, which will be involved in implementation and monitoring of the
projects in that State.

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

GRID-INTERACTIVE POWER INSTALLED CAPACITY FROM RENEWABLE
ENERGY SOURCES REACHES 10,250 MW IN THE 10TH PLAN
The grid-interactive power installed capacity from renewable energy sources in the
country has reaches to 10,250 MW at the end of the 10th Plan, i.e., upto 31.3.2007.
A capacity addition of 14,000 MW from renewable energy sources is proposed during
the 11th Plan. These sources are wind, biomass, solar and small hydro system.
To attract corporate/private investment in renewable energy sector, the Government
is providing a mix of fiscal and financial incentives that include capital/ interest
subsidy, accelerated depreciation, nil/ concessional excise and customs duties.
Further benefit under Section 80-1A of Income Tax Act 1961 is available to
undertakings setup for the generation or generation and distribution of Renewable
power in India. This apart, preferential tariff for grid interactive renewable power is
being given in most potential States.

SETTING UP OF NATIONAL BIOFUEL DEVELOPMENT BOARD
The Government is planning to set-up National Biofuel Development Board. Under
the Allocation of Business Rules, the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy has been
given the responsibility of setting up of a National Bio-fuel Development Board. The
proposal for setting up of the Board including its draft Terms of Reference and
composition has been submitted for necessary approvals.
The Ministry of Agriculture is providing subsidy through National Oilseeds and
Vegetable Oils Development (NOVOD) Board to the farmers, Non-Governmental
Organizations (NGOs), individuals etc. for production of Tree Borne Oilseeds (TBOs),
including bio-fuel crops, under the Integrated Development of Tree Borne Oilseeds
Scheme. Under this scheme, 30% credit linked subsidy is being provided, which is
linked with 50% term loan to be taken from bank, and 20% beneficiary share in the
form of land, labour etc. Further, the Ministry of Rural Development has provided
financial assistance to the tune of Rs.49.00 crore to 9 identified States in 2005-06
and Rs.49.50 crore to 15 States in 2006-07 for the purpose of raising
jatropha/pongamia seedlings and plantation of the same under the ongoing
States/Central Sector area development programmes

FUNDS FOR SOLAR ENERGY IN ASSAM
During 2007-08 a total of 750 solar home lighting systems, 50 solar street lighting
systems and 500 solar lanterns have been allocated to the State of Assam. In
addition, projects have also been sanctioned for electrification /lighting of 555 villages
through solar energy systems.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is implementing several programmes to
promote use of solar energy devices and systems in the country including the Solar
Photovoltaic Programme, Solar Photovoltaic Water Pumping Programme, Solar
Lantern Programme, and Solar Thermal Energy Programme. On the basis of
proposals received from the States agencies and the availability of funds the Ministry
allocates targets to them.
In addition, under the Remote Village Electrification programme unelectrified census
villages are electrified through renewable energy systems or provided solar lighting,
the proposals for which are considered by the Ministry on case to case basis.
There is no proposal to formulate any special scheme to provide solar energy
systems in the remote villages of Assam. 2139 villages in Assam including those in
Chhar areas have been identified by the State for coverage through renewable
energy sources, including solar energy systems.
The States submit proposals to the Ministry on the basis of the plans prepared by
them.

Monday, April 21, 2008

MORE THAN 4000 REMOTE VILLAGES AND HAMLETS ELECTRIFIED
RAJYA SABHA
The implementation of various programmes of Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy has resulted in the installation of over 11,000 MW grid interactive renewable
power and 208 MW equivalent off grid distributed renewable power by the end of
2007. Under the centralized energy systems 39.4 lakh family type biogas plants,
71,000 SPV street lighting systems, 4.03 lakhs SPV home lighting systems, 7.05 lakh
solar lanterns, 7148 SPV pumps, 6.17 lakh solar cookers and 2.3 million Sq. Meter
collector area for solar water heating systems have been installed. 3368 remote
villages and 830 hamlets have been electrified through renewable energy so far.
The Ministry is promoting deployment of various new and renewable energy systems
as well as devices through several measures.
This information was given in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha today
by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Vilas Muttemwar

RURAL ELECTRIFICATION IN CHHATTISGARH
RAJYA SABHA
Seventy nine villages of Chattisgarh have been electrified through solar energy.
These villages were identified by Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) as remote
villages and their proposals were received under the Remote Village Electrification
Programme of the Ministry of New And Renewable Energy. This have been approved
for financial support.
Proposals for installation of Wind Solar Hybrid Systems of 2.7 kW each in 139 tribal
hostels in Jaspur and Sarguja Districts were also sanctioned in the State during
2007-08.
This information was given in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha today
by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Vilas Muttemwar

COST OF 1 MW SOLAR POWER PLANT BETWEEN RS. 16 TO RS.20 CRORE
RAJYA SABHA
The estimated capital cost of setting up a Solar Power Plant is in the range of Rs.16
crore to Rs. 20 crore per MW. The cost of generation is around Rs.12 to Rs.15 per
unit, depending upon technology efficiency etc.
The Government is taken several steps in order to make solar energy systems more
cost effective. They include Research and Development, improve the efficiency and
performance of solar energy systems, incentives to manufacturers and others and
subsidy to encourage utilization of solar energy systems. This information was given
in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha today by the Minister of State for
New And Renewable Energy, Shri Vilas Muttemwar

GENERATION OF VARIOUS RENEWABLE ENERGY TOUCHES 11449 MW
RAJYA SABHA
A grid interactive power generation installed capacity of 11449 MW has been set up
in the country till and of last March. This is based on various renewable energy
sources. This comprises of 7939 MW wind power, 2062 MW small hydropower, 1446
MW bio power and 2 MW solar power. Besides this large number off
grid/decentralized renewable energy systems/devices are making a significant
contribution to conservation of conventional energy.
A capacity addition of 15000 MW from renewable energy sources has been proposed
during the 11th Plan period.
This information was given in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha today
by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Vilas Muttemwar

Friday, April 25, 2008

ENERGY FROM TIDAL WAVES
LOK SABHA
The Ministry is promoting a research, development and demonstration programme
for harnessing the tidal energy potential in the country for power generation. In
February, 2008, the Ministry sanctioned a demonstration project for setting up of a
3.75 MW capacity tidal power project at Durgaduani Creek in the Sunderbans area of
West Bengal to the West Bengal Renewable Energy Development Agency
(WBREDA) Kolkata. The total cost of the project is Rs. 48.00 crores. The Ministry
would provide 90% support for the project, while the State Government would meet
the balance 10%. The project would be completed within 33 months.
This information was given by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy,
Shri Vilas Muttemwar.in a written reply to a question by Shri Mahavir Bhagora in the
Lok Sabha today.

RS 41 CRORE SPENT ON RESEARCH ON ALTERNATIVE FUEL DURING
LAST THREE YEARS
LOK SABHA
Research and Development on alternate fuels including different aspects of
production, conversion and utilization of bio-fuels is being carried out in a number of
research institutions and universities. Apart from the Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy, support is being provided by Ministry of Science & Technology, Ministry of
Agriculture and Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. An expenditure of about Rs.41
crore is reported to have been incurred during the last three years.
Under the Allocation of Business Rules, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
has been given the responsibility for preparing the National Policy on Bio-fuels and
setting up of a National Bio-fuel Development Board. The draft Policy, including a
proposal for setting up of the Board alongwith its draft terms of reference and
composition, has been submitted for necessary approvals.
The draft Policy aims at promoting the cultivation, production and use of biofuels to
partially replace petrol and diesel for transport, stationary and portable applications
with the objective of contributing to energy security, environmental protection and
mitigation of climate change.
This information was given by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy,
Shri Vilas Muttemwar.in a written reply to a question by S/shri C.K.Chandrappan
Kinjarapu Yerrannaidu, Thawarchand Gehlot, Hari Kewal Prasad, Tukaram
Ganpatrao Renge Patil, Harisinh Chavda,Dr.Dhirendra Agarwal, Pannian Ravindran,
Mohan Singh, Prabhunath Singh and Dr.S. Satyanarayan Jatiya.in the Lok Sabha
today .
IREP IN A&N ISLANDS
LOK SABHA
The Integrated Rural Energy Programme (IREP) has given desired results in the
Union Territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The IREP was implemented in
Andaman & Nicobar Islands through the Electricity Department, Andaman & Nicobar
Administration. Under the programme, energy surveys of different
Islands/Blocks/areas were conducted to assess the energy requirements of rural
households for cooking, lighting and heating purposes. Seminars, awareness camps
& training programmes were also organised in the rural areas.
So far, 182 biogas plants, 40,333 improved chulhas, 7,252 solar lanterns, 69 solar
home systems, 25 solar street lights and 2,870 improved kerosene stoves have been
installed / distributed in these islands under the various renewable energy
programmes.
The Ministry has discontinued IREP from the 11th Plan i.e. 1st April, 2007 onwards,
as the programme has already demonstrated its objectives.
This information was given by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy,
Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question by Shri Manoranjan Bhakta in
the Lok Sabha today.

SOLAR ENERGY GENERATION
LOK SABHA
During the Tenth Five Year Plan period, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
had sanctioned projects for installation of 1500 kWp capacity of grid connected solar
photovoltaic power plants in the country and projects for a total capacity of 900 kWp
have been installed.
The Ministry has fixed a target of 50 MW for setting up grid connected solar power
plants during the Eleventh Five Year Plan. In order to achieve this, a new
demonstration programme to support MW size grid connected solar power plants has
been announced. Under this programme the Ministry will provide generation based
incentive up to Rs. 12 per kWh for the power actually fed to the grid from a solar
photovoltaic power plant and up to Rs. 10 per kWh from a solar thermal power plant,
taking into account the tariff given by the state utility, for a maximum period of ten
years. The solar power projects are to be set up on build, own and operate basis.
Preference will be given to projects in the States, where the concerned State
Electricity Regulatory Commissions have announced tariff for solar power.
The details of the funds released to various State agencies for implementation of grid
connected solar power projects during the 10th Five Year Plan are given in the
Annexure. During 2008-09, an amount of Rs.123.25 crores has been allocated for
various activities relating to promotion and popularization of solar energy in the
country, including an amount of Rs. 19.75 crores for setting up grid connected MW
size solar power plants.
This information was given by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy,
Shri Vilas Muttemwar.in a written reply to a question by S/Shri Rayapati Sambasiva
Rao, Jasubhai Dhanabhai Barad and Santosh Gangwar in the Lok Sabha today

Monday, April 28, 2008

CULTIVATION OF BIOFUELS IN ORISSA
RAJYA SABHA
Orissa Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA) have take several
initiatives for cultivation of biofuels in the State. Jatropha and Pomgambia will be
grown in the KBK and other districts of the state. They include enumeration of Oil
Seed Bearing trees in all KBK districts to assess the available potential, plantation of
saplings in certain districts and other promotional and awareness raising activities
including organizing workshops, demonstration of bio diesel production units etc.
The State Government has announced policy guidelines for this in August 2007.
Funds are available from the State plans as well as Government of India.
This information was given by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy,
Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question by Shri B.J. Panda in the Rajya
Sabha today .

CAPACITY ADDITION OF 30,000 MW FROM WIND BY 2032
RAJYA SABHA
Integrated Energy Policy has projected capacity addition of 30,000 MW from wind by
the year 2032. This would be a major part of realizable potential and road map to
achieve the wind power potential of the country. The Government put efforts to
promote setting up of commercial wind power projects through private sector
investments with number of incentives. Besides, wind power is being given
preferential tariff in potential states. The Center for Wind Energy technology, Chennai
also identifies new wind power potential areas through wind resource assessment
studies.
Upward revision of the potential of wind energy would depend upon identification of
new wind power potential areas.
This information was given by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy,
Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question by Shri C. Ramachandraiah in
the Rajya Sabha today

DEVELOPMENT OF SOLAR ENERGY IN DELHI
RAJYA SABHA
The Government of NCT in Delhi has made the use of solar water heaters mandatory
for certain categories of buildings, apart from certain incentives to the users. The
Government has been promoting the use of solar water heaters and energy
conservation devices to overcome power shortages and for Demand Side
Management.
They also announced a rebate of Rs.6000 per system to households for installation
of solar water heaters. In addition the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is
providing interest subsidy on a upfront basis so that loans at an effective rate of 2%
are available to the domestic users from various banks and financial institutions.
This information was given by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy,
Shri Vilas Muttemwar. in a written reply to a question by Ms. Mabel Rebello in the
Rajya Sabha today.

14000 MW TARGET FROM GRID INTERACTIVE RENEWABLE DURING 11TH PLAN
WIND ENERGY POTENTIAL IN UTTARAKHAND
Rajya Sabha
A target of 14000 MW from Grid Interactive Renewable power has been planned for 11th
Five Year Plan period in the country. Out of this, 10,500 MW will be generated from wind.
No wind power projects has been set up in the State of Uttaranchal so far. Wind resource
assessment carried out at 11 locations in the State indicates and exploitable wind power
potential of only 2 MW at Bachelikhal in the district of Tehri Garhwal.
This information was given by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, Shri
Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question by Shri Harish Rawat in the Rajya Sabha
today.

EQUIPMENTS ON ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES
RAJYA SABHA
Several renewable energy based systems/ devices such as, solar water heating
systems, solar cookers, solar photovoltaic lighting systems, biogas plants, pumping
systems, biomass gasifiers, water pumping wind mills, micro-hydel units, etc. have
been developed and are being promoted under different schemes / progammes of
the Ministry.
Most of the above mentioned gadgets are made by private sector and are available
commercially from the manufacturers and distributors through their dealers network.
Some of these gadgets are also being marketed through Akshay Urja Shops in
different States/ UTs and also by respective State Nodal Agencies for renewable
energy. Soft loans @ 7.5% interest rate for the establishment of these shops and
recurring grant and performance based incentive during first two years of their
operation are being provided.
The Government is already providing capital subsidy ranging from about 10 to 90% of
benchmark cost of certain systems / devices depending on the region and user
category to make the same affordable. This apart, a scheme for providing soft loans
at interest rates of 2-5% to different categories of users of solar water heating
systems is also operational through various banks and financial institutions. Further,
to increase the outreach of these devices, it is envisaged to expand the network of
Akshay Urja Shops in various parts of the country during the 11th Plan period.
This information was given by the Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy,
Shri Vilas Muttemwar in a written reply to a question by Smt. Viplove Thankur in the
Rajya Sabha today .

HARNESSING SOLAR ENERGY
RAJYA SABHA
Solar Energy can be harnessed through two routes namely solar photovoltaic for
direct conversion to electricity and solar thermal for heating/cooling and power
generation respectively. India is working on development and deployment of both
routes. The production of solar energy devices/systems and their utilization is
regularly increasing. As per some of the international reports India is ranked fourth in
the production and installation of solar water heating systems, after China, Germany
and Turkey. In the area of solar cell production, India is ranked eighth after Japan,
Germany, China, USA, Taiwan, Philippines and Spain.
The details of amount allocated and spent and the achievements made in the
development of this sector during the last three years are given in Annexure.
The Ministry has taken several steps to increase the utilization of solar energy in the
country, which include (i) taking up expanded programmes to encourage utilization of
solar energy systems through subsidy or soft loans, (ii) incentive to manufacturers,
commercial users and power project developers, (iv) research and development to
reduce the cost, improve the efficiency and performance of solar energy systems, (v)
support to Akshaya Urja shops to provide additional channels for sale and after-sales
servicing of solar energy systems, and (vi) create awareness through print and
electronic media about the solar energy systems and their benefits.

Monday, May 12, 2008

Solar Energy Centre – an attractive option to supplement the energy supply
BACKGROUNDER
The Solar Energy Centre is a technical focal point of the Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy for the development and promotion of solar energy technologies. On this
81hectare campus, buildings have been constructed on solar passive techniques to
achieve energy efficiency and environmentally friendliness. It also has been incorporated
more solar essential points which provides energy efficiency. It maximizes solar radiation
during winter and avoids during summer. With abundance sunshine this becomes an
ideal location for experiments with the energy from the sun.
The SEC serves as an effective interface between the Government and the institutions,
industry and user organizations for development, promotion and widespread utilization of
solar energy in the country and the main function of the center are research and
development – cooperation with institutions and industries; testing in standardisation -
national test facility and coordination with regional test centers (RTCs) and standards
organizations; technology demonstration and assessment – evaluation of technical,
environmental and economic performance ; human resources development – training and
visitors programme, dissemination and diffusion of solar energy technologies; advisory
and consultancy services and international cooperation. Thus the products developed by
organizations are brought here for testing and standardization, the centre evaluates them
and suggests ways for modifying them towards betterment, as a result of which, more
reliable and efficient products come out.
The solar thermal test facility is equipped for testing of solar thermal collectors, domestic
solar water heating systems and solar cookers, both box type and concentrating type.
The center works closely with the Bureau of Indian Standard, which brought out Indian
standards on solar flat-plate collectors at par with the International Standards.
The solar photo-voltaic facility at SEC is like one of the four other such centers in the
world. They are ISPRA, Milan, Italy, TUV, Germany, Arizona University USA and Kyoto.
The demand of solar cells which are called solar wafers and modules or solar panels is
very high in the country. We import about 30 per cent solar cells. Telecom Ministry,
Defence, Railways and ONGC are permanent users of this system. Referring to
revolution in home light systems, Dr. Bandopadhyay said that LED, i.e. Light Emitting
Diodes have been developed. Incandescent lights have been replaced by fluorescent
lights. Recently, CFL bulbs with little modification in fluorescent system came in the
market but this also does not have efficacy. So far LED was used in electronic
equipments as indicators but with innovation of white LED, we will have LED light
systems in the near future. They have longest life and they can work in hard
environments. Fluorescent lights do not works in cold regions like Leh Ladakh and in vary
hot regions like Rajasthan.
With the initiation of the Ministry there are 5,60,000 solar lanterns, 3,42,000 home lighting
systems, 54,700 solar street lights and almost 7000 water pumping systems in the
country.
The Center is also working towards bio-fuels and 26,000 Jatropha saplings from three
different agro-climatic zones have been planted in 26-acre land. Experiments are being
done for improving the productivity of Jatropha plant seeds, mastering the extraction and
esterification technology and finding remunerative bi- products, which is a challenge for
life science scientists. Efforts are on to evolve a drought resistant Jatropha seed which
will provide minimum 3 kgs of seed per plant annually commencing from third year of
plantation and minimum 40% oil content

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Advanced photovoltaic system at SEC
BACKGROUNDER
Solar Energy Centre (SEC) has developed facilities for research, development and
evaluation of solar thermal and solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies. PV modules
generate electricity as long as the sun shines. It is, however, necessary to qualify
these modules for their performance and life before their large scale deployment.
Sun Simulator
The existing sun simulator at the Centre is capable of testing the performance of PV
modules of dimensions upto 150 cm X 70 cm. The environmental conditioning tests
of these PV modules of capacity upto 75W are carried out through different
environmental chambers that simulate various temperature, humidity and radiation
conditions. These modules of 75W or less capacity are being deployed in large scale
in the country for lighting communication, pumping and also power generation. In
India there are large number of manufacturers of PV modules and systems and many
of these modules are currently been exported to meet the ever increasing demand in
many parts of the world.
For large capacity applications like MW size PV power plants now the size and
capacity of commercially available photovoltaic modules have been increasing mainly
to reduce the overall cost. With the large area sun simulator. it would be possible to
evaluate the performance of PV modules of size 200cm X 200cm, the capacity of
which can be around 600 W. Initiatives have already been taken by SEC to design
and procure environmental chambers to accommodate such large area modules for
their qualification testing. It is expected that the complete test facility for large area
modules will be in place within a year so that performance and qualification testing of
large area PV modules can be undertaken at SEC as per international standards.
International Accreditation
The center is also in the process of obtaining international accreditation of the test
facility. This facility would help PV module manufacturers of the country to test their
product in India and find a market in other countries of the world. SEC has also taken
up an initiative in collaboration with Central Electronic Ltd. , Indian Association for
Cultivation of Science (IACS) and National Physical Laboratory (NPL) for
development of secondary reference solar cells and modules in the country. These
initiatives will facilitate PV industries in the country to be more confident and
competitive international.
The other system inaugurated by the Minister is a photovoltaic concentrator module
test bed. This facility is unique of its kind in India and uses the latest high efficiency
multi junction concentrator solar cells technology modules. The concentrator modules
along with a high precession tracker system have been provided by MBPV and the
balance of system (BoS) components of the test bed, the inverter, the battery bank,
necessary loads and the Data Acquisition System for performance monitoring have
been conceptualized and organized by SEC.
The major components of the concentrator system are six numbers of concentrator photovoltaic
modules, each containing 16 high efficiency multi-junction GaAs solar cells. The cells and the
concentrator unit are fabricated by M/s SolFocus, USA and M/s MBPV respectively as a part of
their joint venture project. These cells operate at 500 suns concentration and each concentrator
module generates about 205W under standard concentrator conditions (ASTM WK 6450). There
are 6 such modules generating a total power of 1.2 kW. The module efficiency is 17%. The
unique design of the concentrator uses three optical elements, and offers a wide insolation
acceptance angle ±1 º.
The BoS consists of high performance solar charge controller to charge a battery bank of 24
Volts, 500 Ah, connected to a high efficiency SMD (Solar-Mains-Diesel) hybrid inverter of 2 kVA.
The loads include the lights, fans, control PC, and a 300W flood lamp. For monitoring the
performance of the system, SEC has established a DS-10 Data Acquisition System (DAS) based
on CSI 21-X Data Logger. The sensors for monitoring the current, voltage, sun radiation,
temperature, wind speed direction, and meters for recording the total AC energy supplied by the
system. The DAS is programmed to monitor the performance data very precisely every 10 sec
and average over 10minutes. Initial observations indicates that the 1.2 kWp concentrator systems
could generate more than 4.5 kWh of D.C. energy in a normal sunny day

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Two Advanced Photovoltaic System at sec inaugurated
Shri Vilas Muttemwer, Minister of State for the Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy has said that Solar Energy Centre is now well equipped to meet the emerging
requirement of industry as per international standards. Inaugurating two Advanced
Solar Photovoltaic facilities at Solar Energy Centre (SEC) at Gwalpahari, Haryana,
Shri Muttemwar said that a great milestone has been achieved by SEC through
updating itself to the international standards. These Facilities include a large area
Sun Simulator and a Photovoltaic Concentrator Module Test Bed. He said that the
Government would help SEC in getting accreditation from International Electro
Technical Commission on quality assurance in the field of Solar Photovoltaic. Shri
Muttemwar expressed the hope that with the help of dedicated and enthusiastic
manpower at SEC the international accreditation would be available shortly.
The Minister said there is a boom in PV industry all over the world and has also been
gearing up to meet the challenge of large-scale demand of solar cells. Referring to
recent announcement of policy for grid connected power production from both solar
photovoltaic and solar thermal route Shri Muttemwar said that the Government would
provide generation based incentives upto Rs. 12 kw per hour for getting connected
SEC power plant and Rs.10 kw per hour for solar thermal power plant.
The large area sun simulator will make possible to evaluate the performance of PV
modules of size 200cm X 200cm, the capacity of which can be around 600 W.
Initiatives have already been taken by SEC to design and procure environmental
chambers to accommodate such large area modules for their qualification testing. It
is expected that the complete test facility for large area modules will be in place
within a year so that performance and qualification testing of large area PV modules
can be undertaken at SEC as per international standards. The center is also in the
process of obtaining international accreditation of the test facility. This facility would
help PV module manufacturers of the country to test their product in India and find a
market in other countries of the world.
The other system inaugurated by the Minister is a Photovoltaic Concentrator Module
Test Bed. This facility is unique of its kind in India and uses the latest high efficiency
multi junction concentrator solar cells technology modules. The concentrator modules
require less area of solar cells and therefore use less amount of expensive
semiconductor material. These are essentially the third generation PV technology
that promises high efficiency low cost systems with economically competitive cost of
electricity generation.
Earlier in his welcome address Dr. B. Bandyopadhyay, Head of Solar Energy Centre
and Adviser in the Ministry gave details about the Solar Energy Centre

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

MOU for Deployment of Renewable Energy Systems and Devices at
Damodar Valley Corporation
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Will Provide Technical Assistance
A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy and Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC ), Kolkata in presence of
Secretar, Power today. The objective of this MoU is to deploy Renewable Energy
Systems and Devices at the premises, power plants and various establishments of
DVC with a view to conserve fossil and other fuels and augment energy generation
through environment friendly and sustainable renewable energy sources. This will
help in bringing down CO2 emissions.
Ministry of New and Renewable energy will provide necessary technical assistance,
examine the possibility of retro-fitting solar thermal systems in their power plants and
feasibility of installation of suitable solar concentrating system. Simultaneously, the
possibility of Indo-Australian collaboration under Asia Passific Project 6 will be
explored for installation of a Compact Linear Fresnel Reflector (CLFR) system ,a
prototype of which has been installed at a power station in Australia.
DVC will examine the possibility of installation of various renewable energy devices
and systems at their premises, power plants and establishments. This include water
heating systems, cookers, drying and heating systems, home lightings, generators,
street lights, traffic lights, blinkers, road studs based on solar energy, energy efficient
solar buildings, bio-mass gasification ,cogeneration, projects on methane utilization
,micro and mini hydel system etc.
DVC will meet the expenditure on installation of these devices, power plants and
other establishments. The ministry of New and Renewable Energy will provide
financial support as per the provision of its on going schemes on renewable energy.
The MoU will be valid for five years from today.

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Light Emitting Diodes’ Applications
FACTSHEET
Light emitting diodes (LED) has number of applications. They include devices, medical
appliances, indicators and signs, emergency vehicles, flash lights etc.
Devices, medical applications, clothing, toys
• Remote controls, such as for TVs and VCRs, often use infrared LEDs.
• Glowlights, as a more expensive but longer lasting and reusable alternative to Glowsticks.
• Movement sensors, for example in optical computer mice
• The Nintendo Wii's sensor bar uses infrared LEDs.
In optical fiber and Free Space Optics communications.
Toys and recreational sporting goods, such as the Flashlight
Lumalive, a photonic textile
In pulse oximeters for measuring oxygen saturation
LED phototherapy for acne using blue or red LEDs has been proven to significantly reduce acne
over a three-month period.
Some flatbed scanners use an array of red, green, and blue LEDs rather than the typical coldcathode
fluorescent lamp as the light source. Having independent control of three illuminated
colors allows the scanner to calibrate itself for more accurate color balance, and there is no need
for warm-up.
Computers, for hard drive activity and power on. Some custom computers feature LED accent
lighting to draw attention to a given component. Many computer manufacturers use LEDs to tell
the user its current state. One example would be the Mac, which tells its user when it is asleep by
fading the LED activity lights in and out, in and out.
Sterilization of water and other substances using UV light.
Lighting
Grow lights composed of LEDs are more efficient, both because LEDs produce more lumens per
watt than other alternatives, and also because they can be tuned to the specific wavelengths
plants can make the most use of
Light bulbs, Lanterns, Streetlights, Large scale video displays, Architectural lighting
Light source for machine vision systems, requiring bright, focused, homogeneous and possibly
strobed illumination.
Motorcycle and Bicycle lights Emergency vehicle lighting, Flashlights, including some
mechanically powered models.
Backlighting for LCD televisions and displays. The availability of LEDs in specific colors (RGB)
enables a full-spectrum light source which expands the color gamut by as much as 45%.
Stage lights using banks of LED's as replacement for incandescent bulbs. LED's produce less
heat so LED stage lighting is cheaper to operate and reduces the risk of fire considerably.
LED-based Christmas lights have been available since 2002, but are only now beginning to gain
in popularity and acceptance due to their higher initial purchase cost when compared to similar
incandescent-based Christmas lights. For example, as of 2006, a set of 50 incandescent lights
might cost US$2, while a similar set of 50 LED lights might cost US$10. The purchase cost can
be even higher for single-color sets of LED lights with rare or recently-introduced colors, such as
purple, pink or white. Regardless of the higher initial purchase price, the total cost of ownership
for LED Christmas lights would eventually be lower than the TCO for similar incandescent
Christmas lightssince the LED requires much less power to output the same amount of light as a
similar incandescent bulb. More to the point, LEDs have practically unlimited life and are hardwired
rather than using unreliable sockets as do replaceable bulbs. So a set of LED lights can be
expected to outlive many incandescent sets, and without any maintenance.
Indicators and signs
Status indicators on a variety of equipment are used which include traffic lights and signals, Exit
signs, Railroad crossing signals, Continuity indicators and Elevator push-button Lighting.
Thin, lightweight message displays at airports and railway stations, and as destination displays
for trains, buses, trams, and ferries.
Red or yellow LEDs are used in indicator and alphanumeric displays in environments where night
vision must be retained: aircraft cockpits, submarine and ship bridges, astronomy observatories,
and in the field, e.g. night time animal watching and military field use.
Red, yellow, green, and blue LEDs can be used for model railroading applications
In dot matrix arrangements for displaying messages.
Because of their long life and fast switching times, LEDs have been used for automotive highmounted
brake lights and truck and bus brake lights and turn signals for some time, but many
high-end vehicles are now starting to use LEDs for their entire rear light clusters. Besides the gain
in reliability, this has styling advantages because LEDs are capable of forming much thinner lights
than incandescent lamps with parabolic reflectors. The significant improvement in the time taken
to light up (perhaps 0.5s faster than an incandescent bulb) improves safety by giving drivers more
time to react. It has been reported that at normal highway speeds this equals one car length
increased reaction time for the car behind. White LED headlamps are beginning to make an
appearance.
As a medium quality voltage reference in electronic circuits. The forward voltage drop (e.g., about
1.7 V for a normal red LED) can be used instead of a Zener Diode low-voltage regulators.
Although LED forward voltage is much more current-dependent than a good Zener, Zener diodes
are not available below voltages of about 3 V.

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Is use of LEDs within our reach?
LEDs are currently more expensive, price per lumen, on an initial capital cost basis,
than more conventional lighting technologies. The additional expense partially stems
from the relatively low lumen output and the drive circuitry and power supplies
needed. However, when considering the total cost of ownership (including energy
and maintenance costs), LEDs far surpass incandescent or halogen sources and
begin to threaten compact fluorescent lamps. In December 2007, scientists at
Glasgow University claimed to have found a way to make Light Emitting Diodes
brighter and use less power than energy efficient light bulbs currently on the market
by imprinting holes into billions of LEDs in a new and cost effective method using a
process known as Nan imprint lithography.
LED performance largely depends on the ambient temperature of the operating
environment. Over-driving the LED in high ambient temperatures may result in
overheating of the LED package, eventually leading to device failure. Adequate heatsinking
is required to maintain long life. This is especially important when considering
automotive, medical, and military applications where the device must operate over a
large range of temperatures, and is required to have a low failure rate.
LEDs must be supplied with the correct current. This can involve series resistors or
current-regulated power supplies.
The spectrum of some white LEDs differs significantly from a black body radiator,
such as the sun or an incandescent light. The spike at 460 nm and dip at 500 nm can
cause the color of objects to be perceived differently under LED illumination than
sunlight or incandescent sources, due to metamerism. Color rendering properties of
common fluorescent lamps are often inferior to what is now available in state-of-art
white LEDs.
LEDs do not approximate a “point source” of light, so cannot be used in applications
needing a highly collimated beam. LEDs are not capable of providing divergence
below a few degrees. This is contrasted with commercial ruby lasers with
divergences of 0.2 degrees or less. This can be corrected by using lenses and other
optical devices.
There is increasing concern that blue LEDs and white LEDs are now capable of
exceeding safe limits of the so-called blue-light hazard as defined in eye safety
specifications such as ANSI/IESNA RP-27.1-05: Recommended Practice for Photo
biological Safety for Lamp and Lamp Systems.

Monday, June 16, 2008

Advantages of using LEDs
Light Emitting Diodes(LEDs) can emit light of an intended color without the use of
color filters that traditional lighting methods require. This lighting system of future is
more efficient and can lower initial costs.The solid package of the LED can be
designed to focus its light. Incandescent and fluorescent sources often require an
external reflector to collect light and direct it in a usable manner.There are many
advantages of using LEDs besides saving electricity to a great extent.
When used in applications where dimming is required, LEDs do not change their
color tint as the current passing through them is lowered, unlike incandescent lamps,
which turn yellow.
LEDs are ideal for use in applications that are subject to frequent on-off cycling,
unlike fluorescent lamps that burn out more quickly when cycled frequently, or HID
lamps that require a long time before restarting.
LEDs, being solid state components, are difficult to damage with external shock.
Fluorescent and incandescent bulbs are easily broken if dropped on the ground.
LEDs can have a relatively long useful life. One report estimates 35,000 to 50,000
hours of useful life, though time to complete failure may be longer.[25] Fluorescent
tubes typically are rated at about 30,000 hours, and incandescent light bulbs at
1,000–2,000 hours.
LEDs mostly fail by dimming over time, rather than the abrupt burn-out of
incandescent bulbs.
LEDs light up very quickly. A typical red indicator LED will achieve full brightness in
microseconds; Philips Lumileds technical datasheet DS23 for the Luxeon Star states
“less than 100ns.” LEDs used in communications devices can have even faster
response times.
LEDs can be very small and are easily populated onto printed circuit boards.
LEDs do not contain mercury, unlike compact fluorescent lamps

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

“Need for rigorous marketing of battery-operated vehicles”
‘V.Subramanian’
While the prices of crude oil has crossed US$ 140 per barrel and vehicle population
has also been increasing, the country is facing serious impact on its economy and
inflation in prices of various commodities. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
through its research & development and demonstration programmes has made
successful efforts for using biofuels in automobiles and stationary engines and
development and production of battery-operated vehicles during past 20 years or so.
Several battery-operated models of two-wheelers, three-wheelers and four-wheelers
are manufactured by a number of industries. However the numbers of such vehicles
are quite small in comparison to conventional fuel vehicles.
With a view to work out a conducive policy for large use of battery-operated vehicles
in the country, Shri V. Subramanian, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy, took a meeting with the major battery-operated vehicle manufacturers on
17th June, 2008 in the Ministry. The leading battery-operated vehicle manufacturers,
namely, M/s Mahendra & Mahendra, M/s Bajaj Auto Limited, M/s Honda Motors, M/s
Reva Electrics, M/s Electrothurps, M/s Eco Vehicles, M/s Yo-Bikes, M/s E-Bikes etc.
participated in the meeting. Representatives from Society for Indian Automobile
Manufacturers (SIAM) and M/s Tata Motors also attended the meeting. Shri
Subramanian stressed the need of rigorous marketing and opening of dealers
network in major cities for battery-operated vehicles by the manufacturers. Shri
J.K.Dadoo, Secretary, Department of Environment, Delhi Government mentioned the
recent step of Delhi Government for supporting 30% of battery-operated vehicles
costs and procedures for availing the incentives. During the discussion, it was felt
that while the running cost of battery-operated vehicles is cheaper than the
petrol/diesel run vehicles, the replacement of batteries of battery-operated vehicles is
quite costly. The aspects of leasing of batteries and central charging facility of
batteries of battery-operated vehicles were also considered as a step-forward for
promotion of battery-operated vehicles. Battery-operated vehicles manufacturers
have assured all efforts by them for expanding their marketing network and creating
awareness about these vehicles.

Rigorous marketing, of battery-operated vehicles soon
SUBSIDY TO NETWORK OF CHARGING STATIONS
A rigorous marketing for battery-operated vehicles will be developed in the country
soon. Addressing a meeting with the major battery-operated vehicle manufacturers
yesterday, Shri V. Subramanian, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy,
further stressed the need of rigorous marketing and opening of dealers network and
charging stations for leasing batteries in major cities for battery-operated vehicles by
the manufacturers. Shri Subramanian said while the prices of crude oil has crossed
US$ 140 per barrel and vehicle population has also been increasing, the country is
facing serious impact on its economy and inflation in prices of various commodities.
At this moment, with a view to work out a conducive policy for large use of batteryoperated
vehicles in the country, the existing scheme will be changed to
accommodate two-wheelers also in its purview, secretary added. At present only
three and four-wheelers of institutions are eligible for this scheme. Besides this, the
ministry will give subsidy to a large network of charging stations established by the
companies, Shri Subramanian informed.
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy through its research & development and
demonstration programmes has made successful efforts for using bio-fuels in
automobiles and stationary engines and development and production of batteryoperated
vehicles during past 20 years. Several battery-operated models of twowheelers,
three-wheelers and four-wheelers are manufactured by a number of
industries. However the numbers of such vehicles are quite small in comparison to
conventional fuel vehicles.
During the discussion, it was felt that while the running cost of battery-operated
vehicles is cheaper than the petrol/diesel run vehicles, the replacement of batteries of
battery-operated vehicles is quite costly. The aspects of leasing of batteries and
central charging facility of batteries of battery-operated vehicles were also considered
as a step-forward for promotion of battery-operated vehicles. Battery-operated
vehicles manufacturers have assured all efforts by them for expanding their
marketing network and creating awareness about these vehicles. The Delhi state has
already announced supporting 30% of battery-operated vehicles costs and
procedures for availing the incentives. Shri J.K.Dadoo, Secretary, Department of
Environment, Delhi Government informed during this meeting.
The leading battery-operated vehicle manufacturers, namely, M/s Mahendra &
Mahendra, M/s Bajaj Auto Limited, M/s Honda Motors, M/s Reva Electrics, M/s
Electrothurps, M/s Eco Vehicles, M/s Yo-Bikes, M/s E-Bikes etc. participated in the
meeting. Representatives from Society for Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM)
and M/s Tata Motors also attended the meeting

Non conventional resources of energy-pressreleases

Monday, July 13, 2009

press releases of mnes

Sunday, July 12, 2009

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