MUMBAI: “Maharashtra will generate 17,385 MW from solar projects in the next five years at much cheaper rates, benefiting industries and agriculture in the state,” said state energy minister Dr Nitin Raut while addressing a video conference on Friday.
Raut was addressing a video conference on renewable energy sector “Renew India 2020 Decarburizing Industrial Growth- the renewable way” organized by the Confederation of Indian Industries.
Raut said that recently, the Maha Vikas Aghadi government had launched a new Renewable Energy Policy(REP), which would attract investment of Rs 75,000 crore in the power sector and other affiliated industries. "Solar power would be the cheapest power compared to thermal power. Hence, the dream of providing cheap power to industries and day time power to agriculture will soon become a reality," he said.
As per the estimates, Maharashtra has a capacity to produce 25,000 MW from solar projects, but the energy department has framed the REP to produce 17,385 MW in the next five years, he added.
Raut said that the new REP had opened opportunities for industries and investors in this sector. "Those interested to invest in this sector will get single window clearance. The project would get all kinds of assistance from a dedicated liaisoning officer for big solar projects and a coordination committee will conduct a monthly review of the progress for the projects above 25 MW," he said.
Raut further informed that grid connectivity will be a right of the producers and will be allowed open access for ten years. He said that the new REP aimed at providing day time power to agriculture pumps and 5 lakh solar agriculture pumps would be installed in the state in the next five years. About 10,000 households in remote areas would be given solar power.
