Increasing concerns over climate change and energy have propelled the topics of energy and the environment to the forefront of the global agenda. In the early 21st century, we find ourselves at an important crossroads, grappling with daunting questions that will determine the future of the entire globe. There is a constant need to increase the economic growth that has pulled millions out of poverty, and at the same time develop and implement clean and affordable technologies that will not damage the environment. With a view to share ideas in the renewable energy sector, an interactive meeting had been organized by the Energy Committee of Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) with Shri Sudhi Ranjan Mohanty, IAS, Principal Secretary, New & Renewable Energy Department, and Government of Madhya Pradesh (GoMP). Shri Kanubhai Patel, GCCI Hon. Secretary (Regional), Shri Jyotindrabhai Patel, GCCI Energy Committee Chairman, Shri Nayan Parikh, esteemed members of GCCI Energy Committee were present during the interaction.

Mr. Mohanty highlighted the ambitious plans of GoMP for renewable power capacity in the coming years to provide a framework for sustainable future. The plan envisages capacity augmentation of more than 2600MW by June 2014 through renewable sources. He unveiled the state’s solar, wind and biomass favorable power policies that have opened up various avenues for investment in the state. The generic benefits under these policies include no electricity cess & duty for 10 years, 2% wheeling charges, third party sale, 100 % banking, contract demand reduction permitted, stamp duty exemption (50%) on purchase of private land, no VAT, no water charges, entry tax exempted, no land related exemption, no local body approvals, no surprise inspection on project related issue, single window clearance, etc. Considering the fact that surplus land which is not cultivable, with average solar radiation of 5.2 to 6.2 kWh/ sq.m/ day is a pointer in huge solar potential to the state, GoMP has identified around 1,000 acres of land in Neemuch district of the state to set up India’s biggest solar power plant that is expected to generate about 130 MW of power. The wind power potential has been assessed to be around 2,931MW at 80m hub height and the gross potential of energy generation from agricultural waste has been projected at 1386MW in the state. Among the recent initiatives to promote renewable energy includes the solar park policy, policy for setting up wind power project in tribal areas, infrastructure up gradation, continuous policy updating and resource assessment, etc.

The meeting ended with a vote of thanks by Shri Jyotindrabhai Patel, Chairman, Energy Committee.