Maharashtra to generate 17,385 MW from solar projects in five years

Energy minister Nitin Raut told the media that Mumbai will now totally focus on renewable energies and should produce 17,385 MW from solar projects within five years. The ministry recently announced that there will be no further thermal generation units in Maharashtra. Raut said that Maharashtra is expected to have 25,000 MW of potential from solar projects, although the energy department has established the new Renewable Energy Policy (REP) to produce 17,385 MW over the next five years. The REP will also draw investment of Rs 75,000 in the energy sector and other relevant industries. Additionally, the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) has fixed a target for the state to meet 25% of its needs from renewable sources across the following five years. As a result, the government has chosen to solely promote renewable energy. Further, Raut said that solar power will be much cheaper than thermal power, which will benefit industry and agriculture across the state. 30% of the electricity is to be produced only by solar energy by 2030. The energy department said that the new REP intends to render agricultural pumps with electricity during the day at cheaper costs. A total of 5 lakh solar farm pumps will be introduced in the state across the following five years. Approximately 10,000 households in remote regions will receive solar energy. As per the sources, electricity needs are down 33% during the pandemic and several thermal units have been idle. There is currently an immense gap between supply and demand. Image SourceAlso read: Maharashtra discom opens tender for 500 MW wind-solar hybrid projects Also read: Maharashtra to spend Rs 25 bn on Mahavitaran power infra