In Assam, OTPC and APDCL will develop a battery energy storage system

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed by ONGC Tripura Power Company Limited (OTPC) and Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) for the development of a phased battery energy storage system (BESS) project in Assam with a capacity of up to 250 MW/500 MWh. A statement from OTPC stated that the project would be developed by incorporating a joint venture company. OTPC is a joint venture between the Tripura government, India Infrastructure Fund-II, ONGC, and GAIL.

The project will be developed with funds totaling 2,000 crore. According to Sanil C. Namboodiripad, OTPC's Managing Director, “OTPC is eager to partner with Assam in its transition to a decarbonised energy mix and has been a dependable energy supplier for the state since 2014. The energy storage project will bring in multiple avenues of employment, boost to local businesses, improved utilisation of green energy, carbon emission reduction, and overall socio-economic development in Assam."

Additionally, he stated that the project will assist the state in enhancing grid reliability, integrating renewable energy generation with the electricity grid, and improving power availability during peak load hours. Assam's minister of power, Nandita Gorlosa, said at the event that the development would help the state become a leader in the transition to green energy. Rakesh Kumar, MD, APDCL, stated that the battery energy storage project is essential for the successful integration of upcoming solar power projects because the state is implementing significant solar energy capacity.

The 726 MW gas-based combined cycle power plant that OTPC owns and operates supplies 25% of the energy requirements of all seven north eastern states. According to the company's statement, OTPC plans to play a crucial role in India's clean energy transition by establishing energy storage systems across the country in order to better integrate green energy with the country's existing electric power system.

The centre has established ambitious transition objectives at the same time as the focus on battery energy storage systems. By 2030, India hopes to have 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity and zero net carbon emissions by 2070. Battery storage systems would be essential for storing power during times of peak demand and maintaining grid stability as renewable energy expands. Energy storage systems are being improved in a number of other states as well.