Jakson Group arm Jakson Engineers is planning to invest about Rs 20 billion for expansion of its solar manufacturing business. The company plans to invest about Rs 20 billion to set up a 2,500 MW solar cell manufacturing facility, which is simultaneously expanding its existing solar module manufacturing facility to 2,000 MW. The first phase of the plant is set to be commissioned within the next 15 months while module plant expansion is expected to be completed within six months. Upon completion, the expansion plan is set to create 1,200 new jobs in the region. JEL aims to become a 5,000 MW integrated solar wafer, cell and module manufacturer.Contact: Jakson GroupWebsite: www.jakson.com THDC to harness 6,790 MW of pumped hydro power storage at Rs 336 bn investmentTHDC India said that it has signed a pact with the Maharashtra government for harnessing six pumped hydro power storage projects (PSPs) totalling 6,790 MW with an investment of over Rs 336 billion. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed with the Department of Water Resources, Government of Maharashtra, to harness pumped storage energy through six PSPs, totalling 6,790 MW capacity and involving a proposed investment of over Rs 336 billion. The six planned projects under this MoU are Malshej Ghat pumped storage project (700 MW), Aruna pumped storage project (1,950 MW), Kharari pumped storage project (1,250 MW), Humbarli Birmani pumped storage project (1,000 MW), Aruna Kolamb pumped storage project (1,200 MW) and Morawadi Majarewadi pumped storage project (690 MW). As part of the collaboration, the Maharashtra government will facilitate the process of water allocation necessary for projects. Contact: THDC IndiaWebsite: www.thdc.co.inRailways plans to go nuclear as part of its green driveIndian Railways is exploring the use of nuclear power through captive units as it seeks to increase reliance on non-fossil fuel sources and renewable ones. The Railways plans to become a net zero carbon emitter by 2030 and expects to need 30,000 MW of renewable capacity by 2029-30 to achieve this. Apart from nuclear, the Railways is in the process of commissioning solar power units and wind-based power plants. Hydel power would also be tapped. Discussions will be taken up with Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) shortly and for the use of renewables, the Railways is exploring partnerships with Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), NTPC and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), among others.Now, Bharat Small Reactors are being readied India’s 220 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) is being modified and converted to Bharat Small Reactors, preparatory to handing over to the private sector. In other words, Bharat Small Reactors are 220 MW PHWR with improvements. Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) is in the process of making drawings for this. The modification is minimal and change is incremental. The Department of Atomic Energy is ready to team (up) with the private sector and install them. NPCIL will design, install and operate these reactors for private companies that are looking for a captive power plant that can produce hydrogen for industrial use, or electricity.  Contact: Nuclear Power Corporation of IndiaTel: 022-22176000Email: contactus@npcil.co.inWebsite: www.npcil.nic.inServotech empowers consumers with subsidised solutionsServotech Power Systems., a leading manufacturer of solar solutions and EV chargers, has expanded its reach significantly by enrolling with 62 discoms across India under the Pradhan Mantri-Surya Ghar Mufti Bijli Yojana. This solidifies the company’s position in the renewable energy sector and also directly benefits consumers by enabling them to avail government subsidies when purchasing solar solutions from the company. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, aimed at solarising households and promoting green growth, has received tremendous traction, with over 12.8 million registrations and 1.4 million applications.  Contact: Servotech Power SystemsWebsite: www.servotech.in