Telangana's state cabinet has approved a comprehensive green and renewable energy policy aimed at attracting Rs 1.98 trillion in investments and generating 114,000 jobs over the next decade. The policy targets the addition of 20,000 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030. Key incentives include stamp duty reimbursement for land acquired for green energy projects, an eight-year electricity duty exemption for MSMEs using solar and wind energy, and streamlined approvals via the TS-iPASS system. No-objection certificates (NOCs) from the Pollution Control Board will no longer be required, and water charges for solar projects will be reimbursed. The policy promotes rooftop solar installations in government schools, Indiramma houses, public buildings, and village panchayats. Land for renewable energy projects will be classified as non-agricultural, eliminating land-use change permissions. Both government and private land will be available for projects, with government parcels offered for lease at minimal costs. Additionally, the government will refund its GST share on capital investments. Women’s self-help groups will be encouraged to establish solar plants with capacities between 500 kW and 2 MW, with Discoms committing to purchase the electricity generated. Floating solar projects on reservoirs will be developed through competitive bidding, with specific reservoirs allocated to central and state agencies. To foster innovation, the government plans to establish a renewable energy incubation centre under the guidance of Transco or Discom. The policy also supports the development of solar, wind, hybrid, and green hydrogen projects, alongside pumped storage facilities. The policy introduces open access for green energy, enabling industries and companies to purchase electricity directly from producers instead of relying solely on government-owned Discoms. With Telangana's electricity demand expected to double from 15,623 MW in 2024-25 to 31,809 MW by 2034-35, the new policy positions the state as a leader in renewable energy development and sustainable growth. (ET)