Andhra Pradesh Accelerates Green Energy Push with 628 MW Projects

The Andhra Pradesh government has approved two major renewable energy projects with a combined capacity of 628 MW under the AP Integrated Clean Energy Policy, 2024. These include a 540 MW solar power project in Anantapur district and an 88 MW wind power project in Kurnool district.

Following detailed technical and financial evaluations by the New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh (NREDCAP), the projects were cleared for development. ReNew Vikram Shakti will implement the solar power initiative across six villages in the Gooty and Pamidi mandals of Anantapur. Meanwhile, JSW Neo Energy will develop the wind farm in Aspari, located in Kurnool district.

These initiatives aim to strengthen Andhra Pradesh's renewable energy infrastructure. The state government reserves the “right of first refusal” for up to 30% of the power generated, contingent on tariff approval by the State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC).

To facilitate development, project developers will be granted government or revenue land on a 30-year lease at Rs 31,000 per acre annually, with a 5% escalation every two years. Land conversion charges are waived, and the land will be designated as non-agricultural. Power evacuation will be overseen by APTRANSCO, though developers will be responsible for constructing the necessary infrastructure.

Projects must be commissioned within 24 months. Eligible developers may also benefit from Central financial assistance, without imposing any financial burden on the state. Coordination across multiple government departments will ensure efficient project execution.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.