With ambitious goals, pioneering policies, and substantial investments, India currently holds the rank of the fourth-largest nation globally in overall renewable energy capacity. In this phenomenal transformation, Gujarat is playing a crucial role in complementing India’s strides in the realm of renewable energy. Abhineet Kumar from Elets News Network, delves into Gujarat’s impressive journey, shedding light on significant accomplishments, future targets, and the contributions of various institutes and agencies in shaping the nation’s clean energy landscape.
India has demonstrated its capability to achieve the objectives before time when it comes to renewable energy resources. The country has achieved the target of 40% contributions from non-fossil fuels in the installed electricity capacity 9 years before the target date. It also achieved thetarget of 10% ethanol blending in petrol five months before the deadline and is striving to achieve 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025-26 instead of 2030. Additionally, India will install electric capacity worth 500 GW, from non-fossil sources by 2030, shared Hon’ble Prime Minister Modi during a post-budget webinar on ‘Green Growth’ in February last year.
Prime Minister Modi says India’s future development will be based on three pillars for green growth and energy transmission. Increasing the production of renewable energy; reducing the use of fossil fuel in the economy and finally, moving towards a “gas-based economy” in the country.
This approach undergirded the announcement of schemes such as ethanol blending, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM, a scheme for solarising agriculture), incentives for solar manufacturing, rooftop solar scheme, coal gasification, and battery storage in the Budgets of the past few years.
Since 2014-15, India has witnessed a phenomenal increase in renewable power generation, excluding large hydro projects. The generation capacity has surged nearly threefold, escalating from 61 billion units (BU) to an impressive 180 BU. This exponential growth is a testament to India’s commitment to reducing its reliance on traditional fossil fuels and embracing cleaner alternatives.
SOLAR POWER DOMINANCE
Solar power has emerged as a frontrunner in India’s renewable energy portfolio, experiencing unprecedented growth over the past few years. The installed solar capacity has skyrocketed from 2.6 gigawatts (GW) to a staggering 70.10 GW since 2014, marking an approximately 30- fold increase. This surge not only demonstrates the country’s dedication to harnessing solar potential but also positions India as a global leader in solar energy adoption.
The International Solar Alliance (ISA), an international intergovernmental organisation established through a treaty, seeks to raise over USD 1000 billion in investment by 2030 to facilitate extensive deployment of solar energy. Conceived on November 30, 2015, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of France Francois Hollande, the ISA’s goal is to amplify solar energy adoption, lower the costs associated with solar power generation by aggregating demand for solar finance, technologies, innovation, research and development, and capacity building.
Under the visionary concept of ‘One Sun One World One Grid’ (OSOWOG), as advocated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, the goal is to connect global solar resources. The premise behind OSOWOG is that ‘The Sun Never Sets,’ ensures a continuous presence of sunlight at various geographic locations worldwide. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is spearheading a comprehensive study to develop a long-term vision, implementation plan, roadmap, and institutional framework for OSOWOG.
The International Solar Alliance is actively involved as the implementing agency, and the study is being conducted by a consortium of consultants including Électricité de France (EDF), Application Européenne de Technologies et de Services (AETS), and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). The inception report was submitted previously, followed by the submission of the revised phase-1 report later on. The study is anticipated to be completed in the near future.
WIND ENERGY ADVANCEMENTS
In tandem with solar power, India has made significant strides in wind energy capacity. Since 2014, the wind energy capacity has doubled, reaching 42.6 GW. This growth showcases the nation’s multi-pronged approach to renewable energy, tapping into various sources to create a diversified and resilient energy landscape.
The country’s focus on sustainable energy sources has resulted in a substantial 71,814 million units of electricity being generated from wind energy during the fiscal year 2022-23.
The major wind energy producing States for the year 2022-23 were Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Telangana.
Gujarat Leading the Country in Renewable Energy
Gujarat, with its eyes set on the ambitious 2030 targets, stands out as a trailblazer in India’s pursuit of a sustainable future. This vibrant state has become a symbol of proactive commitment, playing a crucial role in bolstering the nation’s renewable energy capacity. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, Gujarat’s approach towards embracing wind and solar power serves as a blueprint for others to follow.
Hon’ble Prime Minister remarked that “Energy security and water security are vital in the 21st century” during the inauguration of Khavda Hybrid RE park in Kachchh, Gujarat, which is also set to be the largest RE park in the world. The vast project in western spread over 1,80,000 acres will contain solar panels, solar energy storage units, and windmills. The energy project in PM Modi’s home state will account for a large chunk of India’s ambitious target of generating 175 GW in renewable energy by 2022 and 450 GW by 2030.
One of Gujarat’s remarkable initiatives is the implementation of a Waste Land policy, which involves leasing vast expanses of land for the development of solar, wind, and hybrid energy parks dedicated to green hydrogen production. The state has given in-principle approval for utilising 1.99 lakh hectares of waste land, signalling a significant step towards harnessing renewable energy resources.
“Our Renewable Energy Policy will enable Gujarat to source 50% of its energy from renewable (RE) sources and will help achieve India’s ambitious target of reducing carbon emissions by 45% by 2030. Gujarat currently contributes 15% to India’s RE capacity and is one of the fastest growing renewable energyproducing regions.” emphasised Bhupendrabhai Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat.
“Gujarat is committed to contributing towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. Our mission is to make Gujarat a key contributor to India’s USD 5 Trillion economy plan. The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024, themed “Gateway to the Future” will play a pivotal role in achieving this vision. I am confident that the VGGS which is the first Summit in Amrit Kaal will be a golden opportunity for investors looking to engage with Gujarat for its immense growth potential”, said the hon’ble CM during a recent press interaction.
GPCL Transforming Gujarat’s Energy Landscape
Established with the objective of augmenting power generation in the state of Gujarat, Gujarat Power Corporation Limited (GPCL) has evolved into a dynamic player, contributing significantly to the nation’s power infrastructure. With a focus on sustainable energy solutions, GPCL engages in the development, operation, and maintenance of power projects, encompassing a diverse range of energy sources.
The corporation’s commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility underscores its pursuit of efficient and ecofriendly power generation. As a key contributor to India’s energy landscape, GPCL continues to drive advancements in the realm of power production and distribution.
Founded on June 28, 1990, under the Companies Act, 1956, GPCL is a state government company backed by the Government of Gujarat. It primarily focuses on renewable energy projects and plays a pivotal role in facilitating and developing energy initiatives within the state.
GPCL identifies power projects using various fuels, conducts feasibility studies, collaborates with private and joint sector partners, secures necessary clearances (e.g., environmental, land acquisition), and ensures fuel supply. Additionally, it holds the status of a nodal agency for solar park and other renewable projects, as designated by the Government of Gujarat.
The primary goal of GPCL is to discover power generation initiatives that utilize different fuel sources, with a special emphasis on renewable energy. It aims to create techno-economic feasibility reports for these power projects, pinpoint appropriate private sector or PSU partners, and collaboratively undertake these power projects. In cases where no interested party steps forward, GPCL may also independently execute these projects. Furthermore, GPCL assists private sector and PSU developers in establishing power projects within the state.
Vision
GPCL’s vision is to establish a solid foundation for the implementation of both conventional and non-conventional power projects, and to position Gujarat State as a leader in clean and green technology, ensuring a better and more sustainable future.
Mission
The mission is to foster private sector participation to enhance the power generation capacity of Gujarat. This involves:
- Preparing techno-economic feasibility reports for various projects.
- Obtaining all the necessary statutory and administrative approvals for identified projects, including land acquisition.
- Developing a comprehensive master plan for the power system in Gujarat State.
- Monitoring various power schemes undertaken by both public and private enterprises.
- Promoting power generation through the utilisation of non-conventional sources of energy.
In pursuit of its clean energy transition, GPCL has undertaken the development of several solar parks in the state of Gujarat, contributing significantly to the region’s renewable energy initiatives.
Charanka Solar Park Integration of Battery Energy Storage System
Gujarat, India’s clean energy landscape, hosts the renowned Gujarat Solar Park-1, also known as Charanka Solar Park. Spanning an expansive 2179 hectares in Patan district, this solar power plant boasts an impressive installed generation capacity of around 730 MW, solidifying Gujarat’s commitment to renewable energy.
GPCL owns 5 MW and 10 MW plants in Charanka, serving as a milestone in its renewable energy journey. This project sets the stage for a groundbreaking venture – the establishment of a Greenfield Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) integrated with the existing solar setup.
The primary goal of this innovative project is to optimise the utilisation of the 5 MW solar plant, complete with a 66 KV/220 KV Substation and associated transmission lines. GPCL envisions capturing the entire energy generated by the solar facility and storing it within the BESS. This stored energy will then be utilised during nonsolar peak hours, showcasing a commitment to efficiency and sustainability.
The Gujarat Solar Park-1, inaugurated in 2012 by the then Chief Minister Narendra Modi, has grown significantly since its inception. Initially home to about 250 MW capacity, it became the world’s thirdlargest photovoltaic power station by April 2012, with a total commissioning of 214 megawatts.
Today, the solar park hosts an installed generation capacity of approximately 730 MW, contributed by 36 developers within the park. Notable additions include a 30 MW Solar PV plant by Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL) and a 10 MW project by Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilisers and Chemicals (GNFC).
Looking to the future, GPCL is set to launch another groundbreaking project within Gujarat Solar Park. The forthcoming Greenfield 5 MW SPV Ground Mounted Project will incorporate a substantial 15/20 MWh BESS. This ambitious venture aims to maximise operational efficiency by storing solar energy during peak hours and distributing it during non-solar peak hours.
The Gujarat Solar Park is known for its innovation as it concentrates a large number of solar power units in one location, significantly reducing costs (by 40%) and lowering solar tariffs, promoting the development of large-scale solar power projects. Despite numerous challenges and complexities, GPCL has successfully implemented this high-value project in a short time, contributing significantly to India’s position as the Solar Capital of the World and bringing pride to Gujarat.
Dholera Solar Park
Nestled in the MahadevapuraBhangarh village near the Dholera region of Ahmedabad district, Gujarat, the Dholera Ultra Mega Solar Park (UMSP) is a sprawling venture spanning around 2,000 hectares of wasteland, specifically categorised under CRZ 1(B). This ambitious initiative is under the exclusive ownership of the Dholera Special Investment Region Authority (DSIRA). The first phase of the project, boasting a substantial capacity of 1,000 MW, has already made significant strides, with Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd successfully commissioning 300 MW in March 2022.
The Dholera Ultra Mega Solar Park has been strategically established on land controlled by DSIRA, securing “inprinciple” approvals from both the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and DICDL for the provision of recycled and potable water. The inaugural phase comprises 20 plots, and the comprehensive plan outlines a total of 96 plots for both Phase-I and the subsequent Phase-II.
Looking ahead to Phase-II, the Dholera UMSP is poised for a substantial expansion, with a targeted capacity of 4,000 MW. Notably, the project has already inked power procurement agreements with the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), underscoring its commitment to bolstering India’s renewable energy portfolio. As the solar park continues to take shape, GPCL has assumed the role of the selected developer for Phase-I, steering the development towards fruition.
The Dholera Ultra Mega Solar Park with its expansive scale, innovative approach to land utilisation, and commitment to sustainable practices such as water recycling epitomises the nation’s proactive stance in harnessing solar energy to meet its growing power demands. As it forges ahead into Phase-II, the Dholera UMSP stands as a testament to India’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable future, bolstering its position as a key player in the global renewable energy arena.
Raghanesda Solar Park
In 2014, the Government of Gujarat embarked on an ambitious initiative to harness solar energy by initiating plans for the Raghanesda Ultra Mega Solar Park in Banaskantha District. This colossal project was envisioned with a staggering capacity of 700 MW, reflecting the state’s commitment to renewable energy. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) of the Government of India gave its nod of approval for the establishment of this solar park at Raghanesda on December 1, 2014.
Taking a pivotal step towards its realisation, the Energy and Petrochemicals Department of Government of Gujarat played a crucial role. In a significant development on December 18, 2014, the Energy and Petrochemicals Department, through an official letter, appointed Gujarat Power Corporation Limited (GPCL) as the implementing agency for the development of the 700 MW Ultra Mega Solar Park in Rahhanesda. This decision was in accordance with the approval granted by MNRE. To facilitate this expansive solar endeavour, the Government of Gujarat allocated a substantial expanse of approximately 1,392 hectares of wasteland for the development of the Raghanesda Solar Park.
Situated around 271 km northwest of Ahmedabad, the Raghanesda Ultra Mega Solar Park site in Raghanesda village became a focal point for renewable energy enthusiasts and policymakers alike. The infrastructure groundwork for this monumental project has been diligently laid out, encompassing essential elements such as roads, water supply, communication networks, bunds, and power infrastructure. This comprehensive infrastructure development ensures the seamless functioning of the solar park.
As of now, the Raghanesda Ultra Mega Solar Park has made significant strides towards its energy production goals. A remarkable 600 MW of solar power projects have already been commissioned, marking a substantial achievement in the journey towards a sustainable energy future. Additionally, there is an ongoing effort to add another 100 MW to the existing capacity, indicating the project’s dynamic and evolving nature.
The Raghanesda Ultra Mega Solar Park stands as a testament to the proactive approach taken by the Government of Gujarat in embracing renewable energy solutions. The successful development and ongoing expansion of this solar park not only contribute to the state’s energy security but also serve as a model for sustainable development that can be replicated across the nation.
Current Status of Renewable Energy in Gujarat
Aligned with India’s ambitious national target of achieving 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, set by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the State of Gujarat has taken significant strides in the realm of renewable energy. This progress is in sync with the country’s broader objectives and reflects a strong commitment to sustainable development. Over the last decade, Gujarat has seen a remarkable increase in its renewable energy capacity, growing from 8 GW to a striking 22.7 GW. This growth not only establishes Gujarat as a leader in India’s green energy revolution but also positions it as a global model for sustainable energy practices. “Gujarat is actively collaborating with the Government of India to establish itself as the global “Green Hydrogen Capital”. We have pioneered an incentive scheme, the “Aatmanirbhar Gujarat Scheme for Assistance to Industries”, aimed at promoting Green Hydrogen Projects. Gujarat’s strategic focus extends to developing the entire value chain for Green Hydrogen. Abundant renewable energy resources, vital for Green Hydrogen generation, are readily available in the state. With India’s longest seacoast, Gujarat has a substantial water supply that can be efficiently desalinated for Green Hydrogen production. The Gujarat government has earmarked 1.99 lakh hectare of Government waste land to five companies for development of RE power plant for Green Hydrogen production Furthermore, the state’s 49 ports (1 major and 48 non-major) position it as an ideal gateway for exporting Green Hydrogen/ Ammonia to the global market.” says Bhupendrabhai Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat.
The state’s dedication to renewable energy is further evidenced by its per capita power consumption, which is about double the national average. This underscores the state’s reliance on renewable sources and its alignment with the country’s goal of installing 100 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. In pursuit of this, Gujarat has set its own ambitious targets, showcasing leadership and vision in this critical area.
Adding to this momentum, Gujarat has signed pioneering investment agreements totaling 7.17 trillion rupees (approximately $86.07 billion) with 58 corporations in sectors such as energy, oil and gas, and chemicals. These agreements, inked ahead of the biennial Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, aim to attract a record number of international and domestic investors, thereby cementing Gujarat’s role in defining India’s energy future.
Gujarat’s journey in renewable energy serves as a beacon of progress and a template for other states and nations. By effectively implementing wind, solar, and hybrid technologies, Gujarat demonstrates the potential of sustainable practices in transforming the world, proving that economic prosperity and environmental stewardship can indeed coexist.
The Winds of Change
Gujarat has taken some monumental steps towards harnessing offshore wind energy. The appointment of Gujarat Power Corporation Limited (GPCL) as the designated state agency for offshore wind energy development underscores the state’s unwavering commitment to sustainable energy practices and aligns with India’s ambitious goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
In its newfound role, GPCL assumes a pivotal position in advancing offshore wind projects. Serving as a central point of contact, GPCL will collaborate with national entities, facilitating seamless progress in offshore wind energy development. This strategic move is a testament to Gujarat’s proactive approach in shaping a green and sustainable energy future.
A significant milestone in this endeavour is the successful completion of the initial study conducted in the Bay of Cambay. This study highlights the immense potential of the region, revealing a staggering 36 GW offshore wind potential. Gujarat, with its long coastline spanning 1,600 km, emerges as a key hub for offshore wind projects.
The state government’s comprehensive report on offshore wind power generation further accentuates Gujarat’s prowess in renewable energy. The report indicates that the coastline has the potential for generating between 32 GW and 35 GW of offshore wind power. Considering the present wind power generation of 9,860.6 MW, Gujarat’s offshore wind initiatives signify a substantial leap towards achieving the national renewable energy target.
Identifying five zones along the coastline as conducive to offshore wind power generation, the state government has strategically planned for optimal utilisation of resources. These zones, covering a combined area of 8,159 sq km, have the potential to produce 37.2 GW of power, marking a significant contribution to the state’s clean energy portfolio.
These zones are strategically located along the Saurashtra, South Gujarat, and the Gulf of Khambhat coastlines, maximising the utilisation of Gujarat’s extensive coastal stretch.
Beyond the commendable energy generation capacity, Gujarat’s offshore wind initiatives promise multifaceted benefits. The drive towards renewable energy not only addresses the pressing need for cleaner power sources but also fosters job creation, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and aligns seamlessly with India’s broader clean energy agenda.
As Gujarat charts this pioneering course in offshore wind energy, it not only secures a sustainable energy future for the state but also positions itself as a beacon of innovation and progress in the realm of renewable energy on the national stage. With GPCL leading the charge, Gujarat’s journey towards a cleaner and greener future is poised for remarkable success.
Khavda – World’s Largest Renewable Energy Park in Kachchh
To contribute significantly to the Government of India’s renewable energy targets and address global sustainable development and climate change concerns, the Government of Gujarat has prioritised the development of renewable energy in the state. In 2019, the Government introduced a policy for the allotment of government wasteland for the establishment of large Wind, Solar, and Wind-Solar Hybrid Parks. The key objectives include harnessing government barren land in renewable energy-rich areas, efficiently utilising transmission networks through hybrid capacity in parks, reducing generation variability by combining multiple renewable energy sources, and promoting technological development in areas like wind, solar, and storage.
To fulfill these goals, the Government of Gujarat has earmarked a vast area of 72,400 hectares of government wasteland in Khavda, Kachchh, located on the IndoPakistan border, for the development of a RE park. This ground breaking project is set to become the world’s largest Renewable Energy park at a single location, showcasing a diverse range of renewable energy sources, predominantly wind and solar, along with energy storage technologies.
In an effort to significantly contribute to the Government of India’s renewable energy (RE) goals of 500 GW by 2030, and to support the global sustainable development agenda while addressing climate change concerns, the Government of Gujarat has taken a major step in promoting renewable energy within the state.
This initiative, aligned with the 2019 policy for allocating government wasteland for the development of large wind, solar, and wind-solar hybrid parks, aims to achieve several key objectives.
One of the paramount benefits of the Khavda Renewable Energy Park lies in its strategic use of otherwise unproductive land. By repurposing these arid expanses, the park not only mitigates the environmental impact of traditional energy projects but also ensures the efficient use of resources. This approach aligns with the broader goal of creating a cleaner and greener future for the region.
Furthermore, the park is set to play a pivotal role in reducing the overall cost of power. The economies of scale achieved through the centralised production of renewable energy will contribute to cost-effectiveness, making clean energy more accessible to a larger population. This, in turn, holds the potential to alleviate the burden of energy costs on households and industries alike.
A notable aspect of the Khavda Renewable Energy Park is its capacity to generate employment opportunities. As the park becomes operational, numerous job openings will emerge, spanning across various skill sets and sectors. This not only bolsters the local economy but also fosters skill development and knowledge transfer in the renewable energy sector.
In terms of technological advancements, the park serves as a testing ground for cuttingedge technologies, particularly in the realm of energy storage. The integration of innovative storage solutions enhances the reliability and stability of the power grid, addressing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources.
Additionally, the Khavda Renewable Energy Park promotes the optimization of transmission infrastructure. High-capacity transmission corridors eliminate the need for multiple lines from individual projects, streamlining land use and mitigating rightof-way issues. This approach enhances the overall efficiency of energy transmission, ensuring that the generated power reaches its intended destinations seamlessly.
In conclusion, the Khavda Renewable Energy Park is a visionary initiative that goes beyond power generation, aiming to create a sustainable and inclusive model for socio-economic growth. Through its multifaceted impact on land utilisation, cost-effectiveness, employment generation, and technological advancements, this park is poised to usher in a new era of green progress for Gujarat and beyond.
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