Date:22/01/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/01/22/stories/2005012201991500.htm

Back MSEB looks to wind power, biomass to tackle shortage

Our Bureau

Pune , Jan. 21

THE Maharashtra State Electricity Board (MSEB) is all set to tackle the worsening power situation in the State through more projects harnessing wind power and biomass.

The MSEB plans to invest about Rs 150 crore in a 40-MW wind energy project, according to the State Energy Minister, Mr Dilip Walse-Patil.

Talking to presspersons on the sidelines of the International Congress on Renewable Energy, organised by the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture , Solar Energy Society of India, United Nations Development Programme, MNES and Mitcon Ltd, he said plans were still in the initial stages.

Mr Patil said the investment is being made to show that the State Government is committed in taking steps to produce energy from non-conventional fuels and renewable resources.Mr Patil said the State Government has already signed the Power Purchase Agreement with sugar mills to produce 300 MW of electricity. The State has an installed capacity of 400 MW from the wind power segment; it has the potential to generate about 6,500 MW from renewable resources, of which about 3,500 MW could be generated through wind.

Detailing the Ministry's other plans, Mr Patil said the State Government has introduced a four paise cess on every unit sold to the industries and commercial consumers; the amount that would be garnered through this cess is expected to touch Rs 85 crore this year.

Mr A.M. Gokhale, Secretary, Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources, said the Commission of Renewable Energy has approved a village energy security plan. Biomass, including cow dung, would be the base of the plan.

The Ministry was also in the process of finalising a scheme to offer incentives/rewards for those who opted for the renewable energy sources, he said.

A plan has also been drawn up to constitute district advisory committee to implement the renewable energy projects, Mr Gokhale said. About 300 districts, out of 600, have already begun the process.

The Ministry is also giving incentives in a big way to boost use of solar water heaters, he said.