The Indian government is increasing its quest to forge international collaboration in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and energy storage systems. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is negotiating with various countries under MoUs, joint declarations and energy dialogues.
Partnerships Span Over 40 Countries
India has entered into cooperation agreements with other countries worldwide. These are Australia, Germany, Japan, the USA, the UAE, France and the UK, among others. The country also belongs to the India-Brazil-South Africa trilateral forum and is closely associated with the International Renewable Energy Agency.
These alliances revolve around the exchange of policies, training of human resources, and joint research. These discussions involve government and private-sector officials.
Policy Reforms Push Sector Forward
The government has launched a number of initiatives to modernise the renewable energy sector. It has established a bidding plan for 50 GW/annum of renewable energy for the years FY 2023-24 and FY 2027-28. This push is being led by several agencies, including SECI, NTPC, NHPC, and SJVN.
Under the automatic route, 100 per cent FDI is now permitted, allowing foreign investors to invest in the sector. The government has also waived the inter-state transmission charge for renewable projects.
Digital Tools and Quality Standards
Under PM Surya Ghar and PM-KUSUM schemes, there is the use of new digital platforms in monitoring projects. The sophisticated mapping devices enable developers to select superior locations on solar and wind.
There is also increased quality control. There is now an Approved List of Models and Manufacturers of solar panels and wind turbines that are maintained by the government. There are already solar modules and inverters standard labelling programs in place.
Green Open Access Rules Notified
Green power is now available to any consumer with a 100 kW or greater contract demand under the 2022 Green Energy Open Access Rules. Power exchanges trade renewable energy in the Green Term Ahead Market.
These details were contained in a written reply that was given in the Rajya Sabha by Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik.
