Bhubaneswar:In a significant push towards achieving its green energy targets, Odisha is rapidly strengthening its power infrastructure under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision.
Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Empowerment and Energy, Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, recently conducted a comprehensive review of all power projects, both new and ongoing, undertaken by GRIDCO at Lok Seva Bhavan.
Principal Secretary, Energy & E&IT, Shri Vishal Kumar Dev, presented the state’s power sector roadmap, emphasizing Odisha’s dedication to sustainable energy development.
The state is moving aggressively to expand its renewable energy portfolio, with GRIDCO developing a total of 10,960 MW of green power projects. This ambitious pipeline includes:
- 7500 MW of solar projects: Highlighting the state’s commitment to harnessing abundant solar resources.
- 2000 MW of wind power projects: Tapping into wind energy potential to diversify the renewable mix.
- 1200 MW of Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs): Crucial for grid stability and integrating intermittent renewable sources, demonstrating a forward-looking approach to energy storage.
- Other small hydroelectric projects: Contributing to the overall clean energy capacity.
The Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Singh Deo, took a proactive stance in the review meeting, directly examining reasons for project delays and engaging with concerned officers over the phone to expedite work.
Significantly, Shri Singh Deo revealed that many of the hurdles in project implementation, such as land allocation, environmental clearances, and logistic support, had been personally presented and resolved with the Government of India during his recent visit to Delhi. This direct intervention underscores the state’s determination to fast-track these crucial green energy initiatives.
The meeting saw the participation of key officials, including Principal Secretary, Energy & E&IT, Shri Vishal Kumar Dev, MD GRIDCO, Dr. Satya Priya Rath, Special Secretary Shri Debidutta Tripathi, Additional Secretary, Nibedita Mishra, and senior officers from GRIDCO, OREDA, and the Energy Department, signaling a concerted effort towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for Odisha.
The state aims to meet 33% of its power needs from renewable sources by 2036 and an impressive 50% by 2047, reinforcing its position as a key player in India’s green energy transition.