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India’s Power Generation Schemes: A Factual Snapshot

India has implemented several schemes to increase power generation capacity and improve energy access. Below is an overview of the key power generation schemes, including the latest facts and figures: Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) Launched: 2014 Objective: Strengthen rural power infrastructure and provide continuous power supply to rural areas. Achievements: As of 2024, over 100,000 villages have been electrified, and feeder separation has been completed in 19 states. Integrated Power Development Scheme…

AI’s Rising Energy Demand is Reshaping the Future of Data Centers and Power Supply

At Climate Week in New York, discussions are centered on the rising energy demand driven by artificial intelligence. Last week, it was revealed that Microsoft would use electricity from the resurrected Three Mile Island nuclear plant to power its data centers. In a recent report, Bloomberg highlighted that OpenAI had approached the Biden administration regarding plans for large-scale data centers, each capable of consuming energy equivalent to that of a whole city. This trend is…

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Accelerating Wind Repowering in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu stands as a leader in India’s power sector, ranking third in the nation with a total installed power capacity of 39.7 GW as of March 2024. Of this, renewable energy accounts for 56%, with wind power contributing a substantial 10.7 GW, making Tamil Nadu the second-highest in India for wind energy capacity. Coal and lignite dominate the state’s energy generation, comprising 37% of the installed capacity, while wind energy accounts for 26.7% of…

Key Power Sector News Roundup for September 26, 2024

MERC approves MSEDCL’s procurement of 5,991 MW solar power The Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) approved MSEDCL’s procurement of 5,991 MW solar power under Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana 2.0. The Rs 3.10 per kWh ceiling tariff ensures competitive pricing. This initiative aims to solarize 30% of agricultural feeders by 2025, helping meet rising renewable purchase obligation (RPO) targets and easing Koyna hydroelectric plant’s peak demand. Zelestra signs 450 MW solar power supply agreement with…

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ANDRITZ enhances Brazilian grid stability with synchronous condensers

International technology group ANDRITZ has signed two contracts to supply 330 MVAr synchronous condenser systems to Brazil. These installations will play a key role in stabilizing the Brazilian power grid, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring a more reliable power supply. One condenser will support transmission lines between Bahia and Minas Gerais, while the other will assist the Ceará-Crateús region. ANDRITZ’s manufacturing hub in Araraquara, São Paulo, will produce these systems. The scope of supply includes mechanical…

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CIP acquires 255 MW Scatter Wash battery storage project in Arizona

Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), through its CI V fund, has acquired the 255 MW / 1,020 MWh Scatter Wash battery energy storage (BESS) project from Strata Clean Energy in Phoenix, Arizona. Construction began in early 2024, with commercial operations expected in the first half of 2025. Strata will remain as the construction and asset manager. The project secured a 20-year tolling agreement with Arizona Public Service (APS) in 2023, and financing was arranged in February…

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PPA and DOE partner to modernize ports for offshore wind development

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has teamed up with the Department of Energy (DOE) to support offshore wind project development by upgrading key port infrastructure. PPA will design and repurpose three priority ports: the Port of Currimao in Ilocos Norte, the Port of Batangas, and the Port of Jose Panganiban in Camarines Norte. The Port of Currimao is near 13 offshore wind energy service contracts (OWESCs) with a potential capacity of 9,489 MW, while the…

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Energy compacts garner $1.4 trillion to tackle global electricity and clean cooking crisis by 2030

New commitments aimed at expanding renewable energy and increasing access to electricity and clean cooking technologies have brought the total finance pledged through the United Nations for the global energy transition to US$ 1.4 trillion. This update was revealed in the third edition of the Energy Compacts Annual Progress Report, launched at the EnergyNow SDG7 Action Forum alongside the UN General Assembly. The report highlights that since the Energy Compacts initiative began in 2021, significant…

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IAEA head expresses confidence in re-engaging nuclear talks with Iran

Rafael Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), expressed optimism that Iran will re-engage with the nuclear watchdog after a recent discussion with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. Speaking on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Grossi said Iranian officials indicated a willingness to collaborate more meaningfully with the IAEA. The IAEA and Iran have had a strained relationship, particularly after Iran barred enrichment experts from the agency’s inspection team and failed…

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Research suggests slower flight speeds to reduce emissions

A new study from the University of Cambridge proposes that reducing flight speeds by 15% could lower fuel consumption by 5–7%, contributing to more sustainable air travel. The report acknowledges potential downsides, such as longer flight times and potential resistance from passengers, but emphasizes the importance of such measures for reducing aviation emissions. The report also calls for faster replacement of older aircraft with more efficient models and advocates for planes to be used on…