Key Power Sector News Roundup for September 23, 2024
CEA Clears Two Hydro Pumped Storage Projects in Maharashtra
The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has approved two hydro pumped storage projects in Maharashtra, the 1,500 MW Bhavali PSP by JSW Energy and the 1,000 MW Bhivpuri PSP by Tata Power, adding 15 GWh of storage. For FY25, 15 hydro PSPs totaling 25,500 MW are planned.
Ministry of Power Issues EV Charging Infrastructure Guidelines for 2024
The Ministry of Power has issued 2024 guidelines for EV charging infrastructure, allowing public, semi-public, and private stations to operate as a de-licensed activity. The guidelines aim to establish one charging station every 1 km in urban areas and every 20 km on highways by 2030. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) will oversee the rollout and maintain a national charging database.
BHEL Wins Rs 61 Billion Order from NTPC for Sipat Thermal Power Project
Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL) has secured a Rs 61 billion order from NTPC for an EPC package at the 1×800 MW Sipat supercritical thermal power project (Stage III) in Chhattisgarh. The project, set for completion by September 2028, will boost Sipat’s capacity to 3,780 MW, enhancing power supply to the western region of India.
Kerala’s Green Hydrogen Valley to Launch with Rs 185.42 Billion Investment
The Kochi Green Hydrogen Valley project in Kerala will reshape the state’s energy landscape with a Rs 185.42 billion investment. The project, spanning three phases, will focus on green hydrogen clusters, renewable energy expansion, and hydrogen technology advancement.
India Signs Key IPEF Agreements on Clean and Fair Economy
On September 21, 2024, India signed Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) agreements for Clean and Fair Economy during Prime Minister Modi’s US visit. The Clean Economy agreement focuses on renewable energy investments and concessional financing, while the Fair Economy agreement enhances trade transparency and combats corruption. At the IPEF Investor Forum, USD 23 billion in infrastructure projects were identified, with significant contributions from India.
US DOE Allocates Over $3 Billion for Battery Manufacturing Across 14 States
The US Department of Energy (DOE) has committed over $3 billion to fund 25 battery manufacturing projects across 14 states. Part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America initiative, the projects aim to enhance domestic battery production, create over 12,000 jobs, and reduce reliance on China. Investments include key mineral processing facilities, with a total expected impact of $16 billion.
PLN Outlines Energy Transition Strategy, Targets Net Zero by 2060
At the Indonesia International Sustainability Forum 2024, PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) unveiled its energy transition strategy, aiming for net zero emissions by 2060. Focusing on reliability, affordability, and sustainability, PLN plans to achieve 52% renewable energy by 2030, accelerating renewable energy development to account for 75% of new capacity, with 25% from natural gas.