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Global energy systems face uneven progress

  The world’s energy systems are being redefined. What was once a single transition to cleaner energy has become a broader and more complex transformation. It is no longer only about climate change—it is also about economic resilience, geopolitical security, and industrial competitiveness. In this new context, the World Economic Forum’s “Fostering Effective Energy Transition 2025” report captures where the world stands today. Based on the Energy Transition Index (ETI), which evaluates 118 countries, the…

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Electricity derivatives: Revolutionizing India’s power market

  Since 2016–17, India has transitioned from being a net importer to a net exporter of electricity. Yet, the sector remains weighed down by long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs). These PPAs offer stability but also limit flexibility. This article integrates insights from NSE’s Concept Paper on Electricity Derivatives and MCX’s Price Risk Management in the Indian Power Market, alongside details on MCX’s trading framework, to provide a comprehensive analysis of how derivatives are transforming India’s…

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India’s solar boom brings big wins but leaves key gaps

  India’s journey into solar energy began with ambition and urgency. Back in 2010, the National Solar Mission (NSM) was launched to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and build domestic energy security. With targets initially set at 20 GW of solar capacity by 2022, the scale grew rapidly. When the BJP government took charge in 2014, it raised the bar, aiming for 100 GW. According to a 2025 policy brief from the…

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FACTS devices in modern power systems

Flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices use power electronics to dynamically control voltage, impedance and phase angle in AC networks. They improve stability, boost transfer capacity, and enhance power quality in heavily loaded grids and those with high renewable penetration. Traditional transmission systems are rigid and slow to respond. FACTS devices solve this by adding voltage or current in a controlled way, either in series or parallel with the line. This real-time control helps reduce…

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Powering East and Northeast India’s clean energy future

  At the Rising North East Investor Summit 2025, energy emerged as a core focus of India’s development agenda for the region. The summit attracted Rs 4.3 trillion in investment proposals, with energy and infrastructure leading interest. Mukesh Ambani committed Rs 75,000 crore, Gautam Adani pledged Rs 50,000 crore, and Anil Agarwal over Rs 30,000 crore. Several proposals target clean energy, including new hydro and transmission infrastructure. Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad…

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Can your river power your home? A practical guide to small-scale hydro systems

  Solar panels are common in off-grid setups, but they do not work well in cloudy, shaded, or seasonal conditions. If your land has a nearby stream or river, small-scale hydro power may be a reliable alternative. This guide explains how to assess your site and choose the right hydro system. Hydro power can offer continuous output where water flow is steady. But it is not as simple as placing a turbine in the water….

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How Long Do Scheduled Nuclear Reactor Shutdowns Take?

  In nuclear power generation, not all shutdowns are emergencies. Many are planned well in advance for regular refuelling, equipment maintenance, or regulatory inspections. These scheduled outages are an essential part of operating a safe and efficient nuclear power plant. But how long do they take? And how do the timelines compare across global reactors and Indian facilities, especially those using Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) or Pressurised Water Reactors (PWRs)? Understanding this process requires…

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India projects 0.9% energy surplus but 1.2% peak deficit in 2025-26

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has released the Load Generation Balance Report (LGBR) for 2025-26, projecting a modest all-India energy surplus of 0.9% and a peak power deficit of 1.2%. The LGBR draws on inputs from Regional Power Committees (RPCs), generation utilities, and system operators. Overview of anticipated demand and supply CEA estimates gross electricity generation at 2,000 billion units (BU) for 2025-26, comprising 1,725 BU from conventional sources, including imports from Bhutan, and 275 BU…

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Why solar components remain expensive in the US

  In much of Southeast Asia, solar components are priced significantly lower than in the United States. A 600W Tier 1 solar panel from Canadian Solar or Jinko costs around $80. A 12kW inverter from Deye (marketed as Solar-Aark) is priced at $1,700. A 14.3kWh Dyness battery is available for $1,750. These are end-user prices from distributors, including warranty support. In contrast, solar system quotes in the US can reach $46,000 for a 12kWh system….

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India’s largest hybrid renewable energy park in Kutch

  The 30,000 MW wind-solar hybrid power project underway in Gujarat’s Kutch district is among India’s largest renewable energy initiatives. The project comprises 26,000 MW of solar and 4,000 MW of wind capacity.  Gujarat Industries Power Company Limited (GIPCL) is the nodal agency. Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) is developing the project. This project is part of a broader plan to develop wind-solar hybrid parks on barren land near the Indo-Pak border in Rajasthan and…