In a significant step towards a greener future, the Andhra Pradesh (A.P.) government has unveiled its Integrated Clean Energy (ICE) policy, aiming to transform the state into a clean energy hub by 2047.
The policy, with a five-year control period, envisions a massive investment of Rs. 10 lakh crore and the addition of 160 GW of new renewable energy (RE) capacity. This ambitious plan aligns with India’s broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Leveraging Andhra Pradesh’s Renewable Energy Potential
The ICE policy aims to harness Andhra Pradesh’s abundant renewable energy resources, including wind, solar, and hybrid power, as well as storage capabilities through pumped storage projects. Moreover, the state’s extensive coastline, with ten operational and under-development ports, further enhances its potential for offshore renewable energy generation.
A New Entity to Drive Implementation
To ensure effective implementation, the government will establish a new entity, the New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh (NREDCAP), which will serve as the nodal agency for overseeing the policy’s execution.
Promoting Emerging Clean Energy Technologies
The policy supports emerging clean energy technologies like offshore wind, geothermal, tidal, and oceanic energies. To promote these, the government will offer VGF or capital subsidies for pilot projects.
Overcoming Past Challenges
Andhra Pradesh, with high renewable energy potential, has struggled to develop it due to a lack of support from the state government and local DISCOMs. The new ICE policy seeks to solve these problems.
A Promising Step Towards a Greener Future
The Integrated Clean Energy policy is a positive step for Andhra Pradesh and India’s clean energy transition. It offers clear incentives that can attract commercial, industrial consumers, and independent power producers. This could make Andhra Pradesh a leader in clean energy development and a global hub for clean energy manufacturing and export.
Reference- JMK Research article, Mercom India, Economic Times