Uttar Pradesh has published a draft solar policy with a goal to install 1 GW of solar photovoltaic (PV) and concentrating solar power (CSP) plants by 2017. An initial goal of 150 MW by 2014 has also been set.
The draft document does not specify a breakdown by technology between PV and CSP, but does include incentives, the removal of wheeling charges and establishment of eligibility criteria for investors. Bridge to India notes that the policy has been introduced to fulfill Uttar Pradesh’s Solar Renewable Purchase Obligation of 2.8 GW by 2020.
In view of the fact that the conventional sources of power are fast depleting and pose threat of environment pollution too, the challenge before the State Government is not only to meet the ever growing demand for power but also to progressively increase the share of renewable sources in the power-mix so as to achieve overall energy security.
The State of Uttar Pradesh is endowed with vast potential of solar power and the Government is keen to tap this resource to improve the availability of power in the State by promoting the establishment of solar energy based power projects, both grid connected and off-grid type.
