Clean energy sector makes case for national council

New Delhi: The renewable energy industry has made a case for creating a National Renewables Council and extending waiver of inter-state transmission system (ISTS) charges.

One of the key challenges facing India's green energy transition to reach the target of 500 GW capacity by 2030 is in inter-state cooperation, as projects often face roadblocks in land acquisition and logistical hurdles in power transmission.

Among its pre-budget demands, the green energy sector wants the government to establish a central body that can help resolve inter-state challenges.


"To address the broader needs of the renewable energy sector, I suggest a National Renewables Council, a central body to resolve inter-state challenges, fast-track land allocations and drive large-scale energy storage deployment," Avaada Group chairman Vineet Mittal said.

The industry wants the waiver of ISTS charges for renewable energy projects to be extended beyond the current deadline of June.

The growth in electricity demand and the rising share of renewables put focus on the development of energy storage capacities. "Measures to fast-track the development of battery storage and pumped hydro storage projects remain important," said Vikram V, vice-president and co-group head - corporate ratings, at ICRA.

To make these storage solutions more viable, the green energy sector has advocated for a cut in goods and services tax on battery energy storage systems, Avaada's Mittal said.

Renewable energy will play a key role in India's net zero target by 2070 and halving its carbon emissions. With a focus on solar, wind, green hydrogen, and energy storage, the sector aims for energy security, reliability, affordability, sustainability and achieving net-zero goals, attracting substantial investments and global partnerships, said Sambitosh Mohapatra, partner and leader - ESG, climate and energy at PwC India.

Renewable energy installations are currently at 28 GW in the ongoing financial year and the upcoming projects are likely to be firm and dispatchable, also called FDRE projects.