State makes a pitch for renewable energy SEZ

NEW DELHI: Maharashtra may host the proposed Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for manufacturing of renewable energy equipment and devices. The Centre, which had proposed a SEZ for renewable energy, is considering Maharashtra as one of the ideal destinations.

“Maharashtra chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh expressed his eagerness to set up the SEZ for renewable in his state. This was conveyed to union minister of state for non-conventional energy sources, Vilas Muttemwar, on Sunday,” official sources said.

The chief minister has said that the state government would provide all necessary support for the successful implementation of the project. The state could be an ideal location as it has significant achievements in renewable, especially wind energy,” a senior government official said. Mr Muttemwar was in Nagpur to celebrate Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urja Diwas.

The proposed SEZ has generated good response from both domestic and foreign investors. “Germany has shown interest in the SEZ. It is expected that a business delegation from Germany would soon visit India to explore the possibilities of investments in the SEZ for renewable,” he said. The SEZ would provide duty benefits and provide comprehensive infrastructure facilities including power.