West Bengal Green Energy Corporation Limited (WBGECL), state’s nodal renewable energy agency, has sought Expression of Interest (EoIs) from private players for developing a total of 50 megawatt (Mw) of renewable energy.
Confirming the development, S P Gon Chaudhuri, managing director, WBGECL said, “We have sought EoI on August 3, inviting potential private players in the renewable energy space for generating 50 Mw, combining all the renewable sources taken together. We hope to complete the process of selection within a month.” Last date for submission of the EoIs is August 17. The 50 Mw power will be distributed among the shortlisted players. There could be at least 10-15 projects, said Gon Chaudhuri. The state at present sources only 2-3 per cent of its total power requirement from renewable energy source, roughly 100 Mw, of which nearly half comes from solar and rest from biomass.
This is despite the fact that West Bengal has a potential of close to 16,000 Mw of solar, 400 Mw of wind, 350 MW of biomass and 250 Mw of small hydro renewable power. “We are looking at developing 50 Mw with the help of private participation. An internal review committee would be shortlisting the interested private parties and the projects will be alloted within one month," pointed out Gon Chaudhuri.
WBGECL's target is to source a minimum of 150 Mw of power from renewable energy by 2011-12. By 2015, this would be scaled up to 500 Mw which would require investment of Rs 5,000 crore or more. In order to attract more private investment, the state is planning a new seperate state-level renewable energy policy and new incentive scheme, which is underway.
Since the cost of production in the case of renewable energy is comparatively higher compared to conventional energy, attractive tariff rates are key to attracting private investment. “The new tariff order for renewable energy is in the final stage. It is expected by next month. We have suggested a revision of rates in order to attract more private investment. We are expecting it to be on the higher side,” said Gon Chaudhuri. The new tariff order is being worked out by the State Electricity Regulatory Commission. Under the present tariff rate, solar power in Bengal attracts a rate of Rs 11, while wind power attracts Rs 4 per watt. This is against rates like Rs 13 for solar and Rs 3.75 for wind followed in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
