New Delhi, 30 September (H.S.):

The central government has approved the third phase of the Green Energy Corridor (GEC-III) scheme, aimed at developing the inter-state power transmission system along with battery energy storage infrastructure. The scheme will facilitate the evacuation of 135 GW of renewable energy and support the development of 50 GW of battery energy storage capacity.

The project will involve an estimated investment of Rs. 1,86,405 crore, including central financial assistance of Rs. 54,082 crore. The scheme is targeted for implementation by the financial year 2032-33. The central assistance is also expected to help reduce intra-state transmission charges and contain the cost of electricity.

The proposal was approved by the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw briefed the national media at the National Media Centre on the Cabinet decisions.

According to the minister, the initiative will facilitate the integration of renewable energy within states and streamline power evacuation. It will also strengthen inter-state transmission infrastructure. The scheme is expected to contribute towards the national target of establishing 900 GW of non-fossil fuel-based power capacity by 2035.

Vaishnaw said the initiative would help address intermittent power supply, grid congestion and power shortages during periods of peak demand. It would also help meet electricity requirements during periods when solar power generation is unavailable.

GEC-III is expected to play a significant role in helping India achieve its target of 900 GW of installed non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2035. The initiative is also expected to contribute to long-term energy security, reduce the country’s carbon footprint and generate employment across the power, manufacturing, construction and energy-storage sectors.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar