Bhubaneswar, 8 February (H.S.): The Odisha Cabinet has approved important amendments to the Odisha Renewable Energy Policy 2022, aimed at boosting renewable energy projects in the state.

As per the amendments, renewable energy projects in Odisha will now receive an exemption of 50% on wheeling charges, significantly up from the previous 25% exemption. This change is designed to provide substantial financial relief and encourage greater investment in renewable energy initiatives. For renewable energy projects that do not qualify for the enhanced exemption, the current 25% exemption on wheeling charges will remain in place.

The earlier restriction on the installation of wind farms within 1 km of residential areas (housing 10 or more families) has been revised. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, updated its guidelines on July 4, 2024, which have now been incorporated into the state policy, allowing more flexibility in siting wind energy projects.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda