NTPC's 15,000-Mw solar projects approved

The Cabinet on Wednesday approved 15,000 Mw of grid-connected solar power projects of state-owned National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC). This target is in line with the National Democratic Alliance government's ambitious target of 100,000 Mw of solar power by 2022.

The NTPC would execute this scheme in three tranches through its wholly owned power trading arm NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam. The entailed investment for the first phase is Rs 18,000 crore. Land for 1,000 Mw out of the first tranche of 3,000 Mw has been identified in Andhra Pradesh.

Another facility with 5,000-Mw capacity will be set up with the government support will be decided after getting some experience while implementing first phase and the balance 7,000 Mw.