UP plans solar-powered mini grids to end power woes

Energy deficient Uttar Pradesh has drafted a solar mini-grid policy to provide electricity to rural areas while reducing burden on the main grid.

UP Electricity Regulatory Commission (UPERC) has also initiated deliberations on electrification of remote villages through solar-powered mini grids.

"The mini-grid policy is ready. The energy department will soon send it to the state Cabinet for approval," UP New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA) director Kajal said.

Apart from public sector firms, private companies will be roped in to set up mini-grid projects ranging from 10Kw to 500Kw.

A consumer will be able to draw power from these independent grids when the main grid fails to meet the demand. It will also help millions of households that are yet to be linked with the conventional power grid.

In a recent meeting chaired by UPERC chief Desh Deepak Verma, it was decided to grant special status to mini grids as they would facilitate rural consumers who either do not have access to electricity or lack supply. Solar grids will also help in reducing UP's carbon footprint.

Issued like tariff regulation, minimum supply commitment, compatibility with distribution companies and safeguarding of investment will be clear when the state government approves the policy draft.

UP has power supply deficit of up to 2,000 Mw. The state government has set a target of 500Mw solar power projects in the next couple of years with major private investment. "We have signed many power purchase agreements (PPA) in this regard," Kajal added.