United States- India Strategic Dialogue announces projects in energy and aviation

During the annual U.S.-India Strategic Dialogue, which was concluded today in New Delhi by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency announced two new projects that demonstrate the strength of the Agency's public-private partnerships in energy and aviation.

USTDA signed a grant agreement with Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited (GETCO), a leading electrical company in Gujarat to support the integration of renewable energy sources into its power transmission system as its supply of solar and wind power grows.

This technical assistance will allow GETCO to analyze its power system through modeling and statistical techniques, and to develop strategies to ensure appropriate load balancing and frequency regulation for its transmission operations. This project will be carried out by Quanta Technology, LLC (Raleigh, NC).

"We are pleased to support this effort to identify U.S. solutions that can enhance the reliability of transmission networks as renewable power sources become a growing part of India's energy mix, and we are also proud to continue our track record of connecting U.S. experts to projects that will help India implement its vision of a modern aviation infrastructure with a new effort in aviation security," said USTDA Regional Director Henry Steingass.

USTDA announced a cooperation agreement with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) to establish an Aviation Security Equipment Testing and Evaluation Program.

The proposed Program, which would be the first security initiative under the U.S.-India Aviation Cooperation Program (ACP), will help AAI and BCAS develop clear standards, specifications and testing procedures that align with international systems that scan carry-on luggage, checked baggage and airline passengers.

By 2020, India is expected to become one of the top three worldwide aviation markets, with a projected total traffic flow of more than 450 million passengers per year.

During a roundtable with ACP members, Regional Director Steingass remarked how adequate security procedures and equipment will help ensure the successful growth of Indian airports, especially those that cater to passengers traveling to destinations in the U.S. and Europe that require stringent security measures for inbound international flights.

Three U.S. companies, all members of the ACP, would work with AAI and BCAS to enhance India's aviation officials' capacity to effectively test, certify and procure advanced scanning technologies.

The Program would also involve participation by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which will host collaborative visits of Indian aviation security officials at TSA's testing labs in the United States.

USTDA helps companies create U.S. jobs through the export of U.S. goods and services for priority development projects in emerging economies.

USTDA links U.S. businesses to export opportunities by funding project planning activities, pilot projects, and reverse trade missions while creating sustainable infrastructure and economic growth in partner countries.