M'rashtra plans tidal energy project

The state government, Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA) and Sangli-based company, Apar Urja Pvt Ltd (AUPL) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to produce 15 to 25 Kilo Watt (KW) of electricity from tidal waves at Budhalgaon in Ratnagiri district.

Speaking to reporters, director general of MEDA, Mahesh Zagde said, "the cost of this project is estimated at around Rs 40 lakh and it is expected to start functioning from March or April next year".

If this project becomes successful then the capacity of the project will be increased to 250 KW, he added.

However, he did not divulge the details about the cost if the capacity has to be increased from 25 KW to 250 KW.

He further said, "under the conditions of MoU, MEDA will finance the entire project and AUPL will bring the technology and once technology is proven and patented then royalty will be split between MEDA and AUPL on 50:50 basis".

Maharashtra has 720 kilometer long coastline and various study shows that, we have potential to generate 4 to 5 Mega Watt (MW) power per kilometer of coastline, Zagade claimed.