Rajasthan’s achievements in power infrastructure have been remarkable, with a total installed power capacity of 39.11 GW as of May 2023. Notably, renewable energy sources account for approximately 58 per cent of the state’s total installed power capacity.
Solar power plays a pivotal role in Rajasthan. The state has surpassed Karnataka and Gujarat, establishing itself as a leader in the solar energy space by developing over 10 GW of solar power capacity. Solar energy accounts for approximately 44 per cent of the overall state’s installed power capacity and 76 per cent of its renewable energy capacity. To provide context, Rajasthan alone contributes 17.1 GW of solar power to the country’s total installed capacity of 49 GW.
The state has effectively harnessed its wind resources, earning the third position in terms of the total installed wind power capacity, which stood at 5.1 GW as of May 30, 2023. In addition to its achievements in renewable power generation, Rajasthan has also made significant strides in promoting and adopting electric vehicles (EVs). Through innovative policies, extensive infrastructure development and a proactive approach to clean energy, the state has emerged as a trailblazer in the field of electric mobility.
Renewable Watch takes a look at recent tenders, regulatory obligations and the outlook for the renewable energy sector in Rajasthan…
Recent tenders
In June 2023, Ajmer Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited floated a tender for developing a 72,33 MW grid-connected solar power project under Component C of the PM-KUSUM scheme for feeder solarisation. In the same month, Jodhpur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited (JDVVNL) issued seven tenders for the installation and commissioning of 532.12 MW of grid-connected solar power in various subdivisions of the Jalore circle under the PM-KUSUM scheme.
In May 2023, Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited and JDVVNL issued tenders for the installation and commissioning of 347 MW and 452 MW of grid-connected solar projects under the PM-KUSUM scheme, respectively. In the same period, Rajasthan Electronics and Instruments invited bids to empanel agencies for location identification and installation of 222 EV charging stations across the country.
In April 2023, PFC Consulting Limited invited bids to build an interstate transmission system for the evacuation of power from Rajasthan renewable energy zones on a build-own-operate-transfer basis.
In March 2023, JDVVL floated a tender to develop 24 projects with an aggregate capacity of 60.48 MW under Component C of the PM-KUSUM scheme in various subdivisions of Jaisalmer.
In January 2023, Rajasthan Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (RUVNL) invited bids to set up 1,500 MW of interstate transmission system-connected wind-solar hybrid power projects anywhere in India with the required storage, enabling distribution companies to have flexibility in scheduling power. The Rajasthan government signed MoUs for nearly Rs 1.23 trillion in renewable energy projects under the Rajasthan investment programme. In addition, RUVNL floated a tender to develop 1 GW of state transmission utility-connected solar power projects in the state.
Future outlook
Rajasthan’s future in the renewable energy space seems promising. With its abundant renewable resources, favourable policies and a proactive approach towards greening the grid, the state is well positioned to lead India’s clean energy ambitions. Going forward, positive regulations will play a pivotal role in further improving the business environment for renewable energy development. In May 2023, the Rajasthan Electricity Regulatory Commission proposed amendments to streamline procedures for developing renewable energy projects for captive use, such as allowing banking annually, making it attractive for end-users.
In addition, three new regulations have been proposed to implement green energy tariffs, green certificates and ratings in line with the Green Energy Open Access Rules, 2022. The commission has issued the draft Terms and Conditions for Tariff Determination from Renewable Energy Sources (First Amendment) Regulations, 2023, which propose changes related to the green energy tariff, captive generating projects, banking of energy, transmission and wheeling charges, and green certificates. Moreover, a new renewable purchase obligation trajectory until 2029-30, including energy storage, has been announced by the commission in June 2023. The changes align with the regulation issued by the Ministry of Power and will be effective from April 1, 2024.
Rajasthan has set ambitious targets to accelerate the growth of its renewable energy capacity. In 2023-24, the state aims to install 11 GW of renewable energy projects. By scaling up solar and wind power deployment, adopting hybrid energy solutions and fostering partnerships, Rajasthan is positioned to create a greener, cleaner and more prosperous future for its residents and make a significant contribution to India’s renewable energy targets.
By Anusshka Duggal
