Daily Current Affairs : 19-October-2023
In a significant move towards bolstering India’s renewable energy sector, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs recently gave the green signal for the Green Energy Corridor (GEC) Phase-II – Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) project. This ambitious endeavor aims to facilitate a 13 GW Renewable Energy Project in Ladakh, a region that has been at the forefront of India’s renewable energy initiatives.
Background: Vision and Planning
The genesis of this groundbreaking project can be traced back to the Prime Minister’s announcement in his 2020 Independence Day Speech. He envisioned the establishment of a massive 7.5 GW Solar Park in Ladakh. Following meticulous field surveys, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) devised a comprehensive plan. This blueprint not only envisages the creation of 13 GW renewable energy generation capacity but also incorporates a sophisticated 12 GWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Pang, Ladakh. To effectively harness this substantial power output, the construction of an inter-state transmission infrastructure became imperative.
About the Project: Key Details
- The project is slated for completion by the fiscal year 2029-30.
- Central Financial Assistance (CFA) amounting to 40 percent of the project cost has been earmarked.
- Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) is entrusted with the responsibility of implementing the project.
- The transmission line will traverse through Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, culminating in Kaithal, Haryana, where it will be seamlessly integrated into the National Grid.
- Notably, this initiative supplements the ongoing Intra-State Transmission System Green Energy Corridor Phase-II (InSTS GEC-II) in states like Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh.
Significance: Catalyzing Growth and Sustainability
The implications of this project are far-reaching and pivotal for India’s energy landscape:
- Contributing to 500 GW Target: The Ladakh project aligns seamlessly with India’s commitment to achieving 500 GW of installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuels by 2030, marking a significant stride toward a sustainable energy future.
- Enhancing Energy Security: By promoting long-term energy security, the project fortifies India’s resilience against energy-related challenges, ensuring a stable and secure power supply for the nation.
- Economic Opportunities: A byproduct of this monumental initiative is the generation of substantial employment opportunities. Both skilled and unskilled individuals will find openings in the power sector and related fields, particularly in the Ladakh region. This infusion of jobs promises to uplift local economies and enhance livelihoods.
- Eco-Friendly Growth: As a beacon of ecologically sustainable growth, the project plays a pivotal role in reducing the country’s carbon footprint. By harnessing renewable energy on a large scale, India can usher in a future marked by cleaner, greener energy practices.
Important Points:
- Background: Vision and Planning:
- Prime Minister announced 7.5 GW Solar Park in Ladakh during Independence Day Speech in 2020.
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) planned 13 GW renewable energy generation capacity and 12 GWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Pang, Ladakh.
- Inter-state transmission infrastructure needed for efficient power evacuation.
- About the Project: Key Details:
- Project targeted for completion by FY 2029-30.
- Central Financial Assistance (CFA) at 40% of project cost.
- Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) responsible for implementation.
- Transmission line passes through Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, integrated with National Grid in Kaithal, Haryana.
- Supplementary to Intra-State Transmission System Green Energy Corridor Phase-II (InSTS GEC-II) in various states.
- Significance: Catalyzing Growth and Sustainability:
- Contributes to India’s goal of achieving 500 GW installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuels by 2030.
- Enhances long-term energy security for the nation.
- Generates significant employment opportunities, benefiting both skilled and unskilled workers, especially in Ladakh.
- Promotes ecologically sustainable growth by reducing the country’s carbon footprint.
Why In News
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the ambitious Green Energy Corridor (GEC) Phase-II – Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) for a groundbreaking 13 GW Renewable Energy Project in Ladakh, emphasizing the government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and economic growth.
MCQs about Green Energy Corridor Phase-II
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What is the main objective of the Green Energy Corridor Phase-II project in Ladakh?
A. Establishing 7.5 GW Solar Park
B. Implementing 13 GW Renewable Energy Project
C. Developing Energy Storage Systems
D. Creating Intra-State Transmission System
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Which organization is responsible for implementing the Green Energy Corridor Phase-II project?
A. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
B. National Grid Corporation of India
C. Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID)
D. Ladakh Renewable Energy Authority
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How does the project contribute to employment opportunities?
A. Skilled workers in Ladakh
B. Unskilled workers in Punjab
C. Skilled and unskilled workers in power-related sectors, especially in Ladakh
D. Unskilled workers in Rajasthan
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What is the significance of the Green Energy Corridor Phase-II project for India’s energy goals?
A. Achieving 1 GW of installed electricity capacity
B. Reducing carbon footprint in Ladakh
C. Enhancing long-term energy security and contributing to the 500 GW target from non-fossil fuels by 2030
D. Focusing on fossil fuel-based energy production
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