Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala (Coal) Transparently in India (SHAKTI), 2017
All the Power Generating companies are eligible for coal linkage under SHAKTI Policy, subject to terms and conditions mentioned in the Policy. The SHAKTI Policy has various mechanisms of coal allocation to the power plants in a transparent manner.
India Outperforms Global Average in Energy Intensity Improvement
India has demonstrated commendable progress in energy conservation, outperforming the global average in recent years. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), India’s energy intensity improved by 2.5% between 2010 and 2019, surpassing the global average of 2%. A press release on this progress was issued on December 10, 2024.
Public Hearing on Electricity Transmission Charges and Losses Rescheduled for January 3rd
The public hearing previously scheduled for December 11, 2024, will now be held on Friday, January 3, 2025, at 10:30 AM. The hearing will be conducted online via video conferencing. The CERC will share the Microsoft Teams link for the public hearing with registered participants. The deadline to register for the hearing is January 1, 2025.
India Introduces New Regulations for Solar PV Cell Manufacturing
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced a new amendment to the Approved Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) order, which will mandate the use of domestically manufactured solar PV cells in solar modules. The government will introduce a separate list for solar PV cells, similar to the existing list for solar PV modules.
PM Surya Ghar: A Solar Revolution in India
The government offers a generous subsidy of up to 40% to households, making rooftop solar installations more affordable. Additionally, collateral-free loans at low-interest rates are available to facilitate the adoption of solar power. The government has also launched the “Model Solar Village” initiative, aiming to establish one such village in each district. These villages will serve as examples of sustainable energy practices and community empowerment.
Government Pushes for Faster Broadband Expansion with OPGW Fiber Leasing
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has urged the Ministry of Power (MoP) to facilitate broadband expansion by allowing the leasing of fibers on Optical Ground Wires (OPGW) installed by Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PowerGrid). This move aims to enhance connectivity, particularly in rural and remote areas.
CERC Notifies Commencement of Clause 8 of DSM Regulations 2024
The stipulation in DSM Regulations regarding charges for deviation by way of injection of infirm power will now come into effect on December 23, 2024. Until December 22, 2024, CERC’s Order dated February 6, 2023, on charges for deviation for injection of scheduled inform power will remain in operation.
Ministry of Power Proposes Amendments to EV Charging Infrastructure Guidelines
These amendments aim to streamline the process of setting up EV charging stations and promote the widespread adoption of electric vehicles in India. In this regard, requisite comments, if any, on the aforesaid amendment is requested to be furnished to this Ministry at saket-upsc@gov.in and vikas.dhirwan@gov.in within three weeks.
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Updates List of Approved Solar PV Modules
The update emphasizes minimum module efficiency requirements for enlistment. Solar PV modules must comply with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and meet the specified efficiency thresholds.
Central Government clarifies objectives of SHAKTI Yojana
New coal linkages for the coal produced by CIL and SCCL to the power sector are allocated under the SHAKTI Policy. This Policy balances the interests of CIL, SCCL as well as the power producers as it has various mechanisms for coal allocation, which includes auction mechanism (premium on the notified price of coal), and these auctions are conducted periodically by the coal companies.
