The Adani Group has secured a significant contract to supply a total of 6,600 megawatts (MW) of power to the state of Maharashtra. This power supply combines both renewable energy from solar power and conventional energy from thermal power plants, aiming to meet the state’s growing electricity demands.
Key Highlights
Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL)
- Agreement with MSEDCL: AGEL will enter into a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL).
- Supply of Solar Power: AGEL will supply 5,000 MW of solar energy.
- Source of Solar Power: The electricity will come from the world’s largest renewable energy park being developed at Khavda in the Kutch district of Gujarat.
- Tariff Details: The solar power is priced at a flat rate of ₹2.70 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for a duration of 25 years.
- Project Timeline: The solar projects will be connected to the Inter State Transmission System and developed over the next three years after signing the PPA.
Adani Power Limited (APL)
- Agreement with MSEDCL: APL will sign a long-term Power Supply Agreement (PSA) with MSEDCL.
- Supply of Thermal Power: APL will provide 1,496 MW of electricity from a new 1,600 MW ultra-supercritical thermal power plant.
- Project Specifications:
- The plant will consist of two units, each of 800 MW.
- It will use Ultra Supercritical technology for higher efficiency.
- Fuel Sourcing: Coal will be sourced under the SHAKTI Policy, which allocates coal linkages to power producers.
- Project Timeline:
- Unit 1 (800 MW) will start supplying power in three and a half years after the appointed date.
- Unit 2 (800 MW) will commence operations in four years.
Competitive Bidding Process
- The combined capacity of 6,600 MW was awarded through a competitive bidding process initiated by MSEDCL.
- The tender sought procurement of 1,600 MW of thermal power and 5,000 MW of solar power.
- Adani Power Limited was permitted to bid for both thermal and solar capacities, with the solar power to be supplied by its group company, AGEL.
- This strategic collaboration leverages APL’s strength in thermal power and AGEL’s expertise in renewable energy.
Statements from Adani Group
Sagar Adani, Executive Director of Adani Green Energy, commented:
“Our goal is to accelerate India’s clean energy transition. This is a crucial step towards the country’s energy independence and building a sustainable future. Adani Green is well-positioned to achieve the 50 GW target with secured resource-rich sites in strategic locations, a mix of renewables and storage solutions, a robust supply chain, and clear evacuation plans.”
Significance of the Deal
- Boost to Renewable Energy: The supply of 5,000 MW of solar power aligns with India’s focus on increasing renewable energy in its power mix.
- Energy Security for Maharashtra: The addition of both solar and thermal power will help Maharashtra meet its increasing electricity needs reliably.
- Economic Growth: Development of these large-scale projects is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic activity in the regions involved.
Project Development Details
- Solar Projects:
- To be developed over three years.
- Will utilize advanced solar technologies.
- Connected to the national grid via the Inter State Transmission System.
- Thermal Power Plant:
- Developed on a Design, Build, Finance, Own, and Operate (DBFOO) basis.
- Employs ultra-supercritical technology for better efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional coal plants.
About the SHAKTI Policy
SHAKTI stands for Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala (Coal) Transparently in India. It aims to provide transparent coal linkages to power producers, ensuring a steady fuel supply for thermal power plants.