Cabinet gives nod to 25 solar parks of 500MW & key amendments in Electricity Act

Cabinet has given nod to an ambitious 25 solar parks of 500MW proposal will help India become a global leader in solar generation.  These 25 solar parks will add in total 20,000 megawatts (MW) solar power after implemented.
Government will provide budgetary grant of Rs 4,050 crore to implement it by 2019. These projects will be also provided with statutory and other clearances for speedy completion.
The solar parks will be developed in collaboration with states and their agencies.  It will be generally developed in remote areas where land is inexpensive.
Cabinet also has cleared setting up of 300 MW of solar capacity projects in the defence establishments and central police organisations using equipment built by Indian manufacturers.

Amendments to the Electricity Act

The Cabinet has cleared amendments to the Electricity Act to bring in more reforms and increase competition.
These amendments pave the way for the

• Much-needed further reforms in the power sector.
• Promote competition, efficiency in operations and improvement in quality of supply of electricity in the country, resulting in capacity addition and ultimate benefit to the consumers.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2014