India targets 2 GW solar capacity by 2013
11 Nov 2011
India's efforts at harnessing the potential of solar power have drawn much attention over the last few years, and the announcement yesterday that it would generate 2 GW (2,000 MW) of solar power by March 2013 would be seen as a further continuation of it solar thrust.
Though 2 GW hardly represents a significant proportion of the total requirement, it shows nevertheless, the impressive potential of solar power. The rapidly declining production cost of solar panels, coupled with the increasing efficiency should soon make solar power competitive with gas powered plants, according to industry experts. According to some experts, in fact, this could come about as early as 2016.
The industry on its part is projecting a $1 per MW cost level by 2020.
India is looking to take aggressive strides in the field of renewable energy, given the increasing demand for electricity in the country.
The ministry of new and renewable energy (MNRE) has plans to boost capacity to 400 MW by the 31March, 2012 end of current financial year.
According to Bharat Bhargava, director at MNRE and in-charge of solar power projects, the bidding process would conclude by the month end for 350 MW under second batch of projects of the first phase of the National Solar Mission.
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