112 mini-hydroelectric Project Proposals Scrapped.

The state government has scrapped 112 mini-hydroelectric project proposals over environmental concerns.

Energy Minister D K Shivakumar informed the Council recently that in all 296 such projects have been delayed due to hurdles in getting forest and environmental clearances. Of the 495 projects allotted to private players, 87 have been implemented so far, and another 112 cancelled for violating norms, Shivakumar said. The government is keen on exploiting renewable energy, and private players are supplying power at the rate of Rs. 2 to Rs. 4.16 per unit, he said. .

The Energy Department had sent teams to check the progress of 296 mini-hydroelectric projects allotted to private companies and on finding no progress in implementing them, issued show cause notices to them, the minister said.

The government is planning to harness another 700 to 800 MW of power through hydroelctric projects, and is getting 400 MW through wind energy, he said.


THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS