By PTI
The government is re-evaluating its plan to float tenders for 1 GW wind energy projects, according to a senior official.
“Tenders for 1 GW of wind energy projects are ready, but we are re-evaluating whether to go or not,” the official said.
Discussions with stakeholders also indicate that there may not be the same interest as earlier in tenders for these projects.
It has been observed that steel prices have risen in recent years, affecting the interest of the bidders, the official explained.
Steel is a critical material for offshore and onshore wind energy projects, used primarily in towers.
The official said the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has engaged with the World Bank and various think tanks “to see what kind of road map is needed to promote investments in the wind sector”.
The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, also shared that MNRE is working on a new scheme to promote small hydro projects in the country.
The policy for 25 MW hydro projects is expected to be launched soon, he said.
He also said that the government may consider financial assistance for the manufacturing of ingots and wafers, which are a critical component in solar modules.
