8NOVEMBER 2024GEAPP TO BUILD INDIA'S FIRST GREEN ENERGY CORRIDORADB SANCTIONS LOAN FOR WEST BENGAL TO ENSURE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTIONGreen Corridor, Bundelkhand, Green Energy, Uttar PradeshThe Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) has partnered with the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) to develop a 450-500 MW solar park along the Bundelkhand Expressway, with an estimated investment of Rs 1,800 crore. This project is notable as it represents the first initiative of its kind in India, aiming to create a green energy corridor along the 296 km expressway and serve as a model for scalable solar infrastructure in the region.Following a comprehensive feasibility study, GEAPP identified the potential for solar power installations of up to 450 MW along designated land areas of 15-20 meters on both sides of the expressway. The solar park will utilize approximately 1,700 hectares of available land and operate under a Build-Own-Operate model, with a total project tenure extendable up to 25 years from the start of commercial operations. This approach reflects a commitment to long-term economic and environmental sustainability.The project will proceed through a single-stage bidding process, where bidders will be evaluated based on their proposed revenue share with UPEIDA. An Request for Proposals (RFP) was issued by UPEIDA on October 8, inviting global bids for the initiative.The initiative is part of a broader strategy to harness the renewable energy potential of India's 6,000 km expressway network, with the Bundelkhand Solar Highway project alone expected to unlock an impressive 10 GW of renewable energy. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 241.3-million loan aimed at improving electricity distribution in West Bengal, enhancing the quality of life for residents by ensuring a reliable and sustainable power supply. This program aligns with the Indian government's Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, which focuses on strengthening the operational efficiency of power distribution companies, as highlighted by ADB Principal Energy Specialist Roka Sanda.Reliable electricity distribution is crucial for West Bengal's growth and development. The West Bengal Distribution System Strengthening Program will benefit 8.96 million consumers across seven districts in the state. Key initiatives include replacing low-tension overhead lines with aerial bundled cables, establishing separate electricity feeders for agricultural and non-agricultural users, and implementing an integrated information and operation management system to enhance power supply quality, performance monitoring, and corporate financial management.The program aims to improve the operational efficiency of the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited by building capacity in asset and financial management, promoting the adoption of renewable energy, rationalizing tariffs, and fostering gender equity and social inclusion. ADB's commitment to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific includes ongoing efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members, with 49 from the region. TOPSTORIES
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