Govt to auction mega hydropower projects
India is planning to offer new hyower projects with all approvals and land-use rights in a bid to mitigate risks and attract investors. The plan is similar to the Ultra Mega Power Projects or UMPP model that are in vogue for thermal power projects. India is trying to make hyower projects attractive as part of its commitment at the latest Paris climate conference to cut carbon emissions by 30-35% by 2030. “We are looking at the possibility of UMPP-style hyower projects that investors will find attractive,” power secretary P.K. Pujari said. The government believes that it is essential to have a model that addresses the risks involved in large, capital intensive and resource-uncertain hyower projects. At present, these account for only 15% of .....