Green think tank revived in Delhi to tap solar power

Delhi/NCR
The union government’s elaborate agenda for renewable energy has led Delhi government to make the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Management Centre—which will act as a ‘think tank’ for solar energy projects in Delhi—more active.

EERM was earlier under the environment department and not very active in delivering renewable energy projects. It has now been moved to the power department with the objective of analyzing how building rooftops can be used to maximize solar energy generation. It has about four to five environmental engineers and renewable energy experts, and will act as the nodal agency coordinating matters between the ministry of new and renewable energy and the Delhi government.

“Since the union government’s focus is on solar power, it was decided that EERM will be moved under the power department who have better expertise to propose solar projects that can be implemented successfully in Delhi,” said a senior official from the environment department. Environment secretary Sanjiv Kumar was heading the body before it was moved.

EERM is currently working on a number of solar energy projects that can be implemented in Delhi. “It is looking at various models adopted in other states, especially in Gujarat. It is a priority because the prime minister himself takes interest in these projects,” said an official from the power department. It is even exploring the feasibility of installing rooftop projects on abandoned thermal power plants in the city.

EERM is currently assessing the RESCO model and the CAPEX model for implementation and maintenance of these projects. RESCOS are renewable energy service companies that are expected to operate on a model wherein they will purchase the equipment (solar panels and collectors) using long term funds, generate power, distribute it and collect revenues from their customers. The maintenance and repair work is also done by RESCOS. CAPEX is when the government makes capital expenditure to acquire equipment and set it up. “We are looking at certain schools, hospitals, buildings and even rooftops of power plants to start the projects. There will be several projects under NDMC, too. EERM is working on them,” he added.

 

Source:http://content.magicbricks.com/industry-news/delhi-ncr-real-estate-news/green-think-tank-revived-in-delhi-to-tap-solar-power/75443.html