“National Solar-Wind Hybrid Policy: A Game-Changer for India’s Renewable Energy Goals”

India has set an ambitious target of achieving 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by the year 2022. To achieve this target, the government has introduced several policies and initiatives to promote the use of renewable energy in the country. One such policy is the National Solar-Wind Hybrid Policy, which was launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in 2018. In this article, we will discuss the key features of this policy and how it is helping India to achieve its renewable energy targets.

The National Solar-Wind Hybrid Policy aims to promote the development of large-scale grid-connected solar-wind hybrid projects in the country. The policy allows developers to install wind and solar power generating systems at the same location, and the power generated from both sources is then fed into the grid. Here are some of the key features of the policy:

1. Hybrid projects can be developed on a Build-Own-Operate (BOO) basis or can be developed through competitive bidding.
2. The policy allows for the integration of energy storage systems such as batteries to ensure reliable power supply.
3. The policy encourages the use of advanced technologies such as forecasting tools and artificial intelligence to enhance the efficiency of the hybrid projects.
4. The policy provides for the waiver of inter-state transmission charges and losses for the sale of power from hybrid projects.
5. The policy also allows for the sale of surplus power generated from hybrid projects to third parties, subject to the payment of wheeling and banking charges.

The National Solar-Wind Hybrid Policy has several benefits for the renewable energy sector in India. Firstly, it allows for the integration of two renewable energy sources, solar and wind, to provide a more stable and reliable power supply. This helps to address the issue of intermittency associated with renewable energy sources, which can impact grid stability. Secondly, the policy allows for the development of large-scale hybrid projects, which can achieve economies of scale and reduce the cost of electricity generation. Thirdly, the policy encourages the use of advanced technologies, which can enhance the efficiency and performance of the hybrid projects.

The National Solar-Wind Hybrid Policy has received a positive response from the industry, and several developers have shown interest in developing hybrid projects in the country. The policy is also aligned with India’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development.

In conclusion, the National Solar-Wind Hybrid Policy is an important initiative by the Indian government to promote the use of renewable energy in the country. The policy allows for the integration of two renewable energy sources, solar and wind, and encourages the use of advanced technologies to enhance the efficiency of the hybrid projects. The policy has several benefits for the renewable energy sector in India, including improved grid stability, reduced cost of electricity generation, and alignment with the country’s commitment to sustainable development.