India's top electricity generator to build mega solar park

New Delhi

INDIA'S NTPC Ltd plans to set up a five-gigawatt solar park in the western state of Gujarat, which would be the biggest in the country, as the top electricity generator shifts towards cleaner energy.

A site has been identified for the project, which is expected to cost as much as 250 billion rupees (S$4.8 billion) and begin operations by 2024, according to a company official, who asked not to be named as the plan isn't public yet. The company may also invite bids from developers to set up projects in the park.

The plan is part of the NTPC's aim to build 32 gigawatts of renewable capacity by 2032 and reduce the share of fossil fuels in its energy mix to 70 per cent from about 96 per cent now. Government regulations to cap emissions from coal-fired power plants, which increase the costs of building such projects, have also prompted the New Delhi-based company to turn to green energy for growth.

In addition, the generator is considering building a new 500-megawatt hydropower project in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, where it already operates one such plant, according to the official. BLOOMBERG