Andhra Pradesh Releases New Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy

The Government of Andhra Pradesh has set a target to achieve 18,000 MW of renewable energy capacity by the year 2021-22.

Keen to harness the huge solar and wind potential of Andhra Pradesh, the state has launched its new ‘Andhra Pradesh Wind-Solar Hybrid Power Policy – 2018’.

The Government of Andhra Pradesh has set a target to achieve 18,000 MW of renewable energy capacity by the year 2021-22, which is 10% of the national target.

This policy shall remain applicable for a period of five (5) years from the date of issuance and/ or shall remain in force till such time a new policy is issued or this policy is withdrawn, modified or superseded by the Government.

The Wind Solar Hybrid Projects that are commissioned during the operative period shall be eligible for the incentives declared under this policy, for a period of 10 years from the date of commissioning.

Under the category of wind-solar hybrid power plants, Wind turbine generators and Solar PV systems will be configured to operate at the same point of grid connection. There can be different approaches towards integrating wind and solar depending upon the size of each of the source integrated and the technology type.

The objective of this policy as stated in the order are: .

• To provide a framework for promotion of large-grid connected wind-solar PV systems for optimal and efficient utilization of transmission infrastructure and land, reducing the variability in renewable power generation and thus achieving better grid stability.
• Optimal utilization of transmission infrastructure being built by State Utility to evacuate renewable power.
• Policy aims to encourage new technologies, methods and way-outs involving combined operation of wind and solar PV plants, and other emerging technologies like energy storage systems.
• Target to procure the Contracted capacity of 5,000 MW at desired CUF under this policy in next 5 years or till such time a new policy is issued, as per power and energy requirements including time/season of procurement of distribution companies.