India Proposes Solar Park In Sri Lanka

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India is looking to expand its energy partnership with its southern neighbor Sri Lanka and to venture into the development of large-scale renewable energy projects in the island nation.

According to media reports, India’s largest power generation company, NTPC Limited, proposed setting up a solar park in Sri Lanka. The company had earlier proposed to set up a coal-based power plant in the country. Plans for that power plant were squashed following environmental concerns.

Media reports did not share any details of the proposed solar park as both the NTPC or the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy refused to share any more details.

India has been looking to strengthen energy ties with Sri Lanka. Oil and gas companies have been looking to set up oil and natural gas terminals for some years. The Indian government has also been considering setting up an electric interconnection between the two countries. The state of Tamil Nadu, closest to Sri Lanka, has surplus wind power during the monsoon season and can export it to the island country.

Sri Lanka has set a target renewable energy share of 80% in its power generation mix. At present, the country is dependent on coal and oil to generate 80% of its power. This leaves it dependent on imports. Around 15% of the power is from hydro resources and is dependent on rains. The country has initiated a 100-megawatt wind energy project with the help of Asian Development Bank.

Several Indian public sector companies are looking to collaborate with other countries and help set up solar power projects. NTPC recently secured a project management consulting contract in Mali. The company will help the African country set up a 500-megawatt solar PV project.

Another company, EESL, announced plans to launch a global tender for installation of solar-powered irrigation pumps. These pumps will be installed in member countries of the International Solar Alliance.