Analysis of the solar pumping programs being rolled out across five states backs claim switching irrigation systems to PV could give the nation a huge leg-up towards its renewable energy ambition.

Central government has thrown down the gauntlet to the nation’s largest motorbike and scooter manufacturers after they resisted a proposal to ban non-electric sales from 2025 onwards.

The state is hoping for 10.7 GW of renewable energy generation capacity by 2022 and rooftop solar is set to play a big role.

The unqualified success of the Aditya solar passenger ferry, which took to the water in 2017, has prompted the water transport body to make plans for a more luxurious form of transport which is due for launch within four months.

The reference capital cost for developing solar projects in Karnataka has risen this year despite continuing falls in component prices.

The success of the e-bike cycling tours – which operate out of recycled shipping container ‘e hubs’ – looks set to be replicated in four more states in short order.

Three dual renewable energy generation projects are up for grabs with the state owned railway management company having set a tariff ceiling of Rs2.70/kWh for projects which will be dominated by wind capacity.

Mining company Neometals and Manikaran Power have started a jointly funded study into the feasibility of establishing India’s first lithium refinery, which would process ore from the Mount Marion mine in Western Australia.

The developer’s Gujarat business will supply power for Rs2.69 under a 25-year PPA after winning a tender conducted by the Solar Energy Corporation of India.

A new three-man panel will adjudicate in disputes between project developers, national solar body SECI and energy giant NTPC. The board has been established by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.