DVC to Invest Rs 20,000 Crore in Solar Energy Projects by 2030

Historical Context: The Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) was established in 1948 as a multipurpose river valley project, modeled after the Tennessee Valley Authority in the United States. Its primary objectives were flood control, irrigation, and power generation in the Damodar River basin, which spans the Indian states of West Bengal and Jharkhand. Over the decades, DVC has played a crucial role in regional development and industrialization.

Current Developments: The Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) has announced a significant investment plan to boost its solar energy capacity. By 2030, DVC aims to invest Rs 20,000 crore to install nearly 4,000 MW of solar power. This initiative is part of a broader vision to invest Rs 50,000-60,000 crore to enhance its thermal, pump storage power plants, and solar energy capabilities.

Key Highlights:

• Investment and Capacity Expansion: DVC plans to add nearly 10,000 MW in thermal and green energy, increasing its total installed capacity to approximately 16,700 MW by 2030. Currently, DVC has an installed capacity of 6,700 MW, with 6,540 MW being thermal.
• Sustainable Growth: DVC is focusing on a balanced mix of thermal and renewable energy to meet the growing power demand in northern, southern, and western India. This approach aims to keep power costs affordable.
• Solar Projects: The corporation currently has only 14 MW of installed solar capacity but is working on a 348 MW project in collaboration with NTPC. Additionally, a 250 MW/hour battery storage capacity is under consideration.
• Coal Supply and Mining: DVC has been exempted from coal import due to its proximity to coal mines. The corporation plans to increase its captive coal mining from the Tubed block in Jharkhand, aiming to ramp up production to six million tonnes annually. The maximum potential production could reach nine million tonnes.
• Legal and Financial Aspects: DVC faces legal hurdles in bidding for new coal blocks due to a legacy case involving a past joint venture with Bengal Emta Coal Mines. The corporation is also working on clearing old dues from Jharkhand, which have reduced to about Rs 1,000 crore.
• Pump Storage Facilities: DVC plans to install two pump storage facilities in Logu Pahar, Jharkhand (1,500 MW), and Panchet, West Bengal (1,000 MW). The Panchet project is proposed to be a joint venture with the West Bengal government.

Summary in Bullet Points:

• DVC to invest Rs 20,000 crore in solar energy projects by 2030.
• Total planned investment of Rs 50,000-60,000 crore to enhance thermal, pump storage, and solar energy.
• Target to add nearly 10,000 MW in thermal and green energy, increasing total capacity to 16,700 MW.
• Current installed capacity: 6,700 MW (6,540 MW thermal).
• Focus on sustainable growth with a mix of thermal and renewable energy.
• Ongoing 348 MW solar project with NTPC and a proposed 250 MW/hour battery storage.
• Plans to ramp up captive coal mining in Jharkhand to six million tonnes annually.
• Legal hurdles prevent bidding for new coal blocks due to a legacy case.
• Two new pump storage facilities planned in Jharkhand and West Bengal.
• Efforts to clear old dues from Jharkhand, reduced to Rs 1,000 crore.

This comprehensive plan by DVC reflects its commitment to sustainable energy development and regional growth, aligning with India’s broader energy goals.