Industry Odisha Bureau, Sep 11: Odisha moved to expand clean energy infrastructure on Thursday. The Energy Department, GRIDCO Limited, and iFOREST hosted a Stakeholder Dialogue. The event took place at Mayfair Convention Hall.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo inaugurated the session. He highlighted small hydro projects’ environmental and developmental benefits. These projects use existing irrigation canals and water flows. They require minimal land acquisition, he noted.
Additional Chief Secretary Vishal Dev outlined the state’s strategy. Odisha is building regulatory, financial, and departmental frameworks. The goal is converting hydro potential into bankable projects. The event concluded with a Renewable Energy banking agreement signing. This sets the stage for an official action roadmap. Priorities include site selection and streamlined clearances. Community benefit-sharing will also feature prominently.
Senior officials attended the dialogue, including Principal Secretary Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma. GRIDCO Managing Director Satya Priya Rath was present. iFOREST’s Mandvi Singh also joined the discussions.
The dialogue aimed to fast-track implementation of MNRE’s scheme. This covers the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme, 2026-31. India has tapped only 5,171 MW of its potential. The estimated small hydro potential stands at 21,133 MW nationally.
The ₹2,584.60-crore national scheme targets ambitious capacity additions. It aims for 1,500 MW across roughly 200 projects. DPR preparation will receive ₹30 crore in funding. Odisha holds nearly 11% of India’s surface water resources. The state seeks to diversify its thermal-heavy power portfolio.
The State Cabinet recently approved major transmission investments. Approximately ₹16,000 crore will expand grid infrastructure statewide. Three new 765 kV networks will support integration. This will enable smooth evacuation of new hydro capacity.
