IOC eyes wind projects in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu

IOC has forwarded a proposal for setting up wind power projects in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu at a combined capacity of 73.8 MW.

As per the proposal, IOC will to set up a 48.3 MW capacity wind energy project in Andhra Pradesh, at a cost of Rs 264 crore. The wind plant will be installed and operated by Suzlon Energy Limited.

In addition, the company will also set up a 25.5 MW wind power project in Tamil Nadu, at a cost of Rs 151 crore. The plant will be installed and operated by Leitner Shriram Manufacturing Limited.

These projects are planned to be completed in a period of five to eight months from the date of award of contract.

Indian Oil Corporation recently made a detailed presentation before its board of directors on the urgent need to venture into wind power.  It was stated that the growing requirement of Renewable Purchase Obligation -- the minimum amount of energy to purchased in order to meet the requirement --needs to be met urgently, either through generating renewable energy or REC or by purchasing RECs.

The committee was also informed that good windy sites are diminishing and therefore, it would be prudent to take up wind power projects now rather than deferring it to a later date.