Nilesh Cabral, Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Government of Goa, launched the first “convergence project”, integrating delivery of renewable decentralised energy with energy efficient pumpsets and LED lamps, for rural homes.
The 100-mw project will be implemented by Convergence Energy Services Ltd (CESL) and will be launched through a 1-mw pilot project.
The project will be implemented on unused or degraded land across Goa, located close to substations and the point of use. CESL will also deliver the pumps and lights as part of the power purchase agreement. The total investment of Rs.450 crore will be borne by CESL and will result in a savings of Rs.2,500 crores for Goa, over the life of the project. Around 400,000 households will benefit from this project, and 140,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions will be avoided. Further, savings to the distribution company will be significant from the solarisation of these feeders, a release from EESL said.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Cabral said, “Goa has always been a pioneer in its adoption of innovative energy solutions, which can benefit our citizens. Today, we are laying the foundation for the creation of a cleaner, greener and energy secured Goa. This 1-mw pilot is part of an ambitious 100-mw decentralised solar project, which will transform our energy landscape in the years to come.
A wholly-owned subsidiary of EESL, Convergence Energy Services Ltd, a new energy company is focused on delivering clean, affordable and reliable energy. Convergence focuses on energy solutions that lie at the confluence of renewable energy, electric mobility and climate change.
According to Saurabh Kumar, Executive Vice Chairperson, EESL, “Our Convergence initiative is an effort to bring together a diverse bundle of interventions into one comprehensive solution, which can solve multiple energy sector challenges. Today’s inauguration marks the beginning of Convergence, and I firmly believe that it will enable increased energy access and better quality of life for the people of Goa.”
Featured photograph taken at foundation laying ceremony on December 19, 2020