MNRE has reportedly asked state utilities to float solar and wind energy tenders instead of depending on central utilities for meeting their renewable energy needs.
MNRE noted that most states are failing to meet their RPO targets, or the share of clean energy in their electricity purchase. ET reports against a target of 17% share as RPO during 2018-19, countrywide achievement during April-September this year has been around 10.6%.
An official from renewable energy ministry speaking to ET said “Finally, it is the state which is procuring power, so it’s better that they issue tenders on their own. States are better aware of what tariffs they can afford to purchase renewable energy.”
The official further added that states including Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have been actively issuing tenders, while most others are falling behind the RPO targets, the official said.
According to ET MNRE secretary Anand Kumar recently in a communication to state authorities said that states are not doing enough to meet their RPOs.