Guwahati, Jan 12 (KNN) With the aim to develop a battery energy storage system (BESS) with the capacity of up to 250 MW/500 MWh, the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) has inked an MoU with ONGC Tripura Power Company Limited (OTPC).

As per reports, the projects would be developed with an estimated investment of Rs 2,000 crore.

The BESS project is expected to help Assam in improving power availability during peak load hours, improving integration of renewable energy generation with the electricity grid and enhancing grid reliability.

“OTPC, a reliable energy supplier for Assam since 2014, is keen to be partner of Assam in its transition towards decarbonized energy mix. The energy storage project will bring in multiple avenues of employment, help boost local businesses, improved utilization of green energy, carbon emission reduction in Assam," said Sanil C. Namboodiripad, Managing Director, OTPC.

Addressing the MoU signing ceremony, Nandita Gorlosa, minister of power, government of Assam pointed out that the development would fulfil the vision of making the state a leader in green energy transition.

Rakesh Kumar, MD, APDCL said that as the state is implementing significant solar energy capacity and battery energy storage project is key for successful integration of upcoming solar power projects.

OTPC owns and operates a 726 MW gas based combined cycle power plant which caters to 25 per cent of energy demand of all seven north eastern states. As a strategic & reliable energy partner, OTPC plans to play a vital role in clean energy transition of the nation by setting up energy storage systems on pan India basis for better integration of green energy with existing electric power system, the company statement said.

The focus on battery energy storage systems comes at a time when the Centre has set ambitious transition goals. India aims to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and net zero carbon emission by 2070.

With the exponential growth of renewable energy, battery storage systems would be key for storing power for peak requirement periods and also maintaining grid stability.  (KNN Bureau)