What needs to be understood here is that achieving such humongous proportions of capacity expansion is no mean feat. It is true that on the planning side, real world factors need to be accounted for in a more judicious way, and that clearances for new projects at the federal and state levels need to be necessarily expedited. But the situation’s less grim than it really seems. On the conventional generation side, ultra mega power projects are headed in a slow but sure direction to provide a big solution to the country’s ever escalating power needs. The cover story in this issue demystifies the confusion that seems to surround our understanding of the fate of these massive projects. With a policy thrust from the government, and aided by clearly charted business strategies by power companies implementing these projects, UMPPs might soon have the answer to a lot of problems. There is definitely a call for patience here.

• UMPPs might soon have the answer to a lot of problems

• The clear refrain seems to be in favor of CSP

Our renewable section in this issue starts with a technical tour that makes a powerful case for concentrated solar power (CSP). While numerous solar thermal technologies are being tested globally, the clear refrain seems to be in favor of CSP. In view of the government’s solar mission, photovoltaics may not provide the necessary impetus for the growth of the sector. This is where CSP would have a key role to play.

Our regular sections continue.
Wish you all a happy read.


Saptarshi R Dutta
Editor