Odisha is emerging as a new hope in the realm of solar energy through its focus on Solar Open Access. Large industries in Odisha are mandated to fulfil Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPO), creating a ripe environment for the growth of solar open-access solutions.

However, the journey is not without its challenges, including policy ambiguities, land availability concerns, and limitations in transmission infrastructure.

The Power Landscape of Odisha

As of Q3 2023, Odisha boasted a total installed power capacity of 7.9 GW. Dominated by thermal power, which constitutes approximately 64% of the state's power mix, Odisha is now focusing on renewable energy sources, which comprise the remaining 36%. Large hydroelectric projects contribute significantly, accounting for around 76% of the state's renewable capacity.

Solar Open Access Gains Traction

According to the Q3 2023 Solar Open Access Market Report, Odisha significantly increased its open-access solar power capacity by 50 MW. The cumulative of businesses reached approximately 100 MW by September 2023 with motivation from government incentives and joining hands with private players such as AMPIN Energy Transition. 

The entire large-scale solar capacity added in Q3 2023 in Odisha came under the open access model, constituting around 17% of the state's total large-scale solar capacity.

Ideal Regions and Project Pipeline

It was earlier highlighted TP Western Odisha Distribution (TPWODL) is an ideal region for open-access solar projects. Western Odisha, an industrial hub with sectors such as steel, agrotech, and mining, offers a conducive environment for solar initiatives. 

At the end of Q3 2023, Odisha boasted a pipeline of 665.2 MW of open-access solar projects, indicating a growing interest and commitment to solar energy adoption.

Challenges Hindering the Shine

Despite promising developments, Odisha faces challenges that need to be addressed to successfully implement solar open-access solutions.

1. Ambiguity of Banking Provisions: The lack of clarity in energy banking provisions poses a hurdle. Clear and consistent policies are crucial for businesses confidently investing in solar open-access projects. Addressing this ambiguity will enhance investor confidence and accelerate the adoption of solar energy.
2. Land Availability Concerns: Securing suitable land for solar projects is another obstacle. As the demand for land increases, there is a need for proactive measures such as identifying and allocating land parcels for solar installations. Collaborative efforts between the government and private stakeholders can streamline this process, ensuring a smoother transition to solar open access.
3. In-House Projects vs. Third-Party Developers: The reduced demand for third-party developers poses a challenge, as large industries tend to develop renewable energy projects in-house. Encouraging collaboration and providing incentives for external developers can maximise the utilisation of solar open access potential.
4. Limited Transmission Capacity and Connectivity: The existing limitations in transmission infrastructure hinder the effective integration of solar power into the grid. Investments in expanding and strengthening transmission networks are imperative to unlock the full potential of solar energy in Odisha. Collaboration with energy infrastructure developers can expedite these critical developments.

Partnering with AMPIN: Empowering Businesses in Odisha's Solar Open Access Journey

As Odisha takes bold steps towards embracing solar open access, the journey is about overcoming challenges and aligning with forward-thinking solutions. When it comes to advanced solar open-access projects, AMPIN Energy Transition emerges as India's premier partner for businesses looking to step confidently towards a greener energy future. 

Odisha's promising developments and challenges underscore the need for reliable and innovative partners like AMPIN. By choosing AMPIN Energy Transition, businesses in Odisha are navigating through policy ambiguities, secure suitable land for solar projects, and seamlessly integrate solar power into the grid. AMPIN has installed an onsite (rooftop) solar project of 2.3MWp in Odisha supplying solar power to Nuvoco’s cement grinding facility and is coming up with a solar park of about 105MWp in Odisha and this will enhance our foothold in the state. 

Businesses can confidently embrace the solar open access journey, knowing that AMPIN stands as their trusted ally in India's best renewable energy transition. In addition to this, AMPIN is establishing a state-of-the-art  integrated solar module and cell manufacturing gigafactory in the state to propel the renewable energy ecosystem in the state. Together, Odisha and AMPIN are set to redefine the narrative, proving that sustainable energy is a shared commitment towards a cleaner and more prosperous future.