India Backs Energy Storage with ₹5,400 Crore VGF
India is strengthening its energy storage ecosystem through ₹5,400 crore in Viability Gap Funding (VGF) aimed at supporting the development of 30 GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The government has also provided a 100% waiver of Inter-State Transmission System charges for eligible storage projects, alongside simplified approvals for pumped storage. The CEA has advised solar developers to consider storage equivalent to at least 10% of installed solar capacity with a minimum two-hour duration. Together, the measures aim to improve project viability, grid flexibility and renewable energy integration.
India’s Solar Capacity Surpasses 164 GW
India’s installed solar PV capacity reached 164.59 GW by the end of July 2026, reinforcing solar’s position as a major driver of the country’s renewable energy expansion. Around 2.44 GW was installed during July, taking additions during the first seven months of 2026 to approximately 28.78 GW. Ground-mounted solar accounts for 122.57 GW, while grid-connected rooftop solar has reached 30.74 GW. Hybrid projects contribute 4.77 GW and off-grid solar 6.51 GW. Continued project execution could make 2026 one of India’s strongest years for solar capacity additions.
NTPC Mining Plans 50 MWp Solar at Coal Mines
NTPC Mining Limited has invited an Expression of Interest for developing 50 MWp of ground-mounted solar capacity across coal mining locations in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. Two 25 MWp DC projects are planned at the Pakribarwadih mine in Jharkhand and Talaipalli mine in Chhattisgarh under the RESCO model. The selected developer will finance, build, own, operate and maintain the projects for 25 years, while NTPC Mining will procure the electricity for captive consumption. The initiative is designed to lower the carbon footprint of mining operations while expanding clean energy use at industrial sites.
NVVN Offers NTPC Solar Power at ₹3.00–3.65/kWh
NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited (NVVN) has invited large electricity consumers seeking at least 5 MW of solar power to express interest in procuring electricity from operational NTPC solar plants. The indicative ex-bus price ranges between ₹3.00 and ₹3.65/kWh. Eligible participants include C&I consumers, DISCOMs, data centres, railways, metros, ports, airports and other open-access buyers. Supply arrangements could be structured on short-, medium- or long-term bases, while applicable projects may also benefit from ISTS charge waivers ranging between 75% and 100%, depending on relevant conditions.
CEA Proposes New 2026 Grid Connectivity Standards
The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has proposed new Technical Standards for Connectivity to the Grid Regulations, 2026, replacing the existing 2007 framework. The draft applies to entities connecting at 33 kV and above, including generators, energy storage systems, bulk consumers, transmission entities and HVDC systems. Key provisions cover fault ride-through, reactive power, cybersecurity and power quality requirements. Significantly, standalone BESS projects of 50 MW and above would need Black Start capability, while Grid Forming controls are also addressed. Stakeholders can submit comments and objections until September 2, 2026.
MNRE Approves ₹258.83 Crore Renewable Energy HRD Programme
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has approved a ₹258.83 crore Human Resource Development programme aimed at strengthening India’s renewable energy workforce. The initiative comes as rapid expansion across solar, wind, storage and other clean-energy technologies creates growing demand for specialised technical and professional capabilities. By focusing on human-resource development, the programme is expected to support the skilled workforce required for India’s expanding renewable energy ecosystem. The initiative complements the country’s wider capacity-building efforts as renewable deployment accelerates and the industry requires greater expertise across project development, installation, operations, technology and associated clean-energy activities.
NLC India Secures IND AAA Rating for ₹1,102 Crore Facilities
NLC India Limited has secured a new IND AAA/Stable rating from India Ratings & Research for bank facilities worth ₹1,102 crore, highlighting its strong credit profile and capacity to meet financial obligations. India Ratings also reaffirmed IND AAA/Stable for ₹2,500 crore of non-convertible debentures, while the company’s ₹6,000 crore commercial paper programme retained its IND A1+ rating. Another ₹2,923 crore of bank facilities continues to carry IND AAA/Stable/IND A1+ ratings. The ratings reinforce NLC India’s financial standing as it continues its operations and pursues future business and development requirements.
Discover more from SolarQuarter
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
