Enbridge to Invest USD 1.2B in Wyoming Solar-BESS Project to Power Meta Platforms Data Centres

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21st May 2026

Dubai-based renewable energy company AMEA Power has officially commissioned the 120 MW Doornhoek Solar Photovoltaic project in South Africa, marking a major step forward for the country’s clean energy transition. The solar facility is located near Klerksdorp in the North West Province and has become the first project under Bid Window 6 of South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme to reach commercial operation.

The large-scale solar plant is expected to generate nearly 325 GWh of clean electricity every year. According to the company, the project will provide enough power to supply around 97,000 households while helping reduce more than 330,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. The development is expected to support South Africa’s efforts to strengthen energy security and reduce dependence on conventional fossil fuel-based power generation.

The project was developed with an investment of approximately 120 million US dollars. AMEA Power partnered with local firms Ziyanda Energy and Dzimuzwo Energy, both fully owned by African women, highlighting the project’s focus on inclusive participation and local economic empowerment. Financing for the project included 100 million US dollars in debt support from Standard Bank South Africa, along with an 8 million US dollar equity investment from the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa to support local partner participation.

The construction phase also delivered a major employment boost to the surrounding communities. At peak activity, the project created jobs for around 1,050 workers, providing income opportunities for local residents and businesses. In addition to employment generation, the company launched several community support initiatives aimed at improving education and social welfare in nearby areas.

Through its community investment programme, AMEA Power extended assistance to six local schools, four early childhood development centres, and fifteen non-profit organisations operating in the region. These initiatives were designed to create long-term social benefits alongside clean energy development.

The Doornhoek solar project is AMEA Power’s first fully operational renewable energy asset in South Africa and further strengthens the company’s growing presence across Africa’s renewable energy sector. Looking ahead, the company plans to expand further in South Africa’s North West Province through two battery energy storage projects secured under Bid Window 2 of the Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme. Together, these projects are expected to deliver more than 300 MWh of storage capacity and support grid stability as South Africa accelerates its renewable energy transition.

SolarAfrica Expands Renewable Portfolio With 315 MW Nyakallo Solar And Battery Storage Project

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21st May 2026

South African clean energy company SolarAfrica has acquired the Nyakallo utility-scale solar and battery storage project from Norsk Renewables in a move that strengthens its renewable energy presence across sub-Saharan Africa. The project is located in Limpopo province, South Africa, and is expected to support businesses looking for reliable and cost-effective alternatives to the country’s unstable power grid and increasing electricity prices.

The Nyakallo project is situated around 13 kilometers west of Lephalale near the Grootegeluk Coal Mine. The location is considered strategically important because it lies within one of Eskom’s major transmission corridors, making grid connectivity easier and more effective for large-scale power distribution. The project has already crossed several important development stages, including securing grid connection approvals, environmental permits, and initial engineering designs.

Once completed, the project is expected to generate up to 315 MW of solar power and will also include battery energy storage systems. The addition of battery storage is aimed at ensuring stable and reliable electricity supply even during periods when solar generation is lower. SolarAfrica and Norsk Renewables will continue to work together over the next year to take the project to financial close before construction activities officially begin.

According to current plans, electricity supply from the Nyakallo facility is expected to commence during the second half of 2028. The project is expected to play an important role in improving energy reliability for commercial and industrial consumers in South Africa, where power shortages and load-shedding continue to impact business operations.

SolarAfrica plans to introduce a flexible electricity purchasing model for the project. The company’s CEO, David McDonald, stated that the structure will combine large corporate customers with independent energy traders that purchase energy capacity. This system is designed to provide an alternative to traditional long-term power purchase agreements by offering more flexible energy solutions to businesses of different sizes.

The acquisition also marks a major milestone for SolarAfrica’s regional growth strategy. With the addition of Nyakallo, the company’s utility-scale renewable energy pipeline has now reached nearly 1.5 GW in advanced development stages across sub-Saharan Africa. SolarAfrica is backed by the French sustainable investment firm Mirova, which continues to support the company’s expansion in the commercial and industrial renewable energy market.

Petrobras Acquires 49.99% Stake in Lightsource bp Brazil Operations to Expand Renewable Energy Portfolio

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21st May 2026

Brazilian state-owned energy major Petrobras has completed the acquisition of a 49.99% stake in the Brazilian renewable energy operations of Lightsource bp, strengthening its presence in the country’s rapidly expanding clean energy sector.

The transaction establishes a joint venture between the two companies focused on the development and operation of renewable energy assets in Brazil, primarily utility-scale solar projects.

As part of the agreement, Petrobras gains access to a renewable energy pipeline estimated at between 1 GW and 1.5 GW, alongside operational solar assets and project development expertise from Lightsource bp.

The deal also includes participation in the Milagres solar complex located in Ceará, Brazil, which has an installed capacity of approximately 212 MWp and has been operational since 2023.

The acquisition aligns with Petrobras’ broader strategy to diversify its energy portfolio and expand investments in low-carbon businesses under its 2026–2030 business plan. The company has been gradually increasing its focus on renewable energy amid the global energy transition and rising demand for cleaner power generation.

Industry observers view the partnership as part of a wider trend among traditional oil and gas companies seeking strategic entry into renewable energy markets through joint ventures and minority stake acquisitions.

For Lightsource bp, the partnership is expected to support the acceleration of renewable project deployment in Brazil by leveraging Petrobras’ domestic market presence and infrastructure capabilities.

Brazil continues to emerge as one of Latin America’s fastest-growing renewable energy markets, supported by strong solar irradiation levels, favorable project economics, and increasing corporate demand for clean electricity.

European Bank For Reconstruction And Development Provides €70 Million Loan To Expand Large-Scale Battery Storage Projects In Europe

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21st May 2026

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is providing a €70 million loan to NGEN Energetske Rešitve, a Slovenia-based energy storage company, to support the expansion of large-scale battery energy storage infrastructure across Central and Eastern Europe. The investment is aimed at improving electricity grid stability and strengthening energy security in several European Union countries.

The financing will be used to build and operate five utility-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) located in Latvia, Poland, Romania, and Slovenia. These systems will collectively provide 302 MW of energy storage capacity. The batteries will be supplied by Tesla, a US-based company known for its advanced and widely deployed energy storage technology.

Once operational, the facilities will operate under a merchant model, meaning they will sell electricity directly into the wholesale energy market.The project includes one battery installation in Latvia, two in Poland, one in Romania, and one in Slovenia. The facilities in Latvia and Slovenia are expected to become among the largest standalone battery storage systems in their respective markets, where large-scale energy storage infrastructure is still relatively limited.Battery energy storage systems play an important role in modern electricity networks.

They help reduce the risk of power outages, improve grid stability, and support the integration of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. As more renewable energy is added to national grids, flexible storage solutions like these are becoming increasingly important for maintaining reliable electricity supply.

In addition to financing the infrastructure, the EBRD will support NGEN through technical cooperation focused on strengthening cybersecurity. This includes helping the company adopt industry-standard security practices, conducting penetration testing of industrial systems, and implementing advanced cyber-risk protection measures. These steps are intended to improve operational reliability and reduce exposure to digital threats.The project also includes a commitment to improving gender balance within NGEN’s workforce.

The company plans to increase the share of women employees from 22 per cent to 27 per cent over the next five years, supported by targeted recruitment efforts and initiatives that highlight women working in the energy sector.The transaction benefits from support under the European Union’s InvestEU programme, including a first-loss guarantee and technical assistance through the InvestEU Fund and Advisory Hub.

This support is designed to reduce investment risk and encourage more funding for sustainable infrastructure projects across Europe.NGEN Energetske Rešitve is a vertically integrated company that develops and operates battery storage systems, provides engineering, procurement, and construction services for large-scale energy storage projects, and supplies battery solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial customers.

The company uses Tesla battery technology across its projects.The EBRD is one of the key implementing partners of the EU’s InvestEU programme, which aims to mobilise hundreds of billions of euros in additional investment across Europe for sustainable development, innovation, and job creation.The EBRD remains a major institutional investor in Latvia, Poland, Romania, and Slovenia, where it continues to support energy security, private sector growth, and the transition toward cleaner and more resilient energy systems through long-term financing and technical assistance.

NTPC Green Energy Limited Invites Bids for 800 MW/3200 MWh BESS Project at Khavda Solar Park

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21st May 2026

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NTPC Green Energy Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of NTPC Limited, has issued an abridged invitation for bids for the development of a large Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project at its Khavda Solar Project in Gujarat. The company plans to develop an 800MW/3200MWh grid-connected BESS facility under a domestic competitive bidding process. The tender has been floated on a Single Stage Two Envelope basis, where bidders will first submit techno-commercial bids followed by price bids. Eligible participants will later take part in a reverse auction process.

According to the tender notice, the BESS project will be developed at the PSS-1 location of the NTPC REL Khavda Solar Project in Gujarat. The storage system capacity has been defined as the rated AC discharge capacity available at the Point of Injection (POI) at the ISTS substation. The tender document clearly states that bidders must consider auxiliary consumption during discharge operations while meeting the required output capacity.

The company intends to finance the project through its own resources or through borrowings. Detailed bidding documents and the official invitation for bids are scheduled to be made available for public viewing and download from May 25, 2026, through the official NTPC tender portals.

The selected bidder will be responsible for executing the project on a complete turnkey basis. The scope of work includes design, engineering, manufacturing, supply, transportation, installation, testing, and commissioning of the BESS system. In addition, the bidder will also be responsible for integrating the storage system with the Balance of System infrastructure, solar plants, and the power grid.

The tender outlines several strict technical and operational requirements for the project. The BESS system must be designed for a life span of 25 years while operating under a daily single-cycle charging and discharging pattern. The batteries supplied for the project must support at least 10,000 operating cycles. The system is also required to maintain a minimum monthly Round Trip Efficiency of 80%, including auxiliary consumption measured at the termination point.

Further, the selected developer must guarantee an annual system availability of 98%. The dispatchable capacity of the system should not fall below 92% during a 15-year operational period. To ensure long-term performance, the tender also includes a comprehensive 15-year Operation and Maintenance agreement along with warranty obligations and service-level commitments.

The bidder will additionally be responsible for conducting grid compliance studies and power quality analysis for the integrated system. The design must also account for standby auxiliary consumption during non-solar hours and emergency supply requirements in case of grid failure. The terminal point for the assignment has been defined up to the integration with the owner’s 33 kV pooling switchgear.

While the abridged tender document highlights major technical specifications and timelines, it does not disclose the Earnest Money Deposit or Performance Bank Guarantee amounts. These details are expected to be provided in the detailed bidding documents that will be released later this month.

European Energy Begins Construction Of Major 225.5 MW Agrivoltaic Project In Sicily, Italy

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21st May 2026

Construction is currently underway on the Vizzini agrivoltaic project in Sicily, which is set to become one of the largest of its kind in Italy. The project is being developed by European Energy and combines solar power generation with continued agricultural use of the same land. It is designed to produce renewable electricity while keeping farming activity active, rather than replacing it.

The project is located in Vizzini, Sicily, and will have a total installed capacity of 225.5 MW. Once operational, it is expected to generate around 405 GWh of electricity each year, which is enough to meet the annual consumption of more than 135,000 households. At the same time, it is projected to avoid approximately 162,090 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. The solar installation will cover an area of about 260 hectares, with operations expected to begin in 2027

.A key feature of the project is its agrivoltaic design, which allows energy production and agriculture to coexist on the same land. The solar panels are installed at a height of 1.3 metres above ground level, leaving enough space for vegetation to grow underneath and for livestock to move freely. Around 820 sheep are expected to graze across the site, supporting natural land management through solar grazing practices.

This dual-use approach ensures that the land remains productive for agriculture while also generating renewable energy. Instead of displacing farming activities, the system allows agriculture and electricity production to operate side by side. This model reflects a growing global interest in combining land use efficiency with clean energy development. European Energy has been active in Italy for more than two decades and has developed a strong pipeline of renewable energy projects in the country.

One of its earlier major developments was the Troia solar park in Puglia, which was the largest solar facility in Italy at the time of its commissioning in 2020. The Vizzini project continues this development approach and is expected to become a new benchmark for large-scale agrivoltaic installations once completed.The project has also been carefully designed to support the surrounding environment and local community.

More than 90 hectares of land within the project area will be dedicated to reforestation efforts, while an additional 25 hectares will be used for environmental mitigation, including the planting of olive trees and prickly pear plants. Another 25 hectares will be left in a natural state to preserve local biodiversity. These measures were developed through consultation with local stakeholders and authorities, and their costs were included in the project planning from the beginning

.According to European Energy, the project has been developed through close cooperation with local communities, with a focus on integrating renewable energy infrastructure into the surrounding landscape while also supporting agriculture, biodiversity, and environmental restoration.The project’s financial structure is supported by a Contract for Difference (CfD) awarded under Italy’s FER X Transitional auction scheme, which provides long-term revenue stability.

Vizzini is one of five solar projects secured by European Energy under this scheme, representing a combined capacity of 513 MW across regions including Sicily, Puglia, and Molise. Engineering, procurement, and construction activities are being carried out by European Energy in partnership with local contractors and suppliers, helping to ensure regional involvement in project delivery.

Equis Launches GreenPoint Energy Platform in Australia with 2.5 GW Renewable and Battery Storage Portfolio

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21st May 2026

Equis has launched a dedicated Australian renewable energy platform, GreenPoint Energy, bringing together a 2.5 GW portfolio of wind and battery energy storage projects across the country’s National Electricity Market (NEM).

The newly established platform will manage 12 renewable energy and storage assets located across multiple Australian states, strengthening Equis’ presence in one of the Asia-Pacific region’s fastest-growing clean energy markets. The portfolio includes utility-scale wind projects and battery energy storage systems (BESS), aimed at supporting grid reliability and accelerating renewable energy integration.

GreenPoint Energy will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Equis and will focus on the development, construction, and long-term ownership of renewable energy infrastructure assets in Australia. The launch formalizes Equis’ renewable energy operations in the country, where the company has been actively expanding its clean energy investments since 2021.

Among the major assets under the platform is the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub in Victoria, which includes a 600 MW/1.6 GWh battery energy storage system and is considered one of Australia’s largest battery storage projects. The project is expected to enhance grid flexibility and support the growing penetration of renewable energy sources into the electricity network.

The launch of GreenPoint Energy comes amid increasing investment momentum in Australia’s renewable energy sector, driven by rising electricity demand, national decarbonization goals, and expanding energy storage deployment across the region.

TGERC Approves TGNPDCL Takeover Of CESS Power Distribution Operations In Telangana

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21st May 2026

The Telangana Electricity Regulatory Commission (TGERC) has issued a major order allowing the Northern Power Distribution Company of Telangana Limited (TGNPDCL) to officially take over the power distribution operations of the Cooperative Electric Supply Society Limited (CESS) in Sircilla of Rajanna Sircilla district. The order, issued on May 19, 2026, marks the end of a 56-year-old cooperative power distribution system and brings the area under the direct management of the state-run distribution company.

The issue arose after the statutory exemption granted to CESS expired on March 31, 2026. According to the Electricity Act, 2003, a cooperative society can continue operating without a regular distribution license only if the state government recommends an extension. However, the Telangana Government did not support the continuation of the exemption for CESS, creating uncertainty over electricity distribution services in the region.

To avoid disruption in power supply to consumers, the Commission passed an interim order on March 31, 2026, directing TGNPDCL to temporarily take over the distribution and retail supply services from April 1, 2026. At the same time, the Telangana Government also issued directions to merge the distribution activities of CESS with TGNPDCL.

The state government’s decision was reportedly influenced by several allegations against the CESS management, including administrative inefficiencies, financial irregularities, lack of transparency in procurement and working estimates, and political interference. Following these developments, TGNPDCL approached the Commission seeking an official amendment to its existing distribution license to include all consumers previously served by CESS.

The proposal generated strong public reaction, with 1,211 stakeholders submitting feedback and objections before the Commission. Many supporters, including local farmers, backed the merger and claimed that services had improved after TGNPDCL assumed temporary control. They highlighted better maintenance work, improved administration, and more transparent operations.

However, several stakeholders opposed the move and described it as an unfair takeover of a long-standing cooperative institution. The objectors argued that the transition ignored the interests and democratic rights of around 3.41 lakh CESS members. They also demanded a financial white paper, forensic audit, and payment of pending government dues of around ₹787 crore before any merger process was completed.

After reviewing all submissions, the Commission rejected the objections and clarified that its responsibility was limited to ensuring uninterrupted and reliable electricity supply under the Electricity Act. TGERC approved the amendment to TGNPDCL’s distribution license with retrospective effect from April 1, 2026. The order also directed TGNPDCL to maintain the same level of service for former CESS consumers and continue existing retail tariffs during the 2026–27 financial year.

Ultra-Durable Water Battery Could Transform Long-Term Energy Storage Economics

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Sangita Shetty

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21st May 2026

Electrochemical cells connected to a battery testing device with data graphs on a laptop screen in a chemistry lab — A laboratory setup for electrochemical battery testing with connected cells and monitoring instruments

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong and Southern University of Science and Technology have developed a new water-based battery technology designed to deliver ultra-long operational life while improving safety and sustainability for future energy storage applications.

According to research published in the journal Nature Communications, the battery uses a neutral pH aqueous electrolyte combined with specially engineered organic polymer materials that enable significantly improved durability compared to conventional aqueous battery systems. Researchers reported that the prototype battery successfully achieved up to 120,000 charge-discharge cycles while maintaining stable performance.

The development addresses one of the longstanding limitations of water-based batteries. Although aqueous batteries are generally considered safer and less flammable than lithium-ion systems, their adoption has been restricted by lower energy density and rapid material degradation caused by highly acidic or alkaline electrolytes.

To overcome this challenge, the research team developed a neutral electrolyte system with a pH of 7, reducing corrosion and improving long-term chemical stability inside the battery. The design also incorporates a specialized compound known as hexaketone tetraaminodibenzo-p-dioxin, featuring a rigid honeycomb-like molecular structure that helps maintain structural integrity over extended operating periods.

Researchers stated that the battery chemistry was designed for magnesium and calcium ion storage rather than conventional lithium-based systems. The use of water-based electrolytes and non-toxic materials could offer additional environmental and operational safety advantages for large-scale energy storage applications.

The breakthrough could have important implications for renewable energy infrastructure, particularly grid-scale battery storage systems that require long operational life, low maintenance and improved fire safety. Long-duration and highly durable storage technologies are becoming increasingly important as utilities integrate larger shares of solar and wind energy into electricity networks.

According to the researchers, the battery’s extremely high cycle life could potentially support decades of continuous grid-storage operation under normal usage conditions, significantly improving storage economics over time.

The findings were detailed in the Nature Communications paper titled “An aqueous battery using an electrolyte with a pH of 7 and suitable for direct environmental discard,” published by the international research team earlier this year.

Telangana Electricity Regulatory Commission Cancels DSM Charges Based On Faulty Solar Meter Data

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21st May 2026

Solar panels array at a renewable energy center with modern office building — A solar power plant with adjacent administrative building in a desert landscape

The Telangana Electricity Regulatory Commission has delivered a major relief to M/s Sprng Transform Sun Energy Private Limited by ruling that deviation charges calculated on the basis of faulty meter data cannot be sustained. The dispute was related to a Deviation Settlement Mechanism (DSM) invoice issued by the Telangana State Load Despatch Centre on August 3, 2024, for the month of April 2023.

The company operates a 100 MW solar power project in Mahbubnagar district and supplies electricity to the state distribution utility. Under existing DSM regulations, renewable energy generators are penalized if the actual power supplied to the grid deviates beyond the permitted limits from the scheduled forecast. During verification of the billing data, the developer noticed an unusual issue in the system records which showed the solar plant generating electricity during night hours, something physically impossible for a solar project.

Further investigation revealed that the plant’s energy meters had developed a severe 15-hour “time drift” error. Due to this technical problem, the electricity generated during the daytime was incorrectly recorded in night-time blocks. As a result, the grid management software treated the plant’s generation pattern as a major deviation from its approved schedule.

Although the company identified the issue and replaced the faulty equipment on April 16, 2023, the TGSLDC still proceeded with the billing process. The solar developer was charged nearly ₹79.45 lakh at the project level and around ₹5.12 crore under state periphery pool deviation accounts for April 2023. Facing the possibility of grid disconnection, the company paid the disputed amount under protest and later approached the state commission seeking relief.

During the proceedings, grid authorities argued that the responsibility for meter maintenance, calibration, and monitoring lies entirely with the generator. They also claimed that revising the billing for one generator could affect DSM calculations for 157 other renewable energy projects in the state. However, the authorities later admitted that at least eight renewable energy companies were facing similar meter-related technical issues that had impacted DSM accounting across the state.

The commission observed that proper time synchronization is essential for accurate deviation calculations. It stated that data showing solar generation during midnight hours was clearly unreliable and could not be used as a legal basis for imposing penalties. The regulator concluded that the error was technical in nature and not caused by negligence or intentional action by the developer.

Accordingly, the commission set aside the disputed invoice to the extent of the incorrect meter data and directed TGSLDC to prepare a detailed rectification methodology for such time-drift errors. The framework must be published for stakeholder comments within one month. After approval, the revised methodology will be used to recalculate bills and refund or adjust excess amounts collected from all affected renewable energy generators. The commission also barred authorities from taking coercive recovery action against impacted projects until the correction process is completed.

European Bank for Reconstruction And Development Provides Up To €25 Million Loan To Boost Green Investments In Türkiye

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21st May 2026

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is providing a loan of up to €25 million to BNP Paribas Finansal Kiralama, a major privately owned leasing company operating in Türkiye. The aim of the financing is to help businesses in the country become more resilient while supporting their shift towards greener and more sustainable investments.

This financing is the first operation under the Türkiye Green Economy Financing Facility (GEFF) III. Through this programme, the funds will be passed on to eligible businesses investing in green economy projects such as energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy systems, and climate-resilient infrastructure. The goal is to make it easier for companies to access long-term financing for environmentally sustainable investments.

A key feature of the initiative is that at least 30 per cent of the total funding will be directed towards green investments in regions affected by the earthquakes that struck Türkiye in February 2023. This support is intended to help businesses in these areas rebuild in a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient way, reducing future risks while encouraging cleaner growth.The total financing package includes €23.5 million from the EBRD and an additional €1.5 million from the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund.

Together, this funding is designed to overcome affordability challenges and ensure that green investments can be made in areas where financing needs are greatest.Alongside the loan, the project will benefit from technical cooperation support provided by the EBRD. This will help strengthen BNP Paribas Finansal Kiralama’s internal capabilities in areas such as climate governance, green lending practices, and risk management.

The programme will also support improved access to finance for women, promoting more inclusive economic participation.EBRD representatives highlighted the importance of working with local financial institutions to expand green investment across Türkiye. They noted that the GEFF programme is designed to channel finance into projects that deliver strong environmental impact while also addressing specific local needs, including recovery in earthquake-affected regions.

BNP Paribas Finansal Kiralama also emphasised that this transaction marks an important step in expanding its role in sustainable finance. As part of BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions, which manages €15.5 billion in annual leasing volumes across 17 countries, the company aims to increase access to financing for energy efficiency, renewable energy, and climate resilience projects, while continuing to support rebuilding efforts in affected regions.

BNP Paribas Finansal Kiralama has been a long-term partner of the EBRD and previously participated in the GEFF II programme. Its strong presence in Türkiye’s construction and industrial sectors positions it as an important channel for expanding green investments, especially in areas where reconstruction and modernisation are most needed.Since 2009, the EBRD has been one of the largest institutional investors in Türkiye, committing more than €24 billion across over 525 projects aimed at supporting sustainable development and economic growth.

HPERC Proposes New Renewable Energy Amendment To Align State Tariff Regulations With CERC 2024 Framework In Himachal Pradesh

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21st May 2026

photography of electric tower during sunset — Representational image. Credit: Canva

The Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (HPERC) has released a fresh draft amendment aimed at updating the state’s renewable energy regulations in line with evolving national standards. The notification, issued from Shimla on May 12, 2026, is officially titled the Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (Promotion of Generation from the Renewable Energy Sources and Terms and Conditions for Tariff Determination) (Eighth Amendment) Regulations, 2026. The proposed amendment seeks to revise the principal renewable energy regulations that were originally introduced in November 2017.

According to the Commission, the latest move has been initiated to maintain consistency with the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), which had earlier notified its revised regulations related to tariff determination for renewable energy projects in July 2024. HPERC stated that aligning the state framework with the central regulations is necessary for improving regulatory clarity and ensuring uniformity in renewable energy policies and tariff-related provisions.

One of the key highlights of the draft amendment is the introduction of updated definitions related to biomass-based renewable energy projects. The draft clearly defines “Biomass” to include agricultural waste, forestry residues, by-products from agricultural processing such as husks and shells, as well as wood generated from energy plantations, industrial waste, and wild bushes. The amendment also introduces a formal definition for “Biomass gasification,” describing it as a process of incomplete combustion that produces combustible gases mainly consisting of carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and traces of methane.

The draft regulations further propose a detailed classification of the “Useful Life” of different renewable energy technologies. Under the proposed norms, wind power projects, solar photovoltaic plants, floating solar projects, solar thermal systems, biogas projects, biomass gasifier-based power plants, biomass projects using Rankine cycle technology, and non-fossil fuel-based co-generation projects will have a useful life of 25 years from the date of commercial operation.

Small hydro projects have been granted the highest operational lifespan of 40 years under the proposed amendment, recognizing their long-term infrastructure viability. On the other hand, municipal solid waste and refuse-derived fuel-based projects are proposed to have a useful life of 20 years.

For hybrid renewable energy projects, the draft states that the useful life will be considered equal to the minimum lifespan among the combined technologies in cases involving composite tariffs. Similarly, renewable energy projects integrated with storage systems will have a useful life equivalent to the renewable energy project itself, assuming no storage component exists.

HPERC has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders, developers, consumers, and other interested parties. The Commission has provided a 30-day period from the date of publication of the draft notification for submitting comments. The complete draft amendment has been uploaded on the official HPERC website, and responses are required to be submitted to the Secretary of the Commission at Vidyut Aayog Bhawan, Kasumpti, Shimla. The proposed regulations will become effective after their publication in the Rajpatra of Himachal Pradesh.

SAEL Limited Commissions 600 MW Solar Projects in Andhra Pradesh with ₹3,000 Crore Renewable Energy Investment

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21st May 2026

SAEL Limited has commissioned two 300 MW solar power projects in Andhra Pradesh, taking the company’s total operational capacity in the state to 600 MW and marking a significant boost to the state’s renewable energy expansion plans.

The projects, SAEL Solar MHP1 Private Limited and SAEL Solar MHP2 Private Limited, located in YSR Kadapa district, were completed in a record 11 months with an investment of nearly ₹3,000 crore. Andhra Pradesh Minister for HRD, IT & Electronics and RTG, Nara Lokesh is scheduled to formally inaugurate the projects on May 22, 2026.

The inauguration event will also be attended by Andhra Pradesh Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi, District In-Charge Minister S. Savitha, MLA Ch. Adinarayana Reddy, senior district officials, and key SAEL executives including Co-Founder and Director Sukhbir Singh and Executive Director & CEO Laxit Awla.

The integrated solar facility spans over 2,400 acres and uses more than 12 lakh TOPCon bifacial solar modules, most of which were assembled at SAEL’s manufacturing units in Punjab and Rajasthan. The projects achieved commercial operations earlier this year, with MHP1 commissioned on January 30, 2026, and MHP2 on March 13, 2026.

Power generated from the projects will be supplied to the national grid under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement with Solar Energy Corporation of India. The projects are expected to offset nearly 11 lakh tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually while strengthening Andhra Pradesh’s position as a key renewable energy hub in India.

According to the company, more than 1,000 workers were employed directly and indirectly during the construction phase, with nearly 80% sourced from local communities. The projects have also created long-term economic opportunities for farmers through structured land lease agreements spanning approximately 25 years.

The projects were executed under SAEL’s integrated EPC and O&M framework with support from the Government of Andhra Pradesh for land facilitation, approvals, and grid connectivity.

The inauguration comes as Andhra Pradesh pushes forward with its Integrated Clean Energy Policy 2024, which targets investments worth ₹10 lakh crore across renewable energy, energy storage, green hydrogen, transmission, and manufacturing sectors by 2029.

SAEL Industries currently has a portfolio of 8,299 MWp of contracted and awarded solar and battery storage projects across India, along with 3,625 MW of solar module assembly capacity and 164.9 MW of agri waste-to-energy operations. The company is also evaluating additional renewable energy and agri waste-to-energy investments in Andhra Pradesh.

Iberdrola España Completes Port Of Pasaia Electrification With New Onshore Power Supply System For Ships

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21st May 2026

Iberdrola España has completed a project to electrify the Pasaia port area by installing an innovative Onshore Power Supply (OPS) system. This technology allows ships docked at the port to plug into the onshore electricity grid while they are berthed, so they can use renewable energy instead of running their own engines.

As a result, the system helps reduce both air pollution and noise levels in and around the port.The new OPS connection has been installed at the Kaputxinos pier in the port of Pasaia in Gipuzkoa. It will mainly serve hybrid Ro-Ro vessels operated by the shipping company UECC, which transport wheeled cargo such as vehicles and account for a significant share of port traffic.

By supplying clean electricity directly from shore, these vessels can shut down their auxiliary engines while docked.Local authorities and project partners have highlighted the environmental benefits of the initiative. According to Izaskun Goñi, president of the Pasaia Port Authority, the infrastructure will significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality in the surrounding area, supporting the goal of turning Pasaia into a more environmentally sustainable port committed to decarbonisation.

Iberdrola España’s representative in the Basque Country, Eduardo Lobato, also noted that electrifying ports is an important step in the energy transition of maritime transport, enabling cleaner, more efficient, and better-managed energy use.The system also brings additional environmental and social benefits. Estimates from the International Maritime Organization suggest that OPS technology can reduce noise levels by up to 16 decibels by eliminating the need for auxiliary engines during loading and unloading operations.

This reduction in noise, along with lower emissions and fewer vibrations, improves living conditions for people living near port areas. It also helps reduce fuel costs for ships and decreases wear and tear on onboard equipment.Overall, the OPS system offers multiple advantages, including lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduced local air pollution, quieter port operations, and improved energy efficiency during ship docking.

The Pasaia project is part of a broader Iberdrola España initiative called “Deployment of Onshore Power Supply (OPS) Technology and Decarbonization of the Electricity Supply in the Ports of Pasaia, Vigo, and Alicante.” This initiative has received support from Spain’s Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility under the Sustainable and Digital Transport Support Programme, which is part of the country’s Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan funded by the European Union’s Next Generation EU funds. The project was awarded a grant of €1.9 million.

APERC Sets New Reliability Targets For Urban Power Supply Across Andhra Pradesh

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21st May 2026

low angle photo of gray transmission tower — Representational image. Credit: Canva

The Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) has issued new practice directions to improve the reliability and quality of power supply in major urban areas across the state. The directions, released on May 20, 2026, focus on benchmarking key reliability indices for cities and towns having a population of more than one lakh. The move is aimed at ensuring better power quality and uninterrupted electricity supply for consumers.

Under the latest order, all distribution companies (DISCOMs) in Andhra Pradesh have been directed to provide round-the-clock electricity supply to all categories of consumers except agricultural consumers. The power supply schedule for the agriculture sector will continue to be regulated according to the guidelines issued by the Government of Andhra Pradesh from time to time.

The Commission stated that the directions are in line with the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020, notified by the Ministry of Power, Government of India. These rules require State Electricity Regulatory Commissions to establish target-based benchmarks for important reliability indicators such as the System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI) and System Average Interruption Frequency Index (SAIFI). These indicators measure the duration and frequency of power interruptions faced by consumers.

Following a directive issued by the Ministry of Power in October 2025, APERC collected five years of historical data and future projections from the state DISCOMs before finalizing the reliability benchmarks. Based on population data from the 2011 Census and information submitted by the utilities, several cities and towns have been identified under the new framework.

Under APEPDCL, the identified urban areas include Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, Rajamahendravaram, Vizianagaram, and Eluru. APCPDCL will cover Gudivada, Machilipatnam, Chirala, Ongole, Guntur, Tenali, Narasaraopet, Vijayawada, Mangalagiri, and Chilakaluripeta. APSPDCL will implement the targets in Ananthapur, Kadapa, Proddatur, Kurnool, Nandyal, Nellore, and Tirupati.

APERC has also established a five-year trajectory from FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31 for reducing power interruptions on non-industrial 33/11kV feeders supplying these urban areas. APSPDCL has been instructed to reduce its annual SAIDI from 25 hours and 15 minutes to 24 hours and 30 minutes, while reducing SAIFI from 49 to 33 interruptions. APCPDCL must reduce SAIDI from 26 hours to 25 hours and 15 minutes and lower SAIFI from 47 to 31 interruptions. Similarly, APEPDCL has been directed to reduce SAIDI from 23 hours and 56 minutes to 23 hours and 51 minutes and lower SAIFI from 67 to 63 interruptions.

To achieve these targets, DISCOMs have been directed to strengthen infrastructure, upgrade systems, deploy advanced technology, and ensure the availability of skilled manpower. The utilities must also submit quarterly compliance reports to the Commission. APERC further warned that failure to meet the prescribed standards may result in compensation payments to affected consumers as per existing regulations.

Solar Energy Corporation of India to Lead ₹2,584 Crore Small Hydro Scheme Supporting 1,500 MW Renewable Energy Expansion by FY31

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21st May 2026

Solar Energy Corporation of India has been appointed as the National Programme Implementing Agency (NPIA) for the Government of India’s Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme for the period FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31, marking a major step in strengthening the country’s renewable energy transition.

The scheme, introduced under the guidance of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and supported by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, has been allocated a total budget outlay of ₹2,584.60 crore. It aims to facilitate the development of nearly 1,500 MW of new Small Hydro Power capacity across India.

As the implementing agency, SECI will oversee project appraisal, implementation monitoring, Central Financial Assistance (CFA) disbursement, database management, and nationwide execution of the programme.

The initiative is expected to accelerate decentralized clean energy generation, promote sustainable development in hilly and remote regions, create employment opportunities, and contribute to India’s climate and energy security objectives.

The scheme will also support innovation, Detailed Project Report (DPR) preparation, institutional strengthening, and capacity-building activities to further expand India’s small hydro power ecosystem.

APTEL Cuts SCOD Extension For 74 MW Punjab Solar Projects, Partly Modifies Regulatory Order

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21st May 2026

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The Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL) has delivered a significant judgment in a long-running dispute involving three solar power projects with a combined capacity of 74 MW in Punjab. The appeals were filed by Punjab Energy Development Agency against earlier orders issued by Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission in favor of M/s Mihit Solar Private Limited.

The dispute revolved around the Scheduled Commercial Operation Date (SCOD) of the projects and the release of the developer’s Performance Bank Guarantees. Under the original agreement, the solar projects were required to be commissioned by January 31, 2016. However, delays occurred during project execution, leading the developer to seek extensions under force majeure provisions.

Earlier, PSERC had granted extensions totaling 90 days after accepting several reasons put forward by the developer. These included a 72-day delay caused by grid-connectivity issues, an 11-day delay due to a stay order issued by a Civil Judge in Sardulgarh, and a 7-day delay linked to the Jat agitation. Based on these findings, PSERC also directed the release of the Performance Bank Guarantees submitted by the developer.

PEDA, supported by Punjab State Power Corporation Limited, challenged the commission’s decision before APTEL. The agencies argued that the developer itself was responsible for major delays, particularly in land procurement. According to the appellants, Mihit Solar took 101 days to submit valid land documents because the initially identified land was found to be involved in litigation and encumbered with bank loans. They argued that this showed a lack of proper due diligence on the part of the developer and should not qualify for any relief.

A major legal issue in the case involved Article 10.4 of the Implementation Agreement, which required the developer to issue a formal written notice within five days whenever a force majeure event occurred. PEDA argued that Mihit Solar failed to comply with this mandatory requirement. Instead of submitting proper force majeure notices, the developer had only sent general correspondence and updates regarding project difficulties. PEDA also relied on Supreme Court judgments to argue that compliance with notice provisions is a strict contractual requirement and non-compliance invalidates extension claims.

In response, Mihit Solar contended that both PEDA and PSPCL were fully aware of the problems being faced by the projects. The company argued that letters exchanged between the parties, including one dated May 12, 2015, along with joint meetings, adequately communicated the difficulties related to grid connectivity. The developer further argued that the agreement did not specify any penalty for failure to issue formal notices, making the requirement directory rather than mandatory.

After examining the contractual provisions and submissions from all sides, APTEL partly modified PSERC’s earlier order. The tribunal rejected the 11-day extension granted due to the civil court stay order because no proper force majeure notice had been issued for that specific event. As a result, the total extension was reduced from 90 days to 79 days, shifting the revised SCOD to April 19, 2016. Since the projects were commissioned before this revised deadline, APTEL upheld the remaining directions of PSERC, effectively bringing the dispute to a close.

European Bank For Reconstruction And Development Provides US$22 Million Package To Strengthen Lebanon’s Food Retail Sector

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21st May 2026

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is strengthening Lebanon’s food retail sector by providing a US$22 million financing package to Spinneys Levant Limited, one of the country’s major retail operators. The company runs its Lebanese operations through its subsidiary, Gray Mackenzie Retail Lebanon SAL (GMRL).

This support aims to help the retailer continue operating effectively despite Lebanon’s difficult economic conditions, while also promoting more sustainable and energy-efficient practices across its business.The financing includes a US$20.5 million senior loan from the EBRD and a US$1.5 million co-investment grant.

Together, these funds will support Spinneys Levant’s capital expenditure plans in Lebanon, including upgrades to its stores, new production capacity, and investments in energy-efficient technologies that would not be feasible without concessional support. The project benefits from blended finance through a first-loss guarantee from the European Union under the EFSD+ Municipal, Infrastructure and Industrial Resilience Guarantee Programme, designed to encourage investment in challenging environments.

This initiative highlights the continued commitment of both the EBRD and the EU to backing strong private-sector companies in Lebanon, even as the country faces economic instability and regional uncertainty. A portion of the funds will be directed towards expanding Spinneys’ store network and increasing its production capabilities, including the development of a new fresh snack production line.

A key part of the financing focuses on improving energy efficiency across Spinneys’ retail network. The company will implement upgrades in both existing and new outlets, which are expected to significantly reduce energy use and lower annual CO2 emissions by more than 5,400 tonnes. These improvements should also generate substantial energy savings of roughly 150,845 GJ each year.

The project will also help the company reduce its environmental footprint by cutting plastic bag usage by 25 per cent and introducing fully recyclable alternatives. This shift supports broader efforts to improve circularity and responsible waste management within Lebanon’s retail sector.Spinneys has already taken steps in recent years to adopt more sustainable practices, including reducing single-use plastics, promoting recyclable packaging, improving waste handling, and investing in energy-saving technologies.

The EBRD’s financing will enable the company to deepen these efforts and continue modernising its operations.Beyond financial support, the EBRD will also provide a comprehensive technical cooperation programme to help Spinneys strengthen workforce skills. These new training initiatives will focus on key areas such as Retail Space Management, Brand Management, Digital Marketing, and the automation of retail processes, with a particular emphasis on digital and AI-driven operations.

Environmental sustainability will also be included in the training, especially topics related to reducing plastic use and waste.Broadgate Advisers served as the exclusive financial adviser to Spinneys Levant Limited for this transaction.The project is backed by the EFSD+, established under the EU’s NDICI–Global Europe framework, which helps partner countries finance strategic investments through grants and guarantees.

The programme aims to mobilise additional public and private financing for sustainable development and has a global guarantee capacity of €40 billion for the 2021–2027 period.Since beginning its operations in Lebanon, the EBRD has invested more than €864 million in the country. Its efforts have focused on improving private-sector competitiveness, supporting trade finance, advancing sustainable energy solutions, and helping raise the quality and efficiency of essential public services.

RERC Approves ₹6,312 Crore RVPN Transmission Investment Plan For FY 2026-27 In Rajasthan

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21st May 2026