Bhubaneswar: Odisha is considering the use of existing canal networks to generate renewable electricity as the State explores new technology-driven solutions to accelerate its clean energy transition.
A high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha at Kharvel Bhavan on Friday examined the potential of Surface Hydro Kinetic (SHK) Turbine technology, presented by clean-tech company MACLEC.
During the meeting, MACLEC explained how SHK turbines could harness the movement of water in existing surface canals to generate electricity. The company highlighted that the technology could help expand renewable energy capacity without the need for additional land.
The company also outlined other potential benefits for Odisha, including local employment opportunities, development of supporting infrastructure and reliable integration of generated power into the State grid.
As part of its proposal, MACLEC presented a plan for a 10 MW clean power generation project along a canal. It sought support from the Energy Department for canal allocation rights as well as necessary permissions for grid synchronisation and future expansion of the project.
The proposal was examined in the presence of senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary, Energy Vishal Kumar Dev, OPTCL Chairman and Managing Director Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, GRIDCO Managing Director Dr Satyapriya Rath and senior officers from the Water Resources Department, GRIDCO and OHPC.
The SHK technology was discussed as a possible addition to Odisha’s renewable energy portfolio, particularly in view of the State’s efforts to increase clean power generation while making efficient use of existing infrastructure.
The Deputy Chief Minister and departmental leadership termed the proposal an interesting and promising concept and indicated that its potential could be examined further as part of Odisha’s clean energy strategy.
