Telangana’s Green Policy to Attract ₹2 Lakh Crore
In a transformative move towards sustainable energy, Telangana has unveiled its new green and renewable energy policy, promising to reshape the state’s energy infrastructure. The policy, which has already been approved by the state cabinet, is designed to attract investments worth ₹1.98 lakh crore and create over 1.14 lakh jobs over the next decade. With the ambitious goal of adding 20,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030, Telangana is positioning itself as a key player in India’s energy transition.
A central feature of the policy is a comprehensive suite of tax incentives and benefits tailored to boost the green energy sector. Among the proposed measures, the government plans to reimburse stamp duty on land acquired for renewable energy plants. For micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) using solar or wind energy, electricity duty exemptions will be offered for the first eight years. Additionally, the policy will streamline approval processes by eliminating the need for no-objection certificates (NOCs) from the Pollution Control Board, and various clearances will be fast-tracked through the state’s TS-iPASS system. This policy overhaul is expected to significantly reduce administrative bottlenecks, making it easier for companies to set up green energy projects.
In a move that aligns with both economic growth and sustainability, Telangana is encouraging the establishment of rooftop solar installations across government schools, public buildings, and Indiramma houses. These initiatives not only provide a practical solution for clean energy access but also promote community-driven renewable energy projects. The government will also promote large-scale solar, wind, and pumped storage projects, including innovative floating solar plants on reservoirs through a competitive bidding process. This combination of solar, wind, and hybrid technologies is expected to play a pivotal role in meeting the state’s growing energy demands.
The policy introduces several steps to foster an inclusive approach to energy generation. A significant feature is the focus on women’s self-help groups, which will be supported in setting up solar power plants with capacities between 500 kilowatts and 2 megawatts. With Discoms committing to purchasing the generated electricity, these initiatives empower women while contributing to the state’s renewable energy goals. Additionally, the government will offer land for renewable energy projects at minimal costs, with both private and government parcels available for lease. The policy also allows the direct sale of green energy by developers to customers, bypassing the need to go through state-owned distribution entities (Discoms), which is expected to enhance the market dynamics for green energy.
From a sustainability perspective, the policy marks a significant step towards a cleaner, more energy-efficient future. Telangana’s renewable energy targets align with the global push to reduce carbon emissions and tackle climate change. The state’s focus on diversified energy solutions, including solar, wind, green hydrogen, and battery storage systems, reflects the growing need for energy systems that are both reliable and environmentally responsible. In the face of climate change, this policy could significantly reduce the state’s reliance on fossil fuels, promote environmental justice, and contribute to India’s ambitious carbon-neutral targets. Moreover, the economic benefits in the form of job creation and increased investments present a win-win scenario, marrying economic growth with sustainable development.
By encouraging the participation of both large corporations and local communities, Telangana’s green energy policy ensures that the transition to renewable energy is both inclusive and sustainable. With the expected rise in energy demand in the coming years, the state is setting itself up for a future that balances growth with environmental stewardship. The policy’s commitment to promoting innovation, fostering advanced technology, and supporting local communities offers a holistic approach to the green energy transition that could serve as a model for other states to emulate.
