The latest renewable energy news includes announcements on Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam, Great North Road Solar Project, and others.
Tamil Nadu Introduces Battery Storage Policy Targeting 2.5 GW/10 GWh with Transmission Charge Waivers
The government of Tamil Nadu has approved a new battery energy storage policy targeting at least 2.5 GW/10 GWh of storage capacity. Approved during the October 29 policy cycle, the framework covers standalone and renewable-energy-linked battery installations. New solar and solar-hybrid projects of 1 MW and above must incorporate storage equivalent to at least 10 percent of generation capacity, with four hours of discharge duration. The policy proposes a 100 percent waiver of eligible transmission and wheeling charges for ten years, subject to regulatory conditions. It also introduces requirements covering battery availability, grid connectivity and dispatch. The framework takes effect through the applicable government notification process, with implementation and tariff-related approvals remaining important requirements.
Rajasthan Utility Launches 250 kW/250 kWh Sodium-Ion Battery Storage Pilot for Rooftop Solar Integration
Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam and the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet have signed an agreement to develop a 250 kW/250 kWh sodium-ion battery storage pilot in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Announced October 29, the initiative will be implemented at K.L. Saini Stadium. The partners have issued a request for proposals to select the technology and implementation provider. The installation will evaluate sodium-ion battery performance under actual electricity distribution conditions, including high summer temperatures. Testing will examine transformer peak loading, rooftop solar utilisation, battery safety, degradation and operating costs. Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam will provide the project location and operating data, while the alliance will support technical evaluation and staff training.
UK Approves 800 MW Great North Road Solar Project with 440 MW/880 MWh Battery Storage
The UK government has granted development consent for the 800 MW Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park in Nottinghamshire, England. The approval was issued October 27 and detailed in subsequent project reporting. Developer Elements Green plans to combine photovoltaic generation with a 440 MW/880 MWh battery storage system. The development will connect to the existing 400 kV Staythorpe substation near Newark-on-Trent. Annual solar generation is estimated at approximately 1.1 TWh, equivalent to electricity consumption by around 400,000 households. Construction is expected to begin during 2027, with first electricity exports targeted for 2028. The approval permits the project to advance toward construction but does not represent financial close or commissioning.
