Prime Minister Narendra Modi has virtually laid the foundation stone for SJVN Limited 's 200 MW solar power project at Khavda, Gujarat, marking a significant milestone in India's renewable energy sector. The project, part of the GUVNL Phase – XVII at Khavda Solar Park, represents a major step forward in the country's commitment to sustainable energy development.

Project Details

The 200 MW Khavda Solar Power Project, situated in the Kachchh district of Gujarat, is being developed within the larger Khavda Solar Park, an initiative of the Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Limited (GSECL). SJVN, a Navratna CPSE under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, will oversee the project's implementation.

Key aspects of the project include:

Significance and Impact

This project aligns with India's ambitious renewable energy goals, contributing to the nation's target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2070. The Khavda Solar Power Project is expected to:

1. Utilize the vast arid land of Kachchh for clean power generation
2. Meet a significant portion of Gujarat's renewable energy requirements
3. Create both direct and indirect employment opportunities in the region

SJVN's Growing Portfolio

SJVN Limited, a joint venture between the Government of India and the Government of Himachal Pradesh, continues to expand its renewable energy footprint. The company has:

• Commissioned 14 projects with a total installed capacity of 2,968 MW
• Installed 123 km of transmission lines
• Ongoing power projects across India and neighboring Nepal

The foundation stone laying ceremony was attended virtually by several dignitaries, including Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel, Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, and senior officials from SJVN and its subsidiary SGEL.

As India pushes forward with its clean energy agenda, projects like SJVN's Khavda Solar Power Plant play a crucial role in reshaping the country's energy landscape and contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.

SJVN Limited , a joint venture between the Government of India and the Government of Himachal Pradesh, has announced a significant change to its Board of Directors. The company has appointed Shri Shubh Karan Singh as a Part Time Official Director, representing the Government of Himachal Pradesh.

Appointment Details

The appointment, effective immediately, was made by the Ministry of Power through order No. 15-22/1/2018-HYDEL-II(MoP) dated September 11, 2023. This move strengthens the representation of the Himachal Pradesh government on SJVN's board, potentially bringing valuable insights from the state's perspective to the company's decision-making processes.

About Shri Shubh Karan Singh

Shri Shubh Karan Singh brings a wealth of experience to his new role at SJVN:

• 2015 batch Indian Administrative Services (IAS) Officer
• Currently serves as Special Secretary (MPP & Power) and Non-Conventional Energy Sources in the Government of Himachal Pradesh
• Previously held the position of Chief Executive Officer at HIMURJA
• Career spanning more than 26 years in various administrative positions within the Himachal Pradesh Government

Implications for SJVN

The appointment of Shri Singh is expected to enhance the synergy between SJVN and the Government of Himachal Pradesh. His extensive experience in the power sector and non-conventional energy sources aligns well with SJVN's operations as a prominent player in the hydroelectric power generation industry.

Compliance and Transparency

In compliance with regulatory requirements, SJVN has confirmed that:

• Shri Singh is not related to any existing director on the company's Board
• He has not been debarred from holding a directorship by any authority, including SEBI

This appointment underscores SJVN's commitment to maintaining strong governance practices and fostering close ties with its government stakeholders. As the company continues to expand its renewable energy portfolio, Shri Singh's expertise in non-conventional energy sources could prove particularly valuable in shaping future strategies and initiatives.