519 small hydel power units allotted, 386 cancelled: A Karnataka lesson for Centre
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, railways)· Mains·
Why in news
The Karnataka experience of high cancellation rates in small hydel power projects highlights systemic issues in project viability and environmental clearance hurdles.
Background
In Karnataka, 519 small hydel power units were allotted, but 386 were subsequently cancelled before commissioning. Many of these projects were linked to a businessman with alleged fraud and political connections, primarily failing due to difficulties in obtaining environmental clearances in forest areas.
Facts for Prelims
- Fact386 small hydel power projects were cancelled in Karnataka out of 519 allotted units.
- S&TSmall hydel power projects are decentralized hydroelectric power generation units typically under 25 MW.
- EnvironmentEnvironmental clearances for hydel projects in forest areas are governed by the Forest (Conservation) Act and EIA notifications.
For Mains
Q. Critically analyze the structural and regulatory bottlenecks hindering the successful commissioning of small hydel power projects in India despite government incentives.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Regulatory bottleneck: Complexity of obtaining environmental clearances in ecologically sensitive forest zones.
- Governance risk: Vulnerability of infrastructure projects to political patronage and fraudulent private actors.
- Economic viability: High capital risk and low completion rates leading to stranded assets in the renewable sector.
Keywords: Stranded assets · Environmental clearance · Regulatory hurdles · Political economy · Renewable energy viability
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