The state of Odisha has outlined an ambitious roadmap to emerge as a national benchmark in the energy sector, placing a sharp focus on renewable energy, grid resilience, and consumer-centric reforms. In a recent address at the Power Ministers’ Conference in New Delhi, Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister, K V Singh Deo, urged the Centre for support in realising this vision.
Massive Push for Pumped Storage and Green Corridors
K V Singh Deo presented Odisha’s plan to develop more than 10,000 MW of pumped storage projects (PSPs) and requested that these projects receive financial assistance at par with battery energy storage systems. He also sought the Centre’s approval and support for the Green Energy Corridor Phase-III, which is essential to integrate renewable energy generation into the grid. The minister called for streamlined forest clearance processes to ensure timely implementation of transmission infrastructure projects.
Setting Clean Energy Targets and Boosting Resilience
Odisha currently sources 8,856 MW of power, with a goal to add 15,603 MW by 2030—of which 50 percent will come from renewable energy. The state also aims to independently develop 10,000 MW of renewable energy capacity by the same year. To strengthen its power distribution infrastructure, the state has submitted a proposal for ₹3,069 crore under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) to make its systems cyclone-resilient. The proposal is awaiting approval from the Central government.
Advancing Reforms and Consumer-Oriented Initiatives
Odisha has implemented the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020, and is actively promoting solar rooftop adoption under the PM Suryaghar scheme. The state is considering financial incentives to drive further participation. Highlighting the success of its PPP model in power distribution, Singh Deo pointed out that all four of Odisha’s distribution companies—TPCODL, TPWODL, TPNODL—are ranked among the top ten nationally by the Ministry of Power.
Central Government’s Response and Assurances
Union Power Minister Manohar Lal assured Odisha of full cooperation in its energy goals. He confirmed that a joint meeting of the Ministries of Power, Coal, Environment, and Railways would be convened to address fly ash management issues, including allocation of railway rakes. He also expressed support for including Odisha’s Green Energy Corridor projects under MNRE’s framework after March 31, 2025. Additionally, he backed Odisha’s eligibility for the next phase of RDSS and promised allocation of power from the NLCIL Talabira Phase-II thermal power plant.
