(a) whether there is any proposal of tapping non-conventional energy sources in Orissa;
(b) if so, whether there is any proposal is under the consideration of the Government for central assistance; and
(c) if so, the incentive package prepared by the Union Government for the improvement of non-conventional energy sources in the State?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES (INDEPENDENT CHARGE), (SHRI M. KANNAPPAN)
(a)&(b): The Ministry is implementing wide ranging programmes to tap the non-conventional energy sources such as solar, wind, biomass and small hydro throughout the country including in the State of Orissa. During the current financial year 2001-02, a target of 13,000 biogas plants, 7 community/institutional/night-soil based plants, 2,00,000 improved chulhas, 2000 solar lanterns, 1000 solar home lighting systems and 300 solar street lighting systems has been proposed for the State of Orissa and an estimated Central Financial Assistance of Rs.7.29 crores has been earmarked for achieving these targets. The Ministry does not allocate State-wise targets for other non-conventional energy programmes. Such projects are taken up on a case to case basis.
(c): The Ministry is providing various fiscal, financial and promotional incentives such as central subsidy, 100% accelerated depreciation, concessional custom duty, excise duty/ sales tax exemptions, soft term loans from Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA), conducive policies for wheeling, buy-back, third party sale of renewable energy power etc. to attract private sector participation and to encourage individuals and organizations to use various renewable energy systems / devices.