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Strategic Bihar draws investors' interest in power, renewable energy sectors

Feb 07, 2024
Author: BI Bureau

 

Patna: The 'Bihar Roundtable for Electrical Power Transmission & Distribution and Renewable Energy Equipment Manufacturing Industry', organised by the Industries and Energy Departments, concluded successfully, spotlighting Bihar's advancements in power and renewable energy sectors.

The Roundtable aimed to attract investments and foster growth in the power and renewable energy industries. The convergence of investors signifies a pivotal moment for Bihar as it strives to enhance power infrastructure, promote sustainable energy practices, and stimulate economic development.

During the event, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Sandeep Poundrik highlighted Bihar's rapid growth, boasting the third-highest GSDT growth rate during the fiscal year 2021-2022, surpassing the national average of 8.75% with a remarkable 10.9% growth.

Poundrik emphasised Bihar's abundant resources, including 3000 acres of industrial land, 24 lakh square feet of plug-and-play facilities, 75 Industrial Areas with robust water and power supply, and 1176 functional units on BIADA land. He urged investors to contribute to making Bihar a thriving manufacturing hub.

Principal Secretary of the Energy Department and CMD of Bihar State Power Holding Company Limited (BSPHCL), Sanjeev Hans, highlighted Bihar's substantial progress in the power sector. Bihar now supplies electricity for 23.5 hours in urban areas and uninterrupted 24 hours in dedicated feeders for industries. Hans showcased Bihar's achievement of installing over 26 lakh Smart Prepaid Meters, emphasising the state's commitment to technological advancements.

Hans assured investors of significant growth opportunities in the power sector, with more than Rs 9000 crore investment prospects in power equipment procurement over the next decade. He also outlined Bihar's ambitious plans for renewable energy under the 'Jal Jeevan Hariyali Mission' aiming to generate 1000 MW rooftop solar energy on government buildings, representing a Rs 4,600 crore investment opportunity.

The Q&A session, attended by 70 investors, highlighted the state government's investor-friendly policies. Notable participating companies included Adani Power, IntelliSmart Infrastructure Private Limited, Tata Power, and Schneider Electric India. The event underscored Bihar's commitment to good governance and sustainable development in the power and renewable energy sectors.