'No KSPCB clearance needed for 5MW solar panels'

In order to promote clean and green energy and reduce dependence on coal-based power plants, the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has decided that those installing solar panels of 5MW (megawatt) and less need not apply for consent.

The step comes in the wake of the increasing summer heat, shortage of power in the City and the State and coal plants running out of stock or undergoing periodic maintenance.

Speaking to Deccan Herald, KSPCB Chairman Vaman Acharya said, “In the wake of the increasing demand for power and to promote green energy, the decision has been taken. We have noticed that coal plants are highly polluting industries and are harming the environment. Thus, we have decided that those keen to instal solar panels up to 5MW need not come to us for permission.”

“After the Centre and the State governments started promoting solar panel installations, we received four applications from private companies. Apart from this, many queries have been pouring in. Also, the power generated from solar panels will go to the grid directly and there will be no pollution. While company does not require permission for installation of the panel, but for setting up the unit, due permissions should be taken,” he added.

Solar power comes under green category in the industry categorisation of Pollution Control Act.

25 acres of land
Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited (KREDL) Assistant General Manager, Solar Grid, S K Prabhakar said that at least five acres of land is required to instal one MW solar panel and for 5MW panel one requires 25 acres of land.

Over 5MW panels are usually installed by large megawatt power plants. There are already 10 such plants in Karnataka including Kolar, Belagavi, Shimsha and Hiriyur. Of this, four plants are managed by the KPCL and rest are private. A total of 84MW of solar photovolti plants have been installed of which 14MW is from government sector (KPCL) and 70MW is from private pants, he explained.

The Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited  (BESCOM) officials said that this order would not come under their purview as only solar rooftop panels were installed in the City and that they were limited to one MW supply.