Govt to outsource reviews to fast-track hydro plants

THE CENTRAL ELECTRICITY Authority (CEA) is moving to outsource geological assessments to speed up approvals for hydroelectricand pumped storage projects, as it seeks to meet clean energy targets ahead of schedule, according to an official notice.

- ARUNIMA BHARADWAJ

The agency plans to hire external experts to accelerate project design and support timely execution.

“Competent experts will evaluate geological chapters of detailed project reports (DPRs) and ensure the geological aspects of hydroelectric projects and pumped storage projects,” the agency said.

“CEA shall concur DPRs of these hydroelectric projects and pumped storage projects based on the evaluation done by the competent experts. The competent experts will get suitable payment towards evaluation of the DPR chapters,” it added.