BJD MlA Debasis Nayak, in a letter submitted to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has demanded a comprehensive renewable energy policy in the State. Nayak said Odisha has enormous capacity for

generating energy from renewable sources which can be harnessed to meet the current energy crisis.

Nayak, an active member of Climate Parliament network of MlAs and MPs, mentioned that Odisha by virtue of its geological position has potential for generation of power from all types of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, biomass, hydro, etc. Rough assessment puts State’s gross renewable energy potential at 53,820 MW. Drawing attention of the Chief Minister to the rising energy demand and non availability of electricity in the remote tribal and rural pockets, the MlA said that the issue can be addressed by harnessing renewable energy resources.

Clean energy can also significantly contribute in meeting the energy needs of the urban areas in the State. For both, grid connected and off grid renewable energy development, the State needs a robust and well framed comprehensive energy policy, he said urging that the proposed policy should clearly specify the modalities, finance, subsidies and role of different stakeholders in the renewable energy sector of the State.

Climate Parliament State Coordinator Itishree Kanungo said, “The women SHGs are capable enough to own the renewable energy solutions in their communities and get involved in the entrepreneurial initiative.”