Renewable energy projects coming up in Kurnool

Tata project will generate around 4,000 jobs during construction and provide long-term lease income to more than 1,100 farming families across 3,400 acres. 

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh has emerged as a preferred destination for global investors, with renewed confidence in the state’s investment climate driving large-scale commitments in the renewable energy sector, Industries, IT and Education Minister Nara Lokesh said on Thursday.

Speaking after laying the foundation stone for Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd.’s (TPREL) 800 MW hybrid renewable energy project near Hosur in Pattikonda, Lokesh said the Rs 5,750-crore project would comprise 400 MW of solar power in Kurnool district and 400 MW of wind power in Kanekal, Anantapur district.

The minister said the project reflects the state’s vision under the Integrated Clean Energy Policy-2024, which aims to develop 160 GW of clean energy capacity and position Andhra Pradesh as a global hub for renewable energy manufacturing, green hydrogen and green ammonia production.

Lokesh claimed that the state’s renewable energy capacity had grown by 400% over the past year, attributing the increase to efforts to restore investor confidence. He alleged that policy decisions taken by the previous government had weakened investor sentiment by cancelling power purchase agreements, but said the present administration had rebuilt credibility through policy stability and faster project clearances.

He said leading global investment firms, including Brookfield, Blackstone, BlackRock, EQT and TPG, along with companies such as Tata Power, Suzlon, ReNew, Premier Energies, ACME and Waaree, were expanding investments in Andhra Pradesh.

According to Lokesh, the Tata project will generate around 4,000 jobs during construction and provide long-term lease income to more than 1,100 farming families across 3,400 acres. He also said the state aims to become a major exporter of green hydrogen, green ammonia and other clean energy products, leveraging its long coastline, ports and renewable energy potential.

Highlighting the government’s focus on skill development, the minister said Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) are being linked with industries to align training with employment opportunities. He also referred to the recently launched industry-integrated university model at Sri City, which combines classroom education with on-the-job training. Calling upon young people to upgrade their skills, Lokesh said bringing industries to the state was the government’s responsibility, while preparing for employment through hard work and skill development rested with the youth. Senior representatives from Tata Power, Suzlon, state ministers and public representatives attended the foundation-laying ceremony.