India-US Collaboration Towards Electrification of Public Transport & Achieving Net-Zero Emissions by 2070

The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change emphasized the critical role of decarbonizing the transport sector to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and achieve the ambitious net-zero emissions target by 2070 set by the Government of India. Speaking at a side event on the India-US “Payment Security Mechanism (PSM)” for e-buses, the Minister highlighted the significance of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), particularly electric buses, to achieve these environmental goals.

Government Explores Small Nuclear Reactors for Clean Energy Transition

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are gaining attention due to their unique features such as modularity, scalability, small footprint, and enhanced safety. These characteristics make SMRs an attractive option for repurposing retiring coal-based thermal power station sites. By deploying SMRs, especially in locations unsuitable for large nuclear plants, significant amounts of low-carbon electricity can be generated.

National Conference on Energy Transition in Gandhinagar

The conference delved into the critical aspects of energy transition, focusing on scaling up renewable energy generation and consumption. The discussions addressed challenges related to grid integration, financing tools, and the development of supporting infrastructure.

Establishment of New Cattle Feed Plant

The objective of the project is to provide optimum quality cattle feed to milk producers to ensure uninterrupted supply of balanced cattle feed to the affiliated unions and to increase the milk production by providing quality cattle feed. The project also proposes to utilize the energy efficient, green technology to reduce the Carbon Foot Print.

Blending of Compressed Bio-Gas in CNG (Transport) & PNG (Domestic) Segments

The Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs has announced the introduction of the CBG Blending Obligation (CBO). The CBO aims to stimulate demand for CBG in the City Gas Distribution (CGD) sector, with a focus on mandatory blending in the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) transport and Piped Natural Gas (PNG) domestic segments.

Report on Domestic Manufacturing of Heavy Machinery

The committee recommended standardization of equipment to promote domestic manufacturing, urging Captive/Commercial Mine operators and contractors to prioritize indigenous equipment. Tender clauses are proposed to align with the “Make in India” mission, promoting the use of domestically manufactured equipment. To incentivize manufacturers, the committee suggested a scheme to encourage the design, development, and production of equipment in India for five years under the “Make in India” initiative.

Ruby Jubilee Celebration Marks 40 Years of Achievements for AERB

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) celebrated its ruby jubilee on November 15, 2023. During the event prominent figures of the Indian nuclear community shared their reflections on the remarkable progress witnessed by AERB over the past four decades.

Updated List of Approved Solar Photovoltaic Module Manufacturers and Models

Under the updated Approved List of Models and Manufactures for Solar Photovoltaic Modules, the enlistment of models of Solar PV Module Manufacturers in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) will be subject to stringent criteria. Only models that comply with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and meet the minimum module efficiency requirements will be eligible for enlistment under ALMM.

Deadline Extension for CPC Manufacturing Industries

The CAQM emphasizes the importance of timely and accurate information from the concerned industries to facilitate the decision-making process and ensure transparency in the allocation of pet coke resources.