The state government has recently constituted the West Bengal Green Energy Development Corporation (WBGEDC). Why form a new body when we already have an active organisation like West Bengal Renewable Energy Development Agency (WBREDA) in place?
The WBREDA was a registered society. When the concept of renewable energy became popular, we felt the need for a corporate body to facilitate private investment and mainstream the renewable energy sources. Precisely therefore, the WBGEDC was formed. The new body will also be a consultant for states, especially those in the North East.
Will the WBGEDC be governed by a renewable energy policy? The West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation, for instance, has an industrial policy.
Yes. We will have a detailed policy in place, on issues like bio-diesel, regulations related to energy efficiency of buildings and incentives for green premises.
What kind of incentives and subsidies can one expect?
Consumers, who cut down on their daily consumption of water or those who save power by installing Compact Fluorescent Lamps and LEDs, can be given performance-linked incentives. Say, a building could be awarded a Grade A, which could offer a partial waiver of the property tax.
What kind of research will you offer on renewable energy?
We are working on an energy audit software to classify buildings in terms of energy efficiency. The WBGEDC will have a cell to explore avenues of renewable energy in the state. It will tie-up with premier technical institutes like the IIT-Kharagpur for conducting research and exploring energy solutions. We will then float tenders, inviting companies to bid for marketing these solutions.
When compared to other states, how does West Bengal fare in this sector?
West Bengal is the best performer in installation of renewable energy systems in off-grid areas. But it is yet to make a mark in the wind energy, where Tamil Nadu scores high. Solar energy is catching on, though it's a bit expensive. West Bengal has a potential of nearly 7,000 MW of renewable energy.
That brings us to the cost effectiveness of solar energy devices.
With the rise in petrol and diesel prices, solar energy has become relatively less expensive than conventional fuels. Earlier, it was termed very expensive, and in the next few years, it will be only a little expensive.
What will be the cost, if someone wants to run all the electrical appliances of one's home by solar energy?
If you want to operate five lights, two fans and one TV on solar power, it will involve a cost of Rs 30,000.
Does the government provide any subsidy on such installations?
The Centre does provide capital subsidy. By installing a solar water-heating capacity, one can expect a capital subsidy of 20 per cent on the cost. To avail this subsidy, one should not be using electricity at all and it must be used only for domestic use.
What are the power generation targets of the West Bengal Green Energy Development Council?
We have aimed for an installed capacity of 200 MW by 2012 and 500 MW by 2015. We hope to bring solar power to one million households by 2015.
Kolkata is one of the most polluted cities in the world and things seem to become worse. Can we blame it on a lack of effective policy or the slackness in enforcement?
There are stringent laws in place, we now need awareness among the masses. You cannot turn a blind eye and wait for an enforcement agency to turn up, when you see a vehicle billowing out toxic smoke. Of course, we need stricter enforcement too. But if there has to be a change for the better, then the enforcement agencies have to be supported by public action.