New Delhi: The revitalization of the Khavda airstrip in Gujarat bordering Pakistan into the Khavda Renewable Energy Park has been making headlines recently.
The project, which will utilize both solar and wind energy, is spearheaded by Gautam Adani, Asia's second-richest man, amid his organization's pivot towards renewable energy as the government incentivizes its renewable energy goals.
The Khavda Renewable Energy Park, spans over 538 square kilometers and is one of the world's largest renewable energy hubs. It seeks to leverage the region's abundant solar power and brisk wind speeds.
The park is located near Vighakot village in Kutch district of Gujarat, India, very close to the international border with Pakistan.
The estimated cost of the project is Rs 150,000 crore (or US$19 billion).
Since its inception in December 2022, the park has seen the installation of solar panels and wind turbines, alongside essential amenities such as worker colonies and desalination plants.
The recent commissioning of 2,000 MW capacity marks a significant milestone for this project with more plans to generate an additional 30 megawatts of clean electricity.
Despite logistical challenges posed by the remote location and rugged terrain, the construction of the airstrip, completed in 35 days, has helped propel the project forward.
Situated near the international border with Pakistan, the park maintains a buffer zone manned by the Border Security Force, ensuring security and smooth operations.
Adani Green Energy aims to generate 500 GW of electricity from non-fossil sources by 2030, with Khavda playing a pivotal role in this endeavor with projected electricity generation of 81 billion units at its peak.
According to Adani Green Energy, energy from the Khavda park can power 16.1 million homes each year.
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