Billionaire Gautam Adani is making bold moves in the renewable energy sector by constructing the world's largest solar and wind energy park in the desert near the Pakistan border. Adani, previously the world's second-richest person, faced setbacks in 2022 due to accusations of stock manipulation and fraud, but his companies have since recovered.
The 61-year-old Adani, known for his diverse business empire, is focusing on a $2.3-billion project called the Khavda Renewable Energy Park. The massive park, set to be completed in 2027, will cover 726 square kilometers in the Rann of Kutch desert, boasting a capacity to generate 30 gigawatts of solar and wind energy. This is equivalent to powering the homes of 18 million people, surpassing the combined populations of London and New York.
Sagar Adani, Gautam's nephew and executive director of Adani Green Energy, stated that the project is progressing rapidly. Adani plans to contribute 17GW, while other companies will generate the remaining power. Once operational, the park will produce one-third more power than China's Three Gorges Dam, currently the world's largest power-generating facility.
The Khavda Renewable Energy Park is a flagship initiative of Adani Green Energy, with France's TotalEnergies holding a 19.7 percent stake. The project aligns with India's goal to create 500 gigawatts of renewable capacity by 2030, addressing half of its energy needs. Adani, a self-described "Proud Indian," aims to invest around $100 billion in the energy transition.
Situated in Mundra, home to India's largest commercial port under the Adani empire, key components for the renewable energy project, including colossal wind turbine blades and solar panels, are being manufactured. Adani envisions creating one of the world's most extensive renewable energy manufacturing ecosystems.
Despite the ambitious push towards renewable energy, India also plans to increase coal-based power capacity, targeting carbon neutrality by 2070—20 years later than many other countries. Adani's renewable energy park, when fully operational, will contribute a significant portion to India's wind and solar energy capacity. Adani Group to Infuse Rs 12,400 Crore in Telangana for Data Center, Clean Energy, and More
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