Maharashtra energy minister rules out new thermal power stations due to high cost

State energy minister Nitin Raut on Thursday said the government decided not to set up new thermal power stations and instead focus on increasing generation of renewable energy.

Sources said the government decision was a fallout of increasing cost of production at thermal plants, the pollution issue at some places and other issues. “The government will promote solar energy and ensure 25% energy procured is from renewable sources,” he said. Single-window clearance for clean energy and renewable power projects will help in their timely completion.