On Friday, the state government and Gail (India) formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop 1 GW of renewable energy capacity in Karnataka, with an anticipated investment of approximately ₹5,000 crore. The MoU was signed by both parties in the presence of Industries Minister MB Patil, Energy Minister KJ George, and TD Raje Gowda, the chairman of Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Ltd (KREDL).
The principal secretary of the industries department, S Selvakumar, and the executive director of Gail, Parivesh Chugh Singh, have formalised the agreement. Minister Patil stated that the MoU reinforces Karnataka’s status as a favoured location for investments in clean and sustainable energy. “Gail has the option to commence projects by leasing land from farmers, or we can assist in securing land allocation via KIADB. All required approvals, registrations, and concessions will be expedited,” he said.
The MoU allows Gail to investigate and cultivate a varied portfolio of renewable energy sources, which encompasses ground-mounted solar, rooftop solar, floating solar, wind energy, and required storage solutions. “GAIL is eager to obtain appropriate land parcels within solar parks in Karnataka to expedite project execution as part of its focused capital expenditure strategy,” the minister added. Minister KJ George said the partnership would strengthen Karnataka’s standing as a green energy hub while also generating employment and boosting infrastructure development. He added that the MoU marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between Gail and the Government of Karnataka to build a cleaner, greener energy future that contributes meaningfully to the state’s economic growth and climate objectives.
