Frequent power curbs extend project payback periods, raising concerns over renewable energy investments.

Discom Curtailment Slows Gujarat’s Industrial Solar Growth.

Industrial units across Gujarat are facing growing financial pressure as electricity distribution companies (discoms) reportedly curtail power generated by captive open-access solar plants. Industry representatives claim that 20–50% of solar generation is being restricted during peak sunshine hours, with some cases witnessing even higher curtailment. As a result, the expected payback period for solar investments has stretched from around six years to as much as 10–12 years, impacting project viability and manufacturing costs. Textile, spinning, salt, and other power-intensive industries say the uncertainty is disrupting debt servicing and investment plans. Industry bodies have urged the Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC) to address the issue, arguing that renewable energy projects lack the financial protections available to thermal power plants. Meanwhile, Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Ltd (GUVNL) says the state is investing ₹95,000 crore in transmission infrastructure and expanding battery and pumped-storage capacity to strengthen the grid and support its 100 GW renewable energy target.