India’s proposed Andamans-Paradip subsea power link

The proposed ₹31,000-crore Andamans-Paradip subsea power link project has significant geopolitical implications.

Key Highlights:

Project Overview: The project involves a 1,150 km under-sea power cable linking Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to Paradip, Odisha.

Phase-I Cost: Estimated to cost ₹31,000 crore.

HVDC Technology: The project will use High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology with a capacity of 500 MW.

Phase-II: Plans to add another 250 MW HVDC terminal at both ends and lay a cable between Port Blair and Nicobar Islands.

OSOWOG Initiative: The project aligns with India's One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative, which seeks to build a multi-country grid for transmitting solar energy across regions.

Strategic Importance: 

Energy Security: Enhances India's energy security by diversifying energy sources and routes. 

Economic Growth: Promotes economic growth in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the surrounding regions.

Environmental Impact: Supports the transition to clean energy and reduces carbon emissions.