From China’s solar deserts to Norway’s hydro power, learn how countries like the US, Brazil, India, and Germany are shaping the clean energy future with wind, solar, and hydropower. These ten countries shape the global shift to clean power. Know more below.

Global renewable energy index 2025: Top 10 countries generating the most renewable energy

In a significant move that solidifies its commitment to clean energy, Google has announced a historic $3 billion deal with Brookfield Asset Management, securing up to 3 gigawatts of hydropower for its energy-hungry data centres. The deal marks one of the largest corporate clean power contracts in the world and is poised to play a significant role in helping Google meet its ambitious sustainability goals. The partnership centres on two hydroelectric plants in Pennsylvania: the Holtwood and Safe Harbor plants, located roughly 75 miles southwest of Philadelphia. These facilities, with a combined capacity of 670 megawatts, will provide power to Google’s data centres for the next 20 years. However, this is just the beginning.&nbsp;The framework agreement between Google and Brookfield sets the stage for a potential expansion, as Google aims to secure up to 3,000 megawatts of hydropower from Brookfield in the coming years, spanning the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, and Gulf Coast regions. Google’s move comes amid a broader push by the tech industry to tackle the rapidly growing demand for energy driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing.&nbsp;As part of its clean energy push, Google has already made notable investments in other renewable energy sources, such as geothermal and advanced nuclear power. This latest deal underscores the company’s dedication to a 24/7 clean energy model, where energy consumption from its data centres aligns with the clean power generated at any given time.<h2>Why hydropower?&nbsp;</h2>The decision to turn to hydropower is not random. Google’s data centres, which power billions of online services daily, have long been major consumers of energy, and finding reliable, clean energy sources has become critical. While solar and wind power are popular renewable sources, they come with limitations due to their intermittent nature. Wind and solar energy are dependent on weather conditions, making them less reliable in meeting the constant demand from hyperscale data centres.Hydropower, in contrast, offers a reliable and continuous source of energy. Unlike wind and solar, hydropower is a dispatchable resource, meaning it can be produced on demand by releasing stored water from reservoirs. This ability to provide consistent, round-the-clock power makes hydropower an ideal energy source for data centres, which require uninterrupted access to electricity.Hydropower also provides the added benefit of being carbon-free, helping Google advance its sustainability goals. The company has long been committed to sourcing 100 per cent renewable energy for its global operations, and this latest deal with Brookfield will support that effort. As part of the agreement, Google is collaborating with Brookfield to upgrade and relicense its two Pennsylvania plants, ensuring they remain operational for decades to come.“The collaboration with Brookfield is a significant step forward in ensuring a clean energy supply for our data centres, especially in the PJM region where we operate,” said Amanda Peterson Corio, Google's head of data centre energy, in a statement. “This agreement will help us meet our energy consumption needs while also contributing to our broader sustainability goals.”<h2>An industry-wide shift</h2>Google’s $3 billion deal with Brookfield is part of a broader industry trend among hyperscalers—companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta Platforms—that operate large-scale data centres and consume vast amounts of electricity. As the demand for cloud computing and AI applications continues to surge, these tech giants are facing mounting pressure to secure clean, reliable energy sources.The increasing reliance on AI, which requires massive amounts of data processing, has exacerbated the need for electricity. A report by the International Energy Agency (IEA) notes that electricity consumption from data centres is growing rapidly, driven by AI applications and other cloud computing needs. This demand has led to a shift in how tech companies approach their energy procurement.The trend toward hydropower is part of a broader effort to address energy shortages and sustainability concerns. While hydropower has not historically been the focal point for tech companies, it is now gaining attention as a potential solution. Microsoft, for example, has been using hydropower for its data centres for nearly a decade. Other companies, including DPO and Polar, are exploring hydropower for their new data centres, particularly in regions like Washington State and Norway.However, hydropower faces its own challenges. For one, it is often difficult to find new sites for hydroelectric dams, as most prime locations are already in use. In addition, building new hydro plants can take years, far longer than the typical two to three years required to build new data centres. The limited availability of hydropower resources has led many companies to secure existing plants or work with utilities to upgrade and expand their capacity.<h2>Navigating power challenges</h2>As data centres continue to consume more power, the competition for renewable energy sources is only intensifying. While hydropower is an attractive option, it remains a niche solution that may not be able to meet the growing demand in the long term. Experts suggest that the shift to hydropower may only be a stopgap measure, with other energy sources like natural gas, nuclear, and advanced renewables playing a larger role in the future.Google’s deal with Brookfield is a significant step, not only for the company but for the entire tech industry. The partnership highlights the growing importance of sustainable energy solutions in powering the next generation of AI and cloud services.

Google aims to secure up to 3 gigawatts of hydropower for its energy-hungry data centres from Brookfield in the coming years. The move comes amid a broader industry push to tackle the growing energy demand driven by AI and cloud computing.

In a significant move that solidifies its commitment to clean energy, Google has announced a historic $3 billion deal with Brookfield Asset Management, securing up to 3 gigawatts of hydropower for its energy-hungry data centres. The deal marks one of the largest corporate clean power contracts in the world and is poised to play a significant role in helping Google meet its ambitious sustainability goals. The partnership centres on two hydroelectric plants in Pennsylvania: the Holtwood and Safe Harbor plants, located roughly 75 miles southwest of Philadelphia. These facilities, with a combined capacity of 670 megawatts, will provide power to Google’s data centres for the next 20 years. However, this is just the beginning. The framework agreement between Google and Brookfield sets the stage for a potential expansion, as Google aims to secure up to 3,000 megawatts of hydropower from Brookfield in the coming years, spanning the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, and Gulf Coast regions. Google’s move comes amid a broader push by the tech industry to tackle the rapidly growing demand for energy driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing. As part of its clean energy push, Google has already made notable investments in other renewable energy sources, such as geothermal and advanced nuclear power. This latest deal underscores the company’s dedication to a 24/7 clean energy model, where energy consumption from its data centres aligns with the clean power generated at any given time. Why hydropower? The decision to turn to hydropower is not random. Google’s data centres, which power billions of online services daily, have long been major consumers of energy, and finding reliable, clean energy sources has become critical. While solar and wind power are popular renewable sources, they come with limitations due to their intermittent nature. Wind and solar energy are dependent on weather conditions, making them less reliable in meeting the constant demand from hyperscale data centres. Hydropower, in contrast, offers a reliable and continuous source of energy. Unlike wind and solar, hydropower is a dispatchable resource, meaning it can be produced on demand by releasing stored water from reservoirs. This ability to provide consistent, round-the-clock power makes hydropower an ideal energy source for data centres, which require uninterrupted access to electricity. Hydropower also provides the added benefit of being carbon-free, helping Google advance its sustainability goals. The company has long been committed to sourcing 100 per cent renewable energy for its global operations, and this latest deal with Brookfield will support that effort. As part of the agreement, Google is collaborating with Brookfield to upgrade and relicense its two Pennsylvania plants, ensuring they remain operational for decades to come. “The collaboration with Brookfield is a significant step forward in ensuring a clean energy supply for our data centres, especially in the PJM region where we operate,” said Amanda Peterson Corio, Google's head of data centre energy, in a statement. “This agreement will help us meet our energy consumption needs while also contributing to our broader sustainability goals.” An industry-wide shift Google’s $3 billion deal with Brookfield is part of a broader industry trend among hyperscalers—companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta Platforms—that operate large-scale data centres and consume vast amounts of electricity. As the demand for cloud computing and AI applications continues to surge, these tech giants are facing mounting pressure to secure clean, reliable energy sources. The increasing reliance on AI, which requires massive amounts of data processing, has exacerbated the need for electricity. A report by the International Energy Agency (IEA) notes that electricity consumption from data centres is growing rapidly, driven by AI applications and other cloud computing needs. This demand has led to a shift in how tech companies approach their energy procurement. The trend toward hydropower is part of a broader effort to address energy shortages and sustainability concerns. While hydropower has not historically been the focal point for tech companies, it is now gaining attention as a potential solution. Microsoft, for example, has been using hydropower for its data centres for nearly a decade. Other companies, including DPO and Polar, are exploring hydropower for their new data centres, particularly in regions like Washington State and Norway. However, hydropower faces its own challenges. For one, it is often difficult to find new sites for hydroelectric dams, as most prime locations are already in use. In addition, building new hydro plants can take years, far longer than the typical two to three years required to build new data centres. The limited availability of hydropower resources has led many companies to secure existing plants or work with utilities to upgrade and expand their capacity. Navigating power challenges As data centres continue to consume more power, the competition for renewable energy sources is only intensifying. While hydropower is an attractive option, it remains a niche solution that may not be able to meet the growing demand in the long term. Experts suggest that the shift to hydropower may only be a stopgap measure, with other energy sources like natural gas, nuclear, and advanced renewables playing a larger role in the future. Google’s deal with Brookfield is a significant step, not only for the company but for the entire tech industry. The partnership highlights the growing importance of sustainable energy solutions in powering the next generation of AI and cloud services.

Google aims to secure up to 3 gigawatts of hydropower for its energy-hungry data centres from Brookfield in the coming years. The move comes amid a broader industry push to tackle the growing energy demand driven by AI and cloud computing.

Google inks $3 billion hydropower deal, but why? Is it a trend in the making?

Norway's Ambassador to India May-Elin Stener has said that her country can help India get more green energy and "support the very ambitious goals that the Indian government has". Norway is a world leader in green energy, being Europe's largest producer of hydropower, expanding its onshore wind capacity, and giving a significant push to Green Hydrogen.&nbsp;

Speaking at WION Podcast, to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal, she said, "when it comes to the climate change goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, it is very clear for us in Norway, and should be also in a lot of other countries, that if India does not reach its goals, the world will not reach its goals".

The ambassador listed the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) as a milestone for Norway. European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is an intergovernmental organization which has Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and &nbsp;Switzerland as its members.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-norway-grants-98-of-indian-exports-zero-customs-duties-under-tepa-698883">Also read:&nbsp;Exclusive: Norway grants 98% of Indian exports zero customs duties under TEPA</a>

Stener&nbsp;pointed out that Norway will ratify the trade agreement soon. She explained that because of this, "a lot of goods will get easier access, and they will be cheaper", giving the example of Norwegian Solomon.&nbsp;

She also spoke about her country's foreign policy, Norwegian&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;Jonas Gahr Støre and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;meeting in Brazil, among other things. Stener&nbsp;is the first foreign envoy to be at the WION Podcast. Here's the full interview:

Sidhant Sibal: My first question to you is about the India-Norway relationship if you can give us a broader picture...

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: I would say the Indian-Norway relationship is really growing. It's getting more important by the day. And this year, 2024 has been a really important year. We managed to conclude the Free Trade Agreement, the trade and economic partnership agreement, in March, together with the other EFTA countries. And now we are just looking into the ratification in Norway, which will happen in the next couple of months and that is the cornerstone, a milestone for us, as a very good basis for our businesses.

Sidhant Sibal: You talked about EFTA, if you can talk about in detail, about the positive aspects in terms of how it will help not only the EFTA country but also India?&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Norway Chairwoman of the standing committee speaks to WION | Exclusive Interview

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Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it will help the EFTA countries, and I can talk about my own country, Norway, in the sense that a lot of goods will get easier access, and they will be cheaper. For example, Norwegian salmon, there is already quite a high toll on that, which will go down to zero in a few years. So Norwegian salmon will be cheaper, and that will also cause a great interest from the Norwegian seafood industry to look to India as a market. And mentioning market India is, and will be, the biggest consumer market in the world. So, of course, for us as Norway, this is of tremendous importance. And also, that's why I'm saying Norwegian interests, Norwegian businesses have a lot of interest. The agreement, though, also, I think, is beneficial for India, when, when it eases a trade between our countries and some of the goods that are going to Norway will also be cheaper to export. But first and foremost, I think this treaty is the first one to have an investment chapter, and that investment chapter is very important, and it's important for us in Norway and Norwegian businesses who want to invest in India. But I also think it's a very big advantage for India to have those measures on the investment.

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of investments we can expect from Norway, especially from your sovereign wealth fund to India and any domains which you expect.&nbsp;

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: The Norwegian sovereign wealth fund will not be included by the agreement, because we're talking about foreign direct investments here. So I can say about the sovereign wealth fund, though they are also growing in India, and their investments are growing, and probably that will also continue. But on the foreign direct investment, those areas that are of priority for Norway and India in our relationship, particularly on green energy, and also on the maritime sector and the maritime industries. We have very particular technologies in Norway, because we have been an energy superpower, because we found oil and gas in the 1970s and we're now transforming it all to green energy, and we're using a lot of the same technologies, and we are quite cutting edge there. And also we have been a big shipping nation, and therefore we also have quite a good technology to contribute in that area as well. And then coming into India, this is offering something that we can't really find anywhere else, it's the scale that is here. So therefore these companies, with these cutting-edge technologies, will be really interested in investing. And that we see also is of interest here in India, in your growth, in your growth stories.

Sidhant Sibal: Norwegian technology and India scale, they can come together, and Norway is a leader when it comes to technology, clean energy. How can Norway help India in meeting its goal, especially when it comes to climate change goals?&nbsp;

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, when it comes to the climate change goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, it is very clear for us in Norway, and should be also in a lot of other countries, that if India does not reach its goals, the world will not reach its goals. And this is important to stop the climate change that we are seeing and to keep our planet. So, you know that scheme, this is something that we should all worry about, and I think it's really important that we succeed and that we actually also will be able to work on these issues together and to get more green energy into India and to support the very ambitious goals that the Indian government has.&nbsp; 
 
Sidhant Sibal: We have a platform called the India Nordic Summit. It happened in Stockholm. Then it happened in Copenhagen. Is expected to happen in your country. How do you see this platform in furthering the goals between India and the Nordic region as a whole, which you're part of?

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, the Nordic Region, we are composed of countries. We have a lot of the same history. We work very closely together in the Nordic Council, some of us share more or less the same language, and it's a platform where we are cooperating a lot in many areas. Still combined, we are population-wise, quite small compared to India, but the economies of the Nordic countries combined, we are between 10 to 12 in the world. So we do have a lot to offer. And I think also India sees that, because we are also getting the interest back. And as you have been saying, there have been two Nordic India summits, and we are now looking into having the next one in Oslo quite soon.

Sidhant Sibal: Now many of our viewers will be watching this interview. If you can explain the Norwegian foreign policy to them. What is the Norwegian policy all about, if you can, perhaps, in a concise format, tell this to our viewers.

Ambassador May-Elin Stener:&nbsp;Well, the Nordic well, we are a country far up in the north. We are a small country. We are neighbouring Russia in the north, this is, of course, important points in our foreign policy, in the current climate that we see, we are staunch supporters of Ukraine, and we are condemning the full-scale invasion of Russia, because we see that this is wrong. A country cannot invade that it's not allowed according to international law. But also for us as a neighbouring country, we of course, feel this even more closely than we also had a very, very close relations in the Middle East, some of the viewers might remember, if they are old enough, the Oslo Accords from 1993 that was brokered by Norway between Israel and the Palestinians. And the most important in those Accords, maybe, were the two-state solutions. And it does not look very good for the two-state solution these days, but we are still working on trying to get the parties in the Middle East together so that we are able to see that we still think that there is no other way to two-state&nbsp;solution between. So those are two important pillars. When we look at the world how it is today, we already spoke about the climate change and working, working in the framework of the United Nations on the Paris Agreement, and discussing and seeing how we can get action to solve those problems and to look towards the cleaner future for everyone and below the 1.5% Celsius goal is, of course, also very important. So those are some issues important in our foreign policy. Apart from that, also, of course, we want to see ourselves, as a bridge leader. We've had, I mentioned the Middle East, but we've also had, had roles in peace, building and mediating roles between parties in conflicts in many places in the world, and that's an experience that we have used, and are also used in the world today, which is quite full of conflicts.

Sidhant Sibal: It's a very volatile world. But ma'am, my last question to you is about India's role. How does Norway seize India which is a large country in Asia, a democratic country, and a country which is rising very fast?

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it's exactly that we see India as a country that is rising very fast. The economy is now the fifth largest in the world, and it's also the fastest-growing economy. You soon looking to be the third largest, which makes you a big power in itself, but we also see that the way India is conducting its foreign policy, it's growing in importance, and it's a country that a lot of other countries, including mine, are looking to and want to have close relations with, for sure.

Sidhant Sibal: In addition to this, both the prime ministers met in Brazil at the G20 Summit. Anything specific that came out, we saw the Indian read-out talking about the various sectors. Anything from the Norwegian side. What do we expect, or what was the purpose of that very important meeting?

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it was indeed a very important meeting, and it was really good to see that the two prime ministers met, my prime minister with Prime Minister Modi, and as I understand, they had a very good meeting and discussed precisely those issues that have been mentioned here, because they are peers in our bilateral relationship, particularly how to trade and economic partnership agreement implemented and to work on that. They also reconfirmed the importance of the Nordic India summit that will happen in Oslo next time. So it definitely just showed how important this relationship clearly is.

Norway's Ambassador to India May-Elin Stener has said that her country can help India get more green energy and "support the very ambitious goals that the Indian government has".

Norway's Ambassador to India May-Elin Stener has said that her country can help India get more green energy and "support the very ambitious goals that the Indian government has". Norway is a world leader in green energy, being Europe's largest producer of hydropower, expanding its onshore wind capacity, and giving a significant push to Green Hydrogen. Speaking at WION Podcast, to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal, she said, "when it comes to the climate change goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, it is very clear for us in Norway, and should be also in a lot of other countries, that if India does not reach its goals, the world will not reach its goals". The ambassador listed the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) as a milestone for Norway. European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is an intergovernmental organization which has Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland as its members. Also read: Exclusive: Norway grants 98% of Indian exports zero customs duties under TEPA Stener pointed out that Norway will ratify the trade agreement soon. She explained that because of this, "a lot of goods will get easier access, and they will be cheaper", giving the example of Norwegian Solomon. She also spoke about her country's foreign policy, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting in Brazil, among other things. Stener is the first foreign envoy to be at the WION Podcast. Here's the full interview: Sidhant Sibal: My first question to you is about the India-Norway relationship if you can give us a broader picture... Ambassador May-Elin Stener: I would say the Indian-Norway relationship is really growing. It's getting more important by the day. And this year, 2024 has been a really important year. We managed to conclude the Free Trade Agreement, the trade and economic partnership agreement, in March, together with the other EFTA countries. And now we are just looking into the ratification in Norway, which will happen in the next couple of months and that is the cornerstone, a milestone for us, as a very good basis for our businesses. Sidhant Sibal: You talked about EFTA, if you can talk about in detail, about the positive aspects in terms of how it will help not only the EFTA country but also India? Watch | Norway Chairwoman of the standing committee speaks to WION | Exclusive Interview × Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it will help the EFTA countries, and I can talk about my own country, Norway, in the sense that a lot of goods will get easier access, and they will be cheaper. For example, Norwegian salmon, there is already quite a high toll on that, which will go down to zero in a few years. So Norwegian salmon will be cheaper, and that will also cause a great interest from the Norwegian seafood industry to look to India as a market. And mentioning market India is, and will be, the biggest consumer market in the world. So, of course, for us as Norway, this is of tremendous importance. And also, that's why I'm saying Norwegian interests, Norwegian businesses have a lot of interest. The agreement, though, also, I think, is beneficial for India, when, when it eases a trade between our countries and some of the goods that are going to Norway will also be cheaper to export. But first and foremost, I think this treaty is the first one to have an investment chapter, and that investment chapter is very important, and it's important for us in Norway and Norwegian businesses who want to invest in India. But I also think it's a very big advantage for India to have those measures on the investment. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of investments we can expect from Norway, especially from your sovereign wealth fund to India and any domains which you expect. Ambassador May-Elin Stener: The Norwegian sovereign wealth fund will not be included by the agreement, because we're talking about foreign direct investments here. So I can say about the sovereign wealth fund, though they are also growing in India, and their investments are growing, and probably that will also continue. But on the foreign direct investment, those areas that are of priority for Norway and India in our relationship, particularly on green energy, and also on the maritime sector and the maritime industries. We have very particular technologies in Norway, because we have been an energy superpower, because we found oil and gas in the 1970s and we're now transforming it all to green energy, and we're using a lot of the same technologies, and we are quite cutting edge there. And also we have been a big shipping nation, and therefore we also have quite a good technology to contribute in that area as well. And then coming into India, this is offering something that we can't really find anywhere else, it's the scale that is here. So therefore these companies, with these cutting-edge technologies, will be really interested in investing. And that we see also is of interest here in India, in your growth, in your growth stories. Sidhant Sibal: Norwegian technology and India scale, they can come together, and Norway is a leader when it comes to technology, clean energy. How can Norway help India in meeting its goal, especially when it comes to climate change goals? Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, when it comes to the climate change goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, it is very clear for us in Norway, and should be also in a lot of other countries, that if India does not reach its goals, the world will not reach its goals. And this is important to stop the climate change that we are seeing and to keep our planet. So, you know that scheme, this is something that we should all worry about, and I think it's really important that we succeed and that we actually also will be able to work on these issues together and to get more green energy into India and to support the very ambitious goals that the Indian government has. Sidhant Sibal: We have a platform called the India Nordic Summit. It happened in Stockholm. Then it happened in Copenhagen. Is expected to happen in your country. How do you see this platform in furthering the goals between India and the Nordic region as a whole, which you're part of? Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, the Nordic Region, we are composed of countries. We have a lot of the same history. We work very closely together in the Nordic Council, some of us share more or less the same language, and it's a platform where we are cooperating a lot in many areas. Still combined, we are population-wise, quite small compared to India, but the economies of the Nordic countries combined, we are between 10 to 12 in the world. So we do have a lot to offer. And I think also India sees that, because we are also getting the interest back. And as you have been saying, there have been two Nordic India summits, and we are now looking into having the next one in Oslo quite soon. Sidhant Sibal: Now many of our viewers will be watching this interview. If you can explain the Norwegian foreign policy to them. What is the Norwegian policy all about, if you can, perhaps, in a concise format, tell this to our viewers. Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, the Nordic well, we are a country far up in the north. We are a small country. We are neighbouring Russia in the north, this is, of course, important points in our foreign policy, in the current climate that we see, we are staunch supporters of Ukraine, and we are condemning the full-scale invasion of Russia, because we see that this is wrong. A country cannot invade that it's not allowed according to international law. But also for us as a neighbouring country, we of course, feel this even more closely than we also had a very, very close relations in the Middle East, some of the viewers might remember, if they are old enough, the Oslo Accords from 1993 that was brokered by Norway between Israel and the Palestinians. And the most important in those Accords, maybe, were the two-state solutions. And it does not look very good for the two-state solution these days, but we are still working on trying to get the parties in the Middle East together so that we are able to see that we still think that there is no other way to two-state solution between. So those are two important pillars. When we look at the world how it is today, we already spoke about the climate change and working, working in the framework of the United Nations on the Paris Agreement, and discussing and seeing how we can get action to solve those problems and to look towards the cleaner future for everyone and below the 1.5% Celsius goal is, of course, also very important. So those are some issues important in our foreign policy. Apart from that, also, of course, we want to see ourselves, as a bridge leader. We've had, I mentioned the Middle East, but we've also had, had roles in peace, building and mediating roles between parties in conflicts in many places in the world, and that's an experience that we have used, and are also used in the world today, which is quite full of conflicts. Sidhant Sibal: It's a very volatile world. But ma'am, my last question to you is about India's role. How does Norway seize India which is a large country in Asia, a democratic country, and a country which is rising very fast? Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it's exactly that we see India as a country that is rising very fast. The economy is now the fifth largest in the world, and it's also the fastest-growing economy. You soon looking to be the third largest, which makes you a big power in itself, but we also see that the way India is conducting its foreign policy, it's growing in importance, and it's a country that a lot of other countries, including mine, are looking to and want to have close relations with, for sure. Sidhant Sibal: In addition to this, both the prime ministers met in Brazil at the G20 Summit. Anything specific that came out, we saw the Indian read-out talking about the various sectors. Anything from the Norwegian side. What do we expect, or what was the purpose of that very important meeting? Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it was indeed a very important meeting, and it was really good to see that the two prime ministers met, my prime minister with Prime Minister Modi, and as I understand, they had a very good meeting and discussed precisely those issues that have been mentioned here, because they are peers in our bilateral relationship, particularly how to trade and economic partnership agreement implemented and to work on that. They also reconfirmed the importance of the Nordic India summit that will happen in Oslo next time. So it definitely just showed how important this relationship clearly is.

Norway ready to boost India's green energy goals: Ambassador Stener

Nepal on Sunday decided to allow India's Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) Limited to develop a second hydropower project in the country. At present SJVN is developing a 900-MW Arun -III hydroelectric project, a run-of-river located on the Arun River in Eastern Nepal, scheduled to be completed in 2024.

A meeting of the Investment Board Nepal (IBN) chaired by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda approved the draft project development agreement (PDA) to be signed with India's state-owned SJVN to develop the 669-megawatt (MW) Lower Arun Hydropower project in eastern Nepal, an official statement said.

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The development comes days before Prime Minister Prachanda's visit to India starting Wednesday. The draft needs to be endorsed by the Council of Ministers before it gets implemented.

The previous meeting of the IBN had approved Rs 92.68 billion investment for the development of the project.

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The development of this 669-MW transformative project will prove to be a milestone for the socio-economic development of the country, according to the statement by the IBN.

The SJVN has formed a local company, Lower Arun Power Development Company, in Nepal.

The Lower Arun project located in the Sankhuwasabha and Bhojpur districts will not have any reservoir or dam and will be a tailrace development of Arun-III, which will mean water re-enters the river for the Lower Arun project.

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This is the third project undertaken, all through negotiation windows, on the Arun River after the 900 MW Arun-III and 695 MW Arun-IV hydroelectricity projects.

The three projects will generate nearly 2,300 MW of electricity from the river in Sankhuwasabha district, The Kathmandu Post newspaper reported.

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Nepal on Sunday decided to allow India's Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) Limited to develop a second hydropower project in the country. At present SJVN is developing a 900-MW Arun -III hydroelectric project, a run-of-river located on the Arun River in Eastern Nepal, scheduled to be completed in 2024.

Nepal on Sunday decided to allow India's Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) Limited to develop a second hydropower project in the country. At present SJVN is developing a 900-MW Arun -III hydroelectric project, a run-of-river located on the Arun River in Eastern Nepal, scheduled to be completed in 2024. A meeting of the Investment Board Nepal (IBN) chaired by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda approved the draft project development agreement (PDA) to be signed with India's state-owned SJVN to develop the 669-megawatt (MW) Lower Arun Hydropower project in eastern Nepal, an official statement said. Also Read | Russia launches ‘massive drone attack’ on eve of Kyiv founding day, one dead The development comes days before Prime Minister Prachanda's visit to India starting Wednesday. The draft needs to be endorsed by the Council of Ministers before it gets implemented. The previous meeting of the IBN had approved Rs 92.68 billion investment for the development of the project. Also Read | Belarus President Lukashenko rushed to hospital after meeting with Putin: Report The development of this 669-MW transformative project will prove to be a milestone for the socio-economic development of the country, according to the statement by the IBN. The SJVN has formed a local company, Lower Arun Power Development Company, in Nepal. The Lower Arun project located in the Sankhuwasabha and Bhojpur districts will not have any reservoir or dam and will be a tailrace development of Arun-III, which will mean water re-enters the river for the Lower Arun project. Watch | Turkey Elections 2023: Erdogan back for another five years × This is the third project undertaken, all through negotiation windows, on the Arun River after the 900 MW Arun-III and 695 MW Arun-IV hydroelectricity projects. The three projects will generate nearly 2,300 MW of electricity from the river in Sankhuwasabha district, The Kathmandu Post newspaper reported. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India secures approval for second hydropower project in Nepal, strengthening bilateral energy cooperation

Almost as far as the eye can see trash spreads out across the southern end of the majestic lake kivu lapping against the dam that crosses it, it lies on the border between the democratic republic of the congo and Rwanda. However, the ocean of plastic now threatens to clog up the dam's hydroelectric plant.

Plastic pollution clogs hydropower dam in DR Congo

The government of India and Nepal have reached an agreement to form a joint task force on a proposal to construct a hydropower project with joint investment of both nations.&nbsp;

The agreement was reached at the ninth meeting of the Nepal-India energy secretary-level joint steering committee here today, said Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Chiranjibi Chataut.&nbsp;

As per the agreement, a joint technical team will be formed to carry out the study as per the proposal made by India.

A press release issued by the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation state that Nepal and India have agreed to form a joint technical team consisting of three members from each country to construct a large hydropower project.&nbsp;

The meeting discussed the existing transmission lines between the two countries, under construction and proposed interstate transmission lines, Arun III hydropower and transmission line, and interstate power trade.

The two sides have agreed to increase the volume of electricity to be traded through the 400kV Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur cross-border transmission line to 600MW from the current 350MW.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepals-parliament-postponed-for-the-second-time-anti-mcc-protest-continues-456417">Also read |&nbsp;Nepal’s parliament postponed for the second time, anti-MCC protest continues</a>

During the meeting, there was an agreement to increase the volume of power to be traded through this transmission line once the 400kV Hetauda-Dhalkebar-Inaruwa transmission line is completed. It is expected to be complete by December 2023.

In addition, the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and the Power Grid Corporation of India would set up a joint company by April 2022 for the construction of the cross-border New Butwal Gorakhpur transmission line.&nbsp;

The 400 KV transmission line will span 140 kilometres (20 km in Nepali territory and the remaining 120 km in Indian territory).&nbsp; 
The government of Nepal has to manage the budget to construct the project on its side.

Exporting more power to India before the onset of the monsoon was one of the agenda items of the joint secretary-level joint working group and secretary-level joint steering committee meetings between the two countries held on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively, in Kathmandu.

This comes at a time when Nepal is caught in a dilemma over the Millennium Challenge Corporation-Nepal Compact. It is a $500 million US grant to Nepal to be used in the construction of electricity transmission lines and road maintenance.

Major political parties, including those in the ruling coalition, are divided over whether to accept the US grant, which has yet to be ratified by parliament.&nbsp;

Hundreds of anti-MCC protesters broke through barricades and clashed with police. Police have used teargas, water cannon and batons to stop the protesters.&nbsp;

The government of India and Nepal have reached an agreement to form a joint task force on a proposal to construct a hydropower project with joint investment of both nations.

The government of India and Nepal have reached an agreement to form a joint task force on a proposal to construct a hydropower project with joint investment of both nations. The agreement was reached at the ninth meeting of the Nepal-India energy secretary-level joint steering committee here today, said Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Chiranjibi Chataut. As per the agreement, a joint technical team will be formed to carry out the study as per the proposal made by India. A press release issued by the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation state that Nepal and India have agreed to form a joint technical team consisting of three members from each country to construct a large hydropower project. The meeting discussed the existing transmission lines between the two countries, under construction and proposed interstate transmission lines, Arun III hydropower and transmission line, and interstate power trade. The two sides have agreed to increase the volume of electricity to be traded through the 400kV Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur cross-border transmission line to 600MW from the current 350MW. Also read | Nepal’s parliament postponed for the second time, anti-MCC protest continues During the meeting, there was an agreement to increase the volume of power to be traded through this transmission line once the 400kV Hetauda-Dhalkebar-Inaruwa transmission line is completed. It is expected to be complete by December 2023. In addition, the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and the Power Grid Corporation of India would set up a joint company by April 2022 for the construction of the cross-border New Butwal Gorakhpur transmission line. The 400 KV transmission line will span 140 kilometres (20 km in Nepali territory and the remaining 120 km in Indian territory). The government of Nepal has to manage the budget to construct the project on its side. Exporting more power to India before the onset of the monsoon was one of the agenda items of the joint secretary-level joint working group and secretary-level joint steering committee meetings between the two countries held on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively, in Kathmandu. This comes at a time when Nepal is caught in a dilemma over the Millennium Challenge Corporation-Nepal Compact. It is a $500 million US grant to Nepal to be used in the construction of electricity transmission lines and road maintenance. Major political parties, including those in the ruling coalition, are divided over whether to accept the US grant, which has yet to be ratified by parliament. Hundreds of anti-MCC protesters broke through barricades and clashed with police. Police have used teargas, water cannon and batons to stop the protesters.

India, Nepal to construct new hydropower project with joint investment

Reservoirs in Brazil's Sao Paulo are drying up. The area which is dependent on hydroelectric powerplants is now facing massive power outages. The government of the country is also mulling to take dire steps to conserve energy. WION brings you a report.

Brazil: Drought hits hydropower plants, Bolsonaro asks people to cut down on power consumption

Doklam, RuPay card, Mangdechhu hydropower in focus as Modi lands in Bhutan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day visit to Bhutan from Saturday morning with the focus being on space, hydropower projects and Ru Pay cards. Calling Bhutan a "trusted friend and neighbour", PM Modi in a pre-departure statement said, "India and Bhutan enjoy excellent bilateral ties exemplified by our extensive development partnership, mutually beneficial hydro-power co-operation, and strong trade and economic linkages.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day visit to Bhutan from Saturday morning with the focus being on space, hydropower projects and Ru Pay cards. Calling Bhutan a "trusted friend and neighbour", PM Modi in a pre-departure statement said, "India and Bhutan enjoy excellent bilateral ties exemplified by our extensive development partnership, mutually beneficial hydro-power co-operation, and strong trade and economic linkages." The visit scheduled from August 17 to 18 will be the second visit of PM Modi to the South Asian country. Bhutan was PM's first foreign destination after assuming office in 2014. The Prime Minister is expected to leave by 10 am on Saturday. The itinerary of the prime minister's official tour includes a visit to Simtokha Dzong, a monastery built by Ngawang Namgyal who unified Bhutan. He will then receive audiences with Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the fourth King of Bhutan Jigme Singye Wangchuck and hold talks with Prime Minister of Bhutan, Dr. Lotay Tshering. The PM will meet all members of the Bhutanese Parliament, deliver a major address at the Royal University of Bhutan and will also visit the national monument. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "PM is looking forward to his visit to Bhutan. He has a very strong personal relationship with both majesties the king, his majesty the fourth king as well as the Prime Minister Dr Lotay who also graced the swearing-in the ceremony of PM in May. We are confident as a result of this visit our unique relationship with Bhutan will be further strengthened. " Asked about Thimpu's view on India abrogating article 370, Foreign Secretary said, "Bhutan has shown understanding that this is a matter of India's internal affairs" Focus on space, hydroelectric, Rupay card Prime minister during his visit will inaugurate Mangdechhu hydropower, a ground station build by ISRO at the cost of Rs 7 crore in Thimpu which will help Bhutan use the transponder in the south Asian satellite and roll out RuPay card. The ground station will help in disaster management and communication service by Bhutan broadcasting service. Built-in the Trongsa Dzongkhag district, 720MW Mangdechhu hydroelectric plant is the fourth power project which is in joint commission with Bhutan. It has four units, three of which have already been commissioned. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale called it the most effective hydro project in South Asia. It is on 70 per cent loan and 30 per cent grant and New Delhi will also sign the Mangdechhu power purchase agreement. It will also start discussions on Sankosh multipurpose hydroelectric project which will generate 250 MW electricity. Bhutan exports three fourth of power generated, which is surplus, to India and uses rest for domestic consumption. Bhutan will be the second country to roll out RuPay card. The card will be rolled out in two phases, the first phase by Indian banks and the second by Bhutanese banks. The trials happened in March. China: Dragon in the room This will be the first visit by PM Modi to Bhutan after the Doklam crisis of 2017. The crisis saw a two-month-long standoff between Indian and Chinese army in Bhutanese territory of Doklam which is claimed by Beijing but is part of Bhutan "We will review defence and security and that includes situation along the India-Bhutan boundary," Foreign Secretary said. Asked if China plans to open a representative office, Gohakle said, "We enjoy a relation with Bhutan in which neither side will surprise each other. We are confident that we will be taken into confidence in anything that the royal government of Bhutan does. The MEA in its release, talking about the ties between the two countries said, "India and Bhutan share a special and time-tested partnership" which are "anchored in mutual understanding and respect and reinforced by a shared cultural heritage and strong people to people links." New Bhutanese Prime Minister Lyonchhen (Dr.) Lotay Tshering was on a state visit to India in December 2018. India during that incoming visit announced Rs 5000 crore for Bhutan's twefth five-year plan and the first tranche has already been given. Earlier this year, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited the South Asian nation, his first visit abroad after taking charge. During PM's visit to Bhutan in 2014, he addressed the Joint Session of Bhutanese Parliament, laid the foundation stone of the 600 MW Kholongchhu Hydropower Project and inaugurated the Supreme Court building which was constructed with the assistance of the Government of India.

With focus on space, hydropower and RuPay cards; PM Modi to leave for Bhutan on Saturday

&nbsp;Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to protest against the Neelum-Jhelum hydropower plant and construction of dams in the region. People shouted anti-Pakistan slogans, saying that the project is meant to serve the interests of other provinces, especially Punjab.

Locals said that the water of Neelum and Jhelum rivers has been diverted for the plant which has triggered a water scarcity in the region, affecting their day-to-day lives.

The people have also claimed that they have not been given a fair share of power generated from the hydropower plant.

The Neelum-Jhelum hydropower plant became functional in August 2018 and has a capacity of producing around 1,500 MW of electricity.

However, the adequate power supply is not there in PoK which requires only 400 MW-500 MW for its needs.

Of late, a massive water crisis has emerged in PoK, which has either rendered people homeless or forced them to live in uninhabitable conditions.

Apprehensive of serious ecological changes in the region, people are demanding an immediate retraction of Pakistan`s plans to construct more dams on Neelum and Jhelum rivers.

Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to protest against the Neelum-Jhelum hydropower plant and construction of dams in the region.

Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to protest against the Neelum-Jhelum hydropower plant and construction of dams in the region. People shouted anti-Pakistan slogans, saying that the project is meant to serve the interests of other provinces, especially Punjab. Locals said that the water of Neelum and Jhelum rivers has been diverted for the plant which has triggered a water scarcity in the region, affecting their day-to-day lives. The people have also claimed that they have not been given a fair share of power generated from the hydropower plant. The Neelum-Jhelum hydropower plant became functional in August 2018 and has a capacity of producing around 1,500 MW of electricity. However, the adequate power supply is not there in PoK which requires only 400 MW-500 MW for its needs. Of late, a massive water crisis has emerged in PoK, which has either rendered people homeless or forced them to live in uninhabitable conditions. Apprehensive of serious ecological changes in the region, people are demanding an immediate retraction of Pakistan`s plans to construct more dams on Neelum and Jhelum rivers.

Protest erupts against Neelum-Jhelum hydropower project in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir

At least one person was killed and 34 went missing as torrential rain pounded northern China, state media reported today. 
 
Heavy downpours struck Hebei province, which surrounds Beijing, causing all major rivers to breach their banks and damaging 11 dams and two hydropower stations, the official Xinhua news agency reported.&nbsp;Nearly 68,000 residents had been relocated as the provincial land resources bureau warned of flooding, landslides and mountain torrents, it said. 
 
Weather authorities in the province have issued their highest, or red, alert for rainstorms, the agency added.&nbsp;Beijing was also hit by the rainfall, with some roads submerged by water more than two metres deep, traffic delayed and some subway stations reporting leaks, the city&#39;s newspapers said. 
 
Torrential rain has already wreaked havoc in southern China this year, causing floods in several major cities including Wuhan in the central province of Hubei.&nbsp;Northern China is normally arid, but flooding is not rare during the summer monsoon season.&nbsp;In the summer of 2012 Beijing was lashed by the worst rains to hit the capital for more than 60 years and around 80 people were killed. 
 
(AFP)

Weather authorities in the province have issued their highest alert for rainstorms

At least one person was killed and 34 went missing as torrential rain pounded northern China, state media reported today. Heavy downpours struck Hebei province, which surrounds Beijing, causing all major rivers to breach their banks and damaging 11 dams and two hydropower stations, the official Xinhua news agency reported. Nearly 68,000 residents had been relocated as the provincial land resources bureau warned of flooding, landslides and mountain torrents, it said. Weather authorities in the province have issued their highest, or red, alert for rainstorms, the agency added. Beijing was also hit by the rainfall, with some roads submerged by water more than two metres deep, traffic delayed and some subway stations reporting leaks, the city's newspapers said. Torrential rain has already wreaked havoc in southern China this year, causing floods in several major cities including Wuhan in the central province of Hubei. Northern China is normally arid, but flooding is not rare during the summer monsoon season. In the summer of 2012 Beijing was lashed by the worst rains to hit the capital for more than 60 years and around 80 people were killed. (AFP)

Torrential rain in China leaves one dead, 34 missing

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