Business

Adani Green Energy Aims for Net Water Positivity by FY2025-26

Published

1 year ago

March 17, 2025

Adani Green Energy, the largest renewable energy firm in India, announced on Sunday its commitment to achieving net water positivity by the fiscal year 2025-26, aiming to reduce its freshwater usage across all operations. The company has already attained water positivity at operational sites with capacities exceeding 200 MW in FY23 and plans to introduce robotic cleaning systems to eliminate the need for freshwater in solar module maintenance at new locations.

The renewable energy industry requires substantial water for activities such as maintaining solar panels. Adani Green Energy, which manages over 12.5 GW of operational assets, is at the forefront of water stewardship initiatives.

The company’s strategy for attaining water sustainability includes measures like rainwater harvesting, water conservation, and community engagement. It has successfully lowered its water use intensity and made contributions to replenishing water resources in water-stressed regions such as Khavda, Jaisalmer, and Kutch. Last year, their implementation of robotic cleaning saved approximately 347,310 kilolitres of water, equivalent to the consumption needs of 1.58 million households. Currently, about 43.5% of Adani Green Energy’s operational capacity has integrated robotic cleaning technology for photovoltaic (PV) modules.

“With the ISO 14001:2015 certification, Adani Green Energy has established a robust system to track and manage its water consumption. This achievement sets a strong foundation for our broader objective of attaining net water-positive status across all operational locations by FY2025-26,” the company stated.

The goal includes decreasing reliance on water for cleaning solar PV modules through the adoption of waterless robotic cleaning methods. As of FY24, 4,760 MW of its solar power plants—representing 43.5% of the total operational capacity—have successfully integrated this robotic cleaning technology.

To address drinking water needs without resorting to plastic bottles, Adani Green has introduced a technology that harvests water from the humidity in the air using eco-friendly methods. This innovative solution produces fresh and hygienic drinking water that meets international safety standards while minimizing plastic use and reducing carbon footprints.

“A proof-of-concept (POC) was carried out at our Solar Plant in Andhra Pradesh with a water generation capability of 100 liters per day, complemented by a water cooler. This initiative has resulted in significant savings with a payback period of five to six years, and the technology can be replicated after assessing its success,” the company reported.

The comprehensive project of pond rejuvenation aims to enhance groundwater recharge capacity and improve water levels. As a part of this initiative, Adani Green Energy has desilted and rejuvenated 35 ponds in FY24, resulting in improved water levels that have benefited over 36,000 residents in surrounding villages.

AGEL’s operational portfolio is certified as ‘water positive’ for plants with a capacity greater than 200 MW, ‘single-use plastic free’, and ‘zero waste-to-landfill’, underscoring the company’s dedication to fostering sustainable growth.

Business

Overseas Loans by Indian Firms See Sharp Decline

Published

24 hours ago

May 17, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business : Indian companies borrowed $5.43 billion from abroad in March, according to RBI data. This was 51% lower than March last year.

Experts said the weak rupee and high global interest rates made foreign loans less attractive for companies.

In the financial year 2025-26, India Inc raised nearly $43 billion through foreign borrowings. This was down from $61 billion in the previous year.

In March 2025, borrowings had crossed $11 billion due to large deals by companies like JSW Steel and Tata Semiconductor Manufacturing.

Companies are also avoiding overseas loans because hedging costs have become expensive during currency volatility.

The RBI reportedly discussed easing foreign borrowing rules and offering hedging support, but no final decision was taken.

Market experts said the ongoing West Asia conflict has increased uncertainty, making companies cautious about raising funds from abroad.

Business

Fuel Prices Hiked by Rs.3 per Litre across India

Published

3 days ago

May 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Petrol and diesel prices have been increased by Rs.3 per litre across the country from today. Oil marketing companies revised the rates due to the rise in global crude oil prices.

After the hike, petrol price in Bengaluru has reached Rs.106.17 per litre, while diesel now costs Rs.94.10 per litre.

The increase comes amid fluctuations in international crude oil prices and tensions in West Asia, including the Iran conflict. The fall in the value of the Indian rupee against the US dollar has also increased import costs.

The fuel price hike is expected to affect transportation and daily essentials. Transport charges for goods may rise, leading to higher prices of vegetables, fruits, milk, and other items. Bus, auto, and taxi fares may also increase.

Earlier, fuel prices were reduced before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In 2022, the Centre had also cut excise duty to control inflation after the Covid pandemic.

Business

Gold Prices Rise in Mangaluru; Demand for Ornaments Remains Strong

Published

2 weeks ago

May 4, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mangaluru: Gold prices in the coastal city of Mangaluru have been reported at high levels today. The rate for 24 karat gold (99.9% purity) stands at Rs.14,962 per gram. The price for 22 karat gold (91.6% purity) is Rs.13,715 per gram. Meanwhile, 18 karat gold (75% purity) is being sold at Rs.11,222 per gram.

Mangaluru is well known for its deep cultural connection with gold. The city has a long tradition of buying and wearing gold ornaments. This tradition continues strongly even today.

Local jewellers say that demand for gold remains steady despite high prices. Many people still prefer to invest in gold for safety and long-term value. Gold is also an important part of weddings and festivals in the region.

Apart from its love for seafood, Mangaluru is also famous for its gold market. The gold trade in the city has a long history and continues to grow.

Buyers are advised to check the latest rates before making a purchase. They can also use a gold rate calculator to get exact pricing based on weight and purity.

Experts say that gold prices may change depending on global market trends. Customers should stay updated and make careful decisions while buying gold.