New Delhi, Oct. 1 -- The Union Cabinet approved the Green Energy Corridor Phase-III (GEC-III) scheme on Wednesday, a programme aimed at reinforcing India's Intra-State Transmission System (InSTS) so that it can evacuate up to 135 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy across states and Union territories. The total project outlay is Rs.1,86,405 crore, targeted for completion by FY 2032-33. Of this, Rs.1,36,378 crore is earmarked for InSTS development and Rs.50,000 crore for the 50 GWh of BESS. The Centre will contribute Rs.54,082 crore. The scheme also provides for 50 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of Battery Energy Storage Systems, to be deployed either at the premises of renewable energy developers and generators or at other locations considered important for grid flexibility. The government said this is needed because solar and wind power do not flow steadily. Often the power lines are too crowded to carry all the electricity being produced, so some clean energy goes to waste, particularly during peak solar hours, the government said. The scheme tackles this in two ways. First, it will strengthen the electricity networks inside states and Union territories so they can carry up to 135 GW of renewable energy. Second, it will set up battery storage systems, with a total capacity of 50 GWh. Battery storage addresses both problems by absorbing surplus generation when supply is abundant and discharging it during evening peaks or when solar output is unavailable. "India's power generation capacity is over 500 GW right now, of which 52% is renewable energy. There are not many nations that can claim this feat. India has a commitment towards environment that is consistent. We are taking steps to reduce fossil fuel dependence, pollution and increase environmental protection," said information and broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw at a media cabinet briefing in New Delhi....