145 MW Gird Connected Solar Plant Porject Report

Initial Environmental Examination
Project Number: 44932

August 2012
IND: 145 MW Grid-connected Solar Project
Prepared by Chattel Construction Private Limited
The initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed
herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff,
and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the “Term of Use” section of this
website.
Initial Environment Examination Report
Initial Environmental
Examination
25 MWp Chattel
Solar Power Project
August 2012
Prepared by
Chattel Construction Private Limited
The company hereby acknowledges that as per the mandate letter signed between company and Ernst & Young Pvt. Ltd. (EY) on
th
6 January 2012, EY has assisted the company in preparation of the Initial Environmental Examination Report based on data
and information provided by the company to EY.
Abbreviations
ADB - Asian Development Bank

CER - Certified Emission Reduction
CCPL - Chattel Construction Private Limited
EIA - Environment Impact Assessment
ESCA - Environment and Social Compliance Assessment
ESMMP - Environment and Social Mitigation and Monitoring Plan
GETCO - Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited
GPCB - Gujarat Pollution Control Board
GRC - Grievance Redressal Committee
GUVNL - Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited
IEE - Initial Environmental Examination
IFC - International Finance Corporation
NAAQS - National Ambient Air Quality Standards
Nallah - Drain or Stream
PPA - Power Purchase Agreement
PV - Photo Voltaic
SIPC - Salinity Ingress Prevention Circle
Standard Weights and Measures
ha (hectare) – 10,000 square meters

km (kilometer) – 1,000 meters
kV – kilovolt (1,000 Volts)
kW – kilowatt (1,000 Watts)
kWh – kilowatt-hour
MWp – Mega Watt Peak
MU – Million Units
Contents
Executive Summary ................................................................................................................... 6
Background ............................................................................................................................................... 6
Objectives ................................................................................................................................................. 6
Study Methodology................................................................................................................................... 6
Baseline Environmental Condition............................................................................................................ 6
Legal policies and institutional framework ............................................................................................... 7
Benefits due to Proposed Project ............................................................................................................. 7
Potential Environmental and Social Impacts ............................................................................................ 8
Conclusions ............................................................................................................................................... 9
CHAPTER 1: Introduction .........................................................................................................11
1.1 Background ....................................................................................................................................... 11
1.2 Need for the Project.......................................................................................................................... 12
1.3 Purpose/Objectives of IEE ................................................................................................................. 12
1.4 Methodology and approach of IEE ................................................................................................... 13
CHAPTER 2: Legal policies and institutional framework ...........................................................14
2.1 Regulatory Framework...................................................................................................................... 14
2.2 ADB’s Environmental and Social Assessment Framework ................................................................ 15
2.2.1 ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) ................................................................................. 15
2.2.2 ADB’s Gender and Development Policy (1998) ......................................................................... 16
2.2.3 ADB’s Social Protection Strategy (2001) .................................................................................... 17
2.2.4 The IFC Performance Standards................................................................................................. 17
CHAPTER 3: Project description ...............................................................................................18
3.1 Project Overview ............................................................................................................................... 18
3.2 Project location ................................................................................................................................. 18
3.3 Connectivity ...................................................................................................................................... 19
3.4 Access Road....................................................................................................................................... 19
3.5 Technical description ........................................................................................................................ 20
3.6 Land requirement ............................................................................................................................. 20
3.7 Water requirement ........................................................................................................................... 21
3.8 Waste water treatment and disposal system ................................................................................... 22
3.9 Power transmission line .................................................................................................................... 22
3.10 Project Implementation schedule................................................................................................... 24
3.11 CDM benefit .................................................................................................................................... 24
CHAPTER 4: Environmental and social baseline status ............................................................27
4.1 Physical resources ............................................................................................................................. 27
4.1.1 Topography ................................................................................................................................ 27
4.1.2 Geology ...................................................................................................................................... 27
4.1.3 Soil .............................................................................................................................................. 27
4.1.4 Land use ..................................................................................................................................... 27
4.1.5 Earthquake zone ........................................................................................................................ 28
4.1.6 Wind Zone .................................................................................................................................. 29
4.1.7 Climate ....................................................................................................................................... 29
4.1.8 Rainfall ....................................................................................................................................... 29
4.1.9 Water resources ......................................................................................................................... 30
4.1.10 Air Quality and Noise ............................................................................................................... 30
4.2 Ecological resources .......................................................................................................................... 30
4.3 Socio – economic status.................................................................................................................... 30
CHAPTER 5: Potential environmental and social impacts and their mitigation and monitoring
plan ...........................................................................................................................................33
5.1 Pre-Construction phase .................................................................................................................... 33
5.1.1 Acquisition of land ..................................................................................................................... 33
5.1.2 Temporary use of project land for storage of project equipments, materials, etc. .................. 33
5.1.3 Site Clearing and Levelling ......................................................................................................... 34
5.1.4 Establishment of labour camp ................................................................................................... 35
5.2 Construction phase ........................................................................................................................... 36
5.2.1 Construction of internal roads and development of other areas .............................................. 36
5.2.2 Movement of vehicles................................................................................................................ 37
5.2.3 Excavation and drilling ............................................................................................................... 37
5.2.4 Use of D.G sets ........................................................................................................................... 38
5.2.5 Storage of diesel......................................................................................................................... 38
5.2.6 Handling of broken solar panels ................................................................................................ 39
5.2.7 Handling of waste ...................................................................................................................... 39
5.2.8 Installation and operation of Concrete mixing machines .......................................................... 40
5.2.9 Construction labour management ............................................................................................. 41
5.3 Operation phase ............................................................................................................................... 41
5.3.1 Switchyard operation ................................................................................................................. 41
5.3.2 Use of groundwater resources................................................................................................... 42
5.4 Decommissioning phase ................................................................................................................... 42
5.4.1 Removal and disposal of Solar panels........................................................................................ 42
5.4.2 Restoration of area .................................................................................................................... 43
5.5 Budgetary estimates for implementing ESMMP: ............................................................................. 43
5.6 Organization Structure for Environmental management of project ................................................ 43
CHAPTER 6: Environmental Impact specific to construction of the transmission line ................46
CHAPTER 7: Analysis of Alternatives .......................................................................................49
CHAPTER 8: Grievance redressal mechanism .........................................................................51
CHAPTER 9: Consultation and Participation .............................................................................53
CHAPTER 10: Conclusion and Recommendations ...................................................................54
Appendix A: Environmental compliance audit report .................................................................55
1.1 Pre-Construction phase .................................................................................................................... 55
1.2 Construction phase ........................................................................................................................... 57
1.3 Decommissioning phase ................................................................................................................... 61
1.4 Applicable Environmental Laws, Regulations and Standards- Compliance Status ........................... 61
1.5 ADB’s Environmental and Social Assessment Framework ................................................................ 61
Photos: Chattel Site ..................................................................................................................64
Attachment 1: Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Record ...............................................................66
Attachment 2: Ambient Noise Monitoring Record ......................................................................67
Executive Summary
Background
Chattel Construction Private Limited (CCPL) was incorporated on June 22, 2010 to setup a 25
MWp solar photovoltaic power project at villages Kathada, Ahmedgadh and Savda, District
Surendranagar in the state of Gujarat (India). The project is implemented under the Solar Power
Policy 2009 of Gujarat. Multi Crystalline Silicon PV solar cells shall be used in the project to
generate electricity. CCPL (“the company”) has already signed a Power Purchase Agreement
(“PPA”) for 25 years with Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (“GUVNL”) with permission from
Government of Gujarat, for sale of power generated from the project.
Objectives
The objectives of the proposed IEE study include:

► Identify the major issues that may arise as a result of proposed works on biophysical, socio-
economic and cultural environment of the project area;
► Recommend site specific environmental impact mitigation measures, prepare and
implement environmental monitoring plan for the project, and
► Addressing the requirements of ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement and IFC Environment,
Health and Safety Guidelines.
Study Methodology
The findings and conclusions of the report are based on the analysis of the information collected
during field visits in the project area and data collected through secondary sources such as
Forest Atlas and published GOIs data from 2001 population census statistics data, as well as
relevant project documentation received from regulatory authorities such as Gujarat Energy
Transmission Corporation Limited (GETCO), Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), and other
Government Departments.
Baseline Environmental Condition
The project site is not located in or near a sensitive ecosystem. Review of the secondary
literature and site visits confirmed the absence of unique or ecologically significant flora and
fauna. The nearest wildlife sanctuaries, the Wild Ass Sanctuary and Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
are more than 50 km from the project site. (Source:
http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=1272, www.gujarat-
tourism.net/Nalsarovar_Sanctuary.htm)
The water requirement for the project is minimal. The main consumption of water in the project
is for cleaning of the solar modules with minimal requirement for domestic consumption. The
total water requirement at the project site is estimated to be about 13,000 litres per day.
The total land available for the Project’s solar power generation facility is 91.83 Hectares (ha).
The land acquired for the project is totally private land and has been purchased on a voluntary
basis (willing seller-willing buyer basis) from the land owners. The land purchased for the project
is classified as agriculture land but the fertility of the land has been degraded over a period of
time due to problem of salt water ingression in the area. (Source:
http://www.cspc.org.in/download/status_of_salt_affected_soils.pdf). As per the land owners, the
sale of land came as an opportunity to earn income from an otherwise unproductive land. The
payment provided against the land purchased has helped these farmers to find alternative land
in a more fertile area or start an alternate livelihood.
The solar power plant will be using the following associated facilities for the project: access
roads, transmission lines and sub-station. The project will utilize the existing village road; no
new roads will be built as part of this project. The length of the access road to the site from the
main road is around 200 meters. The power generated from the proposed solar power plant
would be evacuated through a 66KV transmission line to Patdi Sub-Station of GETCO, situated
about 7.6 km from the project site. The substation of GETCO is existing for more than 10 years.
There were no permanent or temporary inhabitants dwelling on the site as confirmed by

interviews with the local community/village residents during the site visit. Also, the land where
the Project’s solar power generation facility is being constructed is not owned, used, occupied,
or claimed as ancestral domain or asset of any tribal groups. The project is therefore expected
to be classified as category C for both involuntary resettlement and IPs.
Legal policies and institutional framework
This report has been prepared with reference to the ADB`s Safeguards Policy Statement (SPS)
that specifies safeguards requirements on applicable environment and social legislation.
MoEF in its Office Memorandum No. J-11013/41/2006-IA.II (I) dated 13th May, 2011 stated that
the Solar Photovoltaic Power Projects are not covered under the ambit of EIA Notification, 2006
and hence, no environmental clearance is required. Hence, the Solar Power PV Projects does
not require preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment Report and pursuing
Environmental Clearance from Central Government or State Level Environmental Impact
Assessment Authority. However, the project has either complied with or has taken steps to
ensure compliance with the other relevant national and local statutory regulations applicable on
the proposed project
Benefits due to Proposed Project
The proposed Project brings in multifold advantages. Not only will it produce clean, pollution
free energy, it will also generate employment opportunity to the people living in and around that
area. Thus, generation of allied employment and income generation activities will improve the
quality of life of the community.
CDM benefit
The project is expected to generate approximately 40757 CERs on an annual basis over the
next 10 years (crediting period).
Potential Environmental and Social Impacts
The IEE report comprises of baseline data on existing conditions on physical and biological
environment, and social environment together with the anticipated environmental impacts and
proposed mitigation measures. Field surveys were undertaken to assess physical and biological
environment and data collection from secondary sources has been done to support the findings
of the field survey. The field studies were supported by review of secondary data.
All the issues such as acquisition of land, ecology, influx of people during construction phase,
shelter and sanitation, the equipments and machineries, environmental health and safety,
occupational hazard, social and environment management and monitoring plan have been dealt
in detail in the respective sections of the Report. However these are briefly enumerated below to
have a quick assessment of the situation.
Environmental Level of Reason Proposed Mitigation Measures

Parameter Impact
Air Impact Low ► Insignificant air emissions ► Sprinkling of water
during the construction phase ► Proper handling of excavated soil
while no emissions are
envisaged from the
process/operation as it’s a
solar based power project
Water Low ► Plant will require a very low ► In the case of wet cleaning of solar
amount of water for cleaning panels, the amount of water needed
of modules and domestic is insignificant
consumption. ► CCPL water requirement will
► No hazardous effluent is only be 13,000 litres per day and
envisaged to be discharged will be sourced from borewells at
from the plant that may have site
an impact. ► Domestic effluent shall be
discharged in soak pits.
► Workers shall be encouraged to
maintain cleanliness at the project
site
Land Medium ► Impact of change in land use ► CSR activity will be undertaken by
the Company based on community
consultations
► Giving priority in jobs to the local
people with first priority given to the
project affected family
Noise Low ► No sources of noise within the
project area except the diesel DG Sets with acoustic enclosures to be
generator (DG) sets which used at the project site during the
would be used only during the construction stage to maintain the noise
construction phase of the level within permissible limits.
project and would be
acoustically enclosed
► As no sensitive locations in the
vicinity of the project site.
Ecosystem Low ► As no ecologically sensitive Although there is no significant
place lies within 10 km radius vegetation cover within the study
from the project site area, plantation activities will be carried
out.
Socio-economic Low ► The project will not in any way A Resettlement Framework will be
affect the dignity, human adopted by the Company to mitigate
rights, livelihood systems and involuntary resettlement impacts (if
culture of the residents of the any).
village. Moreover, the lands Construction labour will be housed
where the project’s solar on temporary construction camps
power generation facility are specially developed for this purpose
being constructed are not with all basic amenities.
owned, used, occupied, or
claimed as ancestral domain
or asset of any tribal groups.
► The peak labour population is

approximately 650-700
laborers for three months
during the construction phase
and may have an impact on
the social fabric of the area
surrounding the project.
However, this impact is
envisaged to be insignificant
due to the following reasons:
► Temporary labour
colonies, equipped with
basic amenities, will be
provided
► The impact is temporary in
nature as it is restricted to
the construction phase of
the project. After
construction phase, the
areas acquired by labour
colonies shall be reverted
to the status at the
preconstruction phase.
Therefore, conflict of the

migrating labour with
locals will not take place
Conclusions
The IEE study of the proposed PV based Solar power project indicates that the benefits from
the implementation of the proposed solar power project are significant and long term in nature.
The study also establishes that the adverse impacts, if any, can be easily mitigated or avoided.
The proposed Solar PV project falls under ‘Category-B’ as per ADB’s Environmental
Categorization due to limited adverse environmental impacts and these are limited to site
specific, largely reversible and can be readily addressed through mitigation measures.
The Environmental Compliance Audit Report attached as Appendix A determines the project’s
compliance with respect to the ADB Safeguard Policies and defined monitoring and mitigation
plan.
CHAPTER 1: Introduction
1.1 Background
Chattel Construction Private Limited (CCPL) was incorporated on June 22, 2010 to setup a 25
MWp solar photovoltaic power project at villages Kathada, Ahmedgadh and Savda, District
Surendranagar in the state of Gujarat (India). The project is implemented under the Solar Power
Policy 2009 of Gujarat. Multi Crystalline Silicon PV solar cells shall be used in the project to
generate electricity. Chattel Construction Private Limited (“the company”) has already signed a
PPA for 25 years with Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL) with permission from
Government of Gujarat, for sale of power generated from the project. The plant is under
construction and expected to be complete by the month of September 2012.
.
Table.1: Project details
SI. No Particulars Descriptions
1 Project site Chattel
2 Village Name Kathada, Ahmedgadh and Savda
3 District Name Surendranagar
4 Name of the state Gujarat
5 Latitude 23°15’58.8” (North)
6 Longitude 71°46’42.9” (East)
7 Road Accessibility Road connectivity via Ahmedabad
8 Nearest Airport Ahmedabad
9 Nearest City Ahmedabad
10 Land available (Hectares) 91.83
11 Water requirement (LPD) 13,000
12 Annual Global Irradiance 2015

(kWh/m2)
13 Type of PV Module Multi Crystalline
14 Proposed Capacity (MW) 25 MWp
15 Capacities of modules proposed The multi crystalline solar PV module of 230

(Wp) Wp capacity
16 Total no of PV modules (Number) 105192
17 Inverter model Bonfiglioli RPS TL 1220 PCU (3 phase,330V

Ac O/p)
18 Annual electricity supplied to grid 42891.460

(MWh)
19 Annual Plant Load factor (%) 19.59
20 Project Cost (Million INR) 2955.47
1.2 Need for the Project
Fast economic growth of the state of Gujarat has resulted in increase in electricity consumption
by the industrial and commercial sectors. With the current available capacity, Gujarat is not in a
position to meet its requirement either in terms of energy requirement or peak capacity
requirement. Energy requirements of the Gujarat state has increased from 53693 MU in FY
2001-02 to 70412 MU in FY 2009-10 with an energy shortfall of 3149 MU in FY 2009-10.
The Electricity Act 2003 stipulates minimum percentage of energy to be derived out of
renewable energy sources which shall be binding on all states. Also the Gujarat Electricity
Regulatory Commission has made it mandatory for distribution licensees in the state to
purchase a fixed percentage of their total power procurement through renewable energy
sources, both solar and non solar.
1.3 Purpose/Objectives of IEE
The purpose of conducting IEE is to provide information about the general environmental
settings of the project area, identify impacts of the project activities on bio-physical, socio-
economic and cultural environment of the project, recommend site specific environmental
mitigation measures, prepare and implement environmental monitoring plan for project area and
to make sure that IEE addresses the requirements of the following:
► ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement, July 2009
► Relevant host country laws, regulations, applicable treaties and agreements
► IFC Environment, Health and Safety Guidelines for Electric Power Transmission and
Distribution, April 2007
► IFC Environment, Health and Safety General Guidelines, April 2007
The assessment of the project has been carried out for both positive and negative impacts. It is
expected that the adoption of green power generation technology will not have any significant
adverse impact on the environment. The project, apart from generating clean power will also
carry associated socio-economic benefits for the local community.
1.4 Methodology and approach of IEE
The following activities were undertaken for the purpose of conducting IEE:
► Data collection from secondary sources such as Forest Atlas and published GOIs data from
2001 population census statistics data, as well as from authorities such as Gujarat Energy
Transmission Corporation Limited (GETCO), Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), and
other Government Departments.
► Preparation of checklist for collecting project related information against applicable

guidelines
► Review of national and local laws / regulations and procedures relating to land acquisition,
resettlement and rehabilitation etc.
► Review of land allocation documents, permits and other relevant documents
► Field visits to collect data relevant to the study area
► Interviews on a sample basis with the following stakeholders:

► Employees at the site
► Land owners
► Contract labour including their family members staying at the labour camps
► Local community people around the site
CHAPTER 2: Legal policies and institutional framework
Due to ever-increasing demand for energy, the Government of India is taking up concerted
efforts to meet energy requirements by lowering the demand-supply gap and strategically
developing energy security of the country. India has formulated strategies to explore the
potential of all renewable energy resources like hydro, wind and solar along with biomass.
There are a number of drivers which are attracting investment for utilization of the solar energy
to produce electricity. Some of these are highlighted below:
► Government of India has announced Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission which
envisages setting up of Solar Power Projects of 20,000MW capacity by 2022.
► State Regulatory Commissions have specified a percentage of the total purchases to be

made from non-conventional energy sources (Renewable Purchase Obligation).
► The Government of Gujarat, in order to promote grid connected solar energy generation,
has come out with Solar Power Policy-2009 which is operational up to 31.04.2014. The
Government of Gujarat has allotted 716 MW of Solar Power projects to 34 national and
international project developers against 500 MW.
► There are a number of benefits like reduced dependence on fossil fuels, flexible in terms of
location and least impact on environment. Moreover, there is a huge unexplored potential in
terms of solar radiance available in the state of Gujarat.
In view of the above, the 25 MWp Solar Power Project of CCPL being implemented in the state
of Gujarat is in line with the Indian government’s policies around promotion of solar energy
projects to provide clean and sustainable energy for the nation.
2.1 Regulatory Framework
This section provides a brief summary of India's relevant national environmental legislation.
Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) is the nodal agency for drafting the new
environmental legislations and giving the Environmental Clearance (EC) to the projects.
MoEF in its Office Memorandum No. J-11013/41/2006-IA.II (I) dated 13th May, 2011 stated that
the Solar Photovoltaic Power Projects are not covered under the ambit of EIA Notification, 2006
and hence, no environmental clearance is required. Hence, the Solar Power PV Project does
not require preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment Report and pursuing
Environmental Clearance from Central Government or State Level Environmental Impact
Assessment Authority.
For the Gujarat State, the State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and
the State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) were constituted vide the MoEF, GOI,
Notification No. S.O.948 (E) dated 12-06-2007 and the Gujarat State, Forests and Environment
Dept. Resolution No. ENV/10.2006/176/P dated 25/07/2007. In addition, the Gujarat State
Pollution Control Board's guidelines for project proponents apply to all state projects.
Apart from the above, other relevant national and local statutory regulations that are to be
followed by proposed project are summarized below:
► The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

► The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
► The Environment Protection Act, 1986, Rules there under (with amendments)
► The Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000
► The Indian Forest Act, 1927 as amended
► Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001
► National Environmental Appellate Authority Act 1997
► The Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972
► Noise Pollution (Prevention & Control) Rules 2000
► Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling and Tran-boundary movement) Rules, 2009
► Solar Power Policy-2009 of Gujarat
► Land Acquisition Act, 1894 and its subsequent amendment
► Minimum Wages Act, 1948
► Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986
► Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970
► National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy, 2007
► Factories Act, 1948
► Workers Compensation Act, 1923
2.2 ADB’s Environmental and Social Assessment Framework

This report has been prepared with reference to ADB`s Safeguards Policy Statement (SPS) that
specifies environmental and social safeguards requirements to the proposed project.
2.2.1 ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009)
ADB’s safeguard policies (SR) as per the Safeguard Policy Statement of 2009 are generally
understood to be operational policies that seek to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse
environmental and social impacts. The policy framework consists of three operational policies
on the environment, Indigenous people and involuntary settlement. All the three safeguard
policies involve a structured process of impact assessment, planning and mitigation to address
adverse environmental and social effects of projects throughout the project cycle.
SR1 on the environment requires that environment must be considered at all stages of the
project cycle from project identification through implementation. This section provides a detailed
description of the environmental assessment and review process for project loans in terms of
activities that take place during the project cycle. The environmental assessment requirements
depend on the environment category (either A, B, C or FI). A proposed project is classified as
category A if it is likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are irreversible,
diverse or unprecedented. A proposed project is classified as category B if its potential adverse
environmental impacts are less adverse and often reversible through mitigation. A proposed
project is classified as category C if it is likely to have minimal or no adverse environmental
impacts. A proposed project is classified as category FI if it involves investment of ADB funds
through a financial intermediary.
As per the SPS (2009), the CCPL Solar project is likely to fall under the environmental category
“B” project.
SR 2 on Involuntary Resettlement requires that all impacts (physical and economic

displacement) brought about by land acquisition be mitigated properly following the principle of
replacement value. The objectives are to avoid involuntary resettlement wherever possible; to
minimize involuntary resettlement by exploring project and design alternatives; to enhance, or at
least restore, the livelihoods of all displaced persons in real terms relative to pre-project levels;
and to improve the standards of living of the displaced poor and other vulnerable groups. SR 2
discusses the objectives, scope of application, and underscores the requirements for
undertaking the social impact assessment and resettlement planning process, preparing social
impact assessment reports and resettlement planning documents, exploring negotiated land
acquisition, disclosing information and engaging in consultations, establishing a grievance
mechanism, and resettlement monitoring and reporting.
In order for the Project to meet the requirements of SR 2, a Social Safeguard Compliance Audit
report would be prepared covering the land acquisition process for the solar power plant site
through the private land owners on a willing seller-willing buyer mode. If there would be any
involuntary resettlement impacts, a resettlement plan will be prepared based on the following
principles:
► Any disruption with regard to human habitation and areas of cultural significance (if any) to
be avoided
► Compensation for temporarily affected assets (if any) to be based on replacement rates and
shall be paid prior to initiation of the project
► Meaningful consultations with affected people in the issues of land acquisition, or loss of
livelihood, if any, shall be conducted
► Employment opportunities to be provided to project affected people and local villagers

during project construction activities
► Establish a grievance redressal mechanism to receive and facilitate resolution of the

concerns of affected persons (if any)
SR 3 on Indigenous Peoples require that the Indigenous people are identified and if present,
they should benefit from the development projects and the project should avoid or mitigate
potentially adverse effects on indigenous people caused by the Project.
A survey would be conducted of the project site and the areas in the vicinity to identify if there
are any project affected families from the declared scheduled tribes or other designated tribal
communities. The Company will explore to the maximum extent possible alternative project
designs to avoid negative impacts on relocation of ST (if any) that will result in adverse impacts
on their identity, culture, and customary livelihoods.
2.2.2 ADB’s Gender and Development Policy (1998)
ADB Policy on Gender and Development (GAD) requires projects to consider gender issues in
all aspects of ADB operations, accompanied by efforts to encourage women’s participation in
the decision-making process in development activities. In this project, the GAD policy will be
taken into consideration during the planning of community development programmes in the
nearby villages.
2.2.3 ADB’s Social Protection Strategy (2001)
The Social Protection Strategy requires that projects comply with applicable labour laws, and
take the following measures to comply with the core labour standards for the ADB financed
portion of the Project:
a) Carry out activities consistent with the intent of ensuring legally permissible equal opportunity
fair treatment and non discrimination in relation to recruitment and hiring, compensation,
working conditions and terms of employment for its workers (including prohibiting any form of
discrimination against women during hiring and providing equal work for equal pay for men
and women engaged by the Borrower);
b) Not restrict its workers from developing a legally permissible means of expressing their
grievances and protecting their rights regarding working conditions and terms of employment;
c) Engage contractors and other providers of goods and services:
i. who do not employ child labour or forced labour;
ii. who have appropriate management systems that will allow them to operate in a manner
which is consistent with the intent of (a) ensuring legally permissible equal opportunity and
fair treatment and non discrimination for their workers, and (b) not restricting their workers
from developing a legally permissible means of expressing their grievances and protecting
their rights regarding working conditions and terms of employment; and whose
subcontracts contain provisions which are consistent with paragraphs (i) and (ii).
The Company shall develop HR policies and procedures applicable for employees including
contract workers to ensure compliance with ADB’s Social Protection Strategy and applicable
labour laws.
2.2.4 The IFC Performance Standards
The IFC Performance Standards apply to private sector projects and provide project participants
with instruments to structure, design, construct and manage the operations of projects in an
environmentally and socially acceptable manner, while providing measures to avoid or mitigate
adverse environmental and social impacts resulting from the projects. These Performance
Standards are intended to focus on outcomes rather than process, thereby stressing the
implementation of sound environmental and social management systems that achieve desired
outcomes, including the mitigation of adverse impacts.
The following Performance Standards are applicable to the project:
 Social & Environmental Assessment and Management Systems

 Labour and Working Conditions
 Community Health and Safety
 Land Acquisition and Involuntary Resettlement
The proposed practices to be adopted at the project site to ensure compliance with the IFC
standards have been discussed in the following chapters.
CHAPTER 3: Project description
3.1 Project Overview
The project involves setting up of a 25 MWp Solar PV Power Project, at villages Kathada,
Ahmedgadh and Savda, District Surendranagar, in the state of Gujarat, India. The Company
has already signed a PPA for 25 years with Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL) with
permission from Government of Gujarat. The power generated from the proposed solar power
plant would be evacuated through a 66KV transmission line to Patdi Sub-Station of GETCO.
The Patdi substation is not shared with any other entity. The project is under construction and
scheduled to be commissioned by end of September 2012.
3.2 Project location
The project is located at 23°15’58.8”North altitude and 71°46’42.9” East longitudes. The site is
located in Kathada, Ahmedgadh and Savda villages in Surendranagar District in the state of
Gujarat, India. The surface topography is almost flat. Hence, limited site preparation/leveling
activity is needed to make the land flat as per the requirements of solar PV power plant. The
entire area is shadow free as there are no shading elements like mountains, large sand dunes,
etc on the site. Figure 1 and 2 depicts the map of the region indicating the project location.
Figure 1: District map of Gujarat and Surendranagar district marking the project location (Source: Detailed Project Report
and www.tcindia.com)
Figure 2: Satellite view of village Zainabad- Prominent village in the project area
(Surendranagar), Gujarat
3.3 Connectivity
The selected project location has well established connectivity and accessibility through road,
rail, air and port.
Air : Nearest airport from the location is Ahmedabad which is located around 100 km
from the site.
Rail : Viramgaon is the nearest railway station, located at a distance of 35 km from the
project site.
Road : The project is easily approachable from the main state highway.
3.4 Access Road
The project will utilize the existing village road; no new roads will be built as part of this project.
The length of the access road to the site from the main road is around 200 metres (m). The
company plans to construct a 6 m wide road inside the plant for heavy vehicle movement and
around 3 m wide road along the boundary wall for the movement of light vehicle.
Figure 3: Photographs showing the existing access roads leading to the site
3.5 Technical description
Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaic (PV) will be used in the proposed project for generating electrical
power by converting solar radiation into direct current. This phenomenon takes place due to the
photovoltaic effect exhibited by the semiconductors.
The selected location for the proposed project lies in “hot and dry” climate zone of India. The
instantaneous ambient temperature over the location reaches more than 45OC in summer;
however the intensity of solar radiation is also very high. From the land type, meteorological
study and annual behavior of solar radiation over the location near village Zainabad,
Surendranagar, Gujarat, the Multi-crystalline solar PV technology has been identified as the
most feasible technology.
Solar PV Module: The Multi-Crystalline Silicon solar PV Module of 230 Wp capacity

manufactured by one of the world’s largest solar PV modules manufacturer i.e. Trina Solar and
LDK have been selected for setting up the 25 MWp power plant.
Inverter: 800 kW AC capacity inverter of world’s leading inverter manufacturer (Bonfiglioli) has
been selected for the analysis. The cumulative capacity of the inverters is 25 MW AC.
Solar PV Array: It is proposed that there shall be 31 independent solar PV arrays of 800 kW
capacities. Each array will be connected to an 800kW inverter and control unit independently.
This 800 kW array will be a series parallel combination of modules to be arranged.
3.6 Land requirement
The land requirement for the Project’s Solar Power Plant depends upon the technology
deployed, conversion efficiency and solar radiation incident in the Project location. 91.83
Hectares of land is available for the 25 MWp Solar PV Project. The site development work has
to be carried out on proposed locations to make it suitable for installation of solar PV plant. The
area break-up is provided below:
Table 2: Project Area break-up details
Particulars Area in hectare
Total plant area 91.83
PV module area 57.87
Balance of plant 1.21
Open area 32.74
Table 3: Land Ownership Status
Use of land Private Land Govt. Land Forest Land Total

Total Project 91.83 Nil Nil 91.83
Area
Acquisition Total land 91.83
Status available for the
project
The land acquired for the project site is totally private land and has been purchased on a
voluntary basis (willing seller-willing buyer basis) from the land owners. A third party (land
arranger) was appointed by the Company for helping in the purchase of land for the project.
3.7 Water requirement
The water requirement for the project is minimal. The main consumption of water in the project
is for cleaning of the solar modules with minimal requirement for domestic usage. The total
water requirement at the project site is about 13,000 litres per day.
Table.4: Water requirement

Particulars Data values
Water Consumption Per MW (Crystalline Silicon ) required for

Cleaning for Module 500 Litres /day
Water Consumption for domestic usage construction phase 500 Litres / day
Total water usage for Chattel project (25MWp) 13,000 Litres /day
During construction, water would be sourced locally from nearby villages. The water
requirement during the operational phase would be sourced from bore wells at site.
CCPL will make efforts to conserve water through optimal utilization during the operation phase
of the project.
3.8 Waste water treatment and disposal system
Water is required for the cleaning purpose of solar PV modules to remove accumulated dust.
The water required for the cleaning purpose is minimal and whatever minimal water is
discharged through the cleaning process is absorbed in the ground. Also, water discharged in
the process does not include any hazardous chemical or material. For storm water drainage
during rainy season, an internal drain has been constructed connecting to the natural
government pond located adjacent to the site.
Another source of waste water is from basic sanitation facilities provided to the workers at the
labour camp and site office. Soak-pits would be constructed at the project site for the collection
of waste water generated from the labour camps and site office. During operation phase of the
project, waste water generated from the domestic purposes would be discharged into the soak-
pits.
3.9 Power transmission line
The power generated from the proposed solar power plant would be evacuated through a 66kV
transmission line to Patdi Sub-Station of GETCO, situated about 7.6 km from the project site.
As the project is planned under the Solar Power Policy (2009) of the state of Gujarat, and as per
the terms of Power Purchase Agreement, it is the responsibility of GETCO to arrange, provide
and maintain the power transmission evacuation facilities upto the 66 KV switchyard of the
project. However, in the interest of meeting the commissioning schedule for the project, it was
agreed between GETCO and the Company that the Company would manage the construction
of transmission lines under the overall supervision and approval of GETCO. To this effect, the
Company has awarded transmission line contract to contractors who are nominated and
approved by GETCO.
Under these contracts, the works have been executed by GETCO approved contractors and in
line with GETCO’s existing policies and frameworks. The construction of transmission is being
concluded and expected to be completed by September 2012
Sr. No. Aspect Description

1 Route Particulars
i) Length (KM) ( approx. ) 7.6 kms
ii) Land acquired for towers and corridor ROW Nil. Only permission for Right of Way
has been obtained from the affected
land owners.
iii) Land acquired for access roads along Nil
transmission corridor
iv) Width of RoW for transmission line 4 meter to 5 meter
v) Terrain Flat with gentle slope
Hilly/Plain Plain
Agriculture/Waste Land Agricultural Land : 65%
Govt. Waste Land : 35%
Wet/Marshy Nil
Estuarine Nil
Other type of land Yes (Dry land)
2 Environmental/Social Details
i) Name of District / District details (through Surendernagar district, Gujarat
which transmission line pass)
ii) Town/Village falling in corridor route The line is routed in such a way to
alignment (Nearby) avoid villages and fixed nature of
settlements
iii) House/residences within transmission line None
RoW
iv) Type of forest (if applicable): The transmission line does not pass
Reserve / Protected /Mangrove / Wild life through any Reserve / Protected
area /any other environment sensitive area /Mangrove / Wild life area /any other
environmentally sensitive area
v) Type of Fauna and Flora noticed along No endangered species of fauna or
corridor route; presence of any endangered flora are present
species
vi) Historical or cultural monuments affected None
vii) Ground clearance of the transmission line 10 m after sag
3 Interference with other utilities
i) Railway Nil
ii) Other Transmission Line Corridors Nil
intercepting the project line route
iii) River Crossing Nil
iv) Road Crossing The transmission line is crossing road
near Savda Village, Surendernagar
District of Gujarat
3.10 Project Implementation schedule
An implementation schedule, outlining the sequence of major activities and the time required for
engineering, construction, installation and commissioning of the 25 MWp solar PV power plant
is provided below. The solar plant is scheduled to be commissioned by end of September 2012.
Table.5: Implementation schedule of project
3.11 CDM benefit
In 1997, Kyoto Protocol (“Protocol”) linked to United Nations’ Framework Convention on Climate
Change resolved to reduce the greenhouse gases (GHGs) responsible for global warming. As
an effort to minimize the global warming, Protocol sets binding targets for thirty-seven
industrialized countries, five per-cent below GHG emission levels prevailing in 1990, between
2008 and 2012. The Protocol established three market-based mechanisms allowing developed
countries to meet the emission reduction targets.
Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) is one of the three project based mechanisms
formulated under the Protocol. CDM establishes a win-win situation for both developed
countries as well as developing countries.
As a part of the renewable energy source, solar power projects are eligible to generate (CERs)
under the approved small scale methodology (AMS ID). Crediting period of the CERs for the
projects could be a fixed 10 year crediting period or a variable crediting period of 7 years not
extending beyond 3 such periods (21 years). Approach to calculate CERs required to be
followed under AMS ID is mentioned below
Baseline Information:
As per the AMS ID, Baseline Emission factor / Emission Intensity of the NEWNE grid is
calculated in line with Combined Margin (CM) approach providing weightages to Operating
Margin (OM) and Build Margin (BM) emission factors. Central Electricity Authority (CEA), a
statutory body incorporated under the Ministry of Power, Govt. of India, annually publishes
“Baseline Carbon Dioxide Emission Database”. As part of the Baseline Carbon Dioxide
Emission Database, OM and BM for both NEWNE and Southern grids are disclosed publicly.
For the most recent year, CEA in its publication “Baseline Carbon Dioxide Emission Database -
Version 07” has released the required data. The process of calculation of CM emission factor for
NEWNE grid is given below:
Table.6: Estimation of Baseline emission factor (tCO2/MWh)

Weighted
2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 Weight
Particulars Unit Average
Simple Operating 1.01 0.98 0.97 0.98 0.75

tCO2/MWh 0.74
Margin (incl. Imports)
421,802.63 458,043.08 476,986.72
Net generation GWh
Build Margin (not 0.86 0.86 0.25 0.21
tCO2/MWh
adjusted for imports)
Combined Margin
0.95
(incl. Imports) (Wt. tCO2/MWh
Avg of OM & BM)
Baseline Emissions 0.95
tCO2/MWh
Factor
Electricity Generation:
As mentioned in the document earlier, Project will operate at a load factor of 19.59% which in
turn is expected to generate 42,902.10 MWh (Net).
Baseline Emission (BE):
Project would generate approximately 42,902.10 MWh of electricity and displace equivalent
amount of electricity from the NEWNE grid which otherwise would have been generated by the
fossil fuel based power plants. According to the methodology AMS ID., Baseline Emissions of
the project is the CO2 emissions avoided by the project considering the grid is emission
intensive. An annual baseline emission for the project is outlined below:
Table.7: Emission reduction calculation (tCO2/MWh) )

Unit Value
Net electricity MWh 42,902.10
Combined margin tCO2/MWh 0.9523
Baseline emissions tCO2 40757
Emission reductions (ERs):
Eligible CERs is the difference between Baseline Emission, Project Emission and Leakage of
the Project. Project Emissions and Leakages are attributed to the onsite emissions due to the
construction and operation of the project. Since the project is a renewable energy project with
no on-site combustion of fossil fuel, project emissions and leakage are considered nil.
Therefore, the annual emission reduction eligible for the project are equivalent to annual
baseline emission computed above.
The annual emission reductions for the entire crediting period of 10 years are expected to be
40757 per annum.
CHAPTER 4: Environmental and social baseline status
The proposed site is located in Kathada, Ahmedgadh and Savda villages in Surendranagar
district of Gujarat State in India. Surendranagar district is one of the 26 districts of Gujarat state
in Western India. The district covers an area of 10,489 sq km. Surendranagar district has a hot
and dry climate and is a drought prone area. The baseline conditions of the region are as
follows:
4.1 Physical resources

4.1.1 Topography
Terrain is almost flat in the Project area with a gentle slope.
4.1.2 Geology
The district has mesozoic sediments. The major mineral deposits include bentonite, sub-
bituminous coal, fire clay and silica sand (Source: Geological Evolution and Mineral Resources
of Gujarat, http://www.gmdcltd.com/downloads/guj_evol_mineral1_01032011.pdf)
4.1.3 Soil
Surendranagar district has four types soil types (1) alluvial soil (2) sandy land of thin layer (3)
medium type black and loamy soil and (4) less fertile land with thin layer. As the land is able to
absorb moisture and is sticky, it is suitable for growing cotton. Soil in Dasada and Lakhtar is
saline. Soil in Dhrangadhra taluka is sandy. Loamy soil is found in some parts of Halvad and
Dhrangadra talukas. The land is less fertile. Soil in Wadhwan taluka is fertile and black. (Source:
Surendranagar District Panchayat,
http://surendranagardp.gujarat.gov.in/surendranagar/english/shakhao/statistic-branch/social-
economic-review2.htm)
4.1.4 Land use
The proposed project site is primarily agricultural land. Few shrub thickets were also observed
on the project site.
Figure 4: Photograph showing the Project Land
4.1.5 Earthquake zone
The proposed solar power project site falls in Seismic Zone – 3 that is classified as Moderate
Damage Risk Zone. Therefore, applicable seismic coefficients have been applied during the
detailed design and engineering phase of the project to withstand the impacts of earthquakes in
the area, if any. The following figure depicts the earthquake hazard risk zonation of the project
site.
Figure 5: Seismic Zoning Map of Gujarat state depicting project area in Zone III (Source:
Institute of Seismological Research (ISR), Government of Gujarat)
4.1.6 Wind Zone
The proposed project alignment falls under range where wind power density is between 200-
250W/sq.m
Figure 6: Wind Power Density Map of Gujarat State (Source: Centre for Wind Energy
Technology, Chennai, February 2010 sourced from Indian Windpower 2010 Directory)
4.1.7 Climate
Surendranagar is located in the hot and dry climatic zone of the country. It has a dry climate
with hot summer, a moderate winter and sparse rains. It is extremely hot during summer with
maximum temperature reaching upto 45OC and extremely cold during winter with a minimum
temperature reaching 1OC. (Source: Detailed project report)
4.1.8 Rainfall
Surendranagar district falls under drought prone area is prone to degradation due to soil salinity,
propinquity of Rann and soil erosion. The average rainfall is about 20-30 inches per season.
(Source: Detailed project report)
4.1.9 Water resources
Brahmani and Kankavati rivers pass through Halvad taluka. Brahmani river passes through
Chotila, Muli and Halvad talukas. Kulku Chandrabhage Umai and Kulku rivers pass through
Dhrangadhra taluka. Sukhbhadar river passes through Chotila, Sayla and Limbaid talukas.
Majority of the rivers of the district have their origins in Chotila hills.
(http://surendranagardp.gujarat.gov.in/surendranagar/english/shakhao/statistic-branch/social-
economic-review2.htm)
4.1.10 Air Quality and Noise
The Ambient Air Quality measurements along the project road and in the vicinity shall remain
within the limits of the revised National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Overall, the impact of
generated noise on the environment during construction period is insignificant, reversible and
localized in nature.
4.2 Ecological resources
The project site is not located in or near a sensitive ecosystem. Review of the secondary
literature and site visits confirmed the absence of unique or ecologically significant flora and
fauna. The nearest wildlife sanctuaries, the Wild Ass Sanctuary and Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
are more than 50 km from the project site.
Major agricultural crops
In Surendranagar district, the major source of livelihood for farmers includes rain-fed agriculture
and animal husbandry. Many farmers carry out animal husbandry as supportive activity. Popular
crops grown in Surendranagar District include oil seed crops like groundnut, cotton (desi) and
other food crops like gram, wheat, cumin, bajara, etc.
Due to saline ingression, the water availability has become an issue for agriculture and
prolonged exposure to saline water has affected the productivity of the land. (Source: Coastal
Salinity Prevention Cell, http://www.cspc.org.in/)
4.3 Socio – economic status
The total land acquired by CCPL falls within the villages namely Kathada, Savada and
Ahmedgadh in Surendranagar District, Gujarat State. Almost 70% of the villagers belong to the
Hindu community. The prominent castes include Darbari, and Bramhins.
Village-Kathada
Kathada is a mid-sized village located in the district of Surendranagar, Gujarat (India). It is

located at a distance of around 68 km from its District Main City Surendranagar and 86 km from
its State Capital Gandhinagar. As per the records of Census 2001, the village has a population
of about 1,766 persons living in around 354 households. Based on the population, it can be
noted that Kathada village has a healthy sex ratio. Most of the landowners from whom land was
purchased belonged to the Hindu community. Majority of the households rely on agriculture as
their main source of income in the village.
Population Details
Total Population 1,766

 Male Population 884
 Female Population 882
Village-Savda
Savda is a mid-sized village located in the district of Surendranagar, Gujarat (India). It is located
at a distance of around 58 km from its District Main City Surendranagar and 96 km from its
State Capital Gandhinagar. As per the records of Census 2001, the village has a population of
about 1,528 people living in around 302 households. Population wise, Savda village has a
healthy sex ratio. Land for the project site was purchased from only two landowners from the
village belonging to the Hindu and Muslim community respectively Majority of the households
rely on agriculture as their main source of income in the village.
Population Details
Total Population 1,528

Village- Ahmedgadh
Ahmedgadh is one of the smallest Villages in Dasada Taluk in Surendranagar District in Gujarat
State. Ahmedgadh is at a distance of 71 km from its District Main City Surendranagar and
around 84 km from its State Main City Gandhinagar. As per the records of Census 2001, the
village has a population of about 264 persons living in around 51households. Based on the
population, it can be noted that Ahmedgadh village has a healthy sex ratio. All the landowners
from whom land was purchased belonged to the Hindu community. Majority of the households
rely on agriculture as their main source of income in the village.
Population Details
Total Population 264

Demographic details of the Surendranagar District as per Census 2001:
Total Population 1,515,148

 Male Population 787,650
 Female Population 727,498
Total Workers
 Main Workers 512,038
 Marginal Workers 135,571
 Non-Workers 867,539
Literate Population 316172
 Literacy Rate 61.61
 Literate (Male) 487,094
 Literate (Female) 294,061
Number of SC (Largest Three)
 Mahyavansi etc. 83,092
 Bhambi etc. 51,060
 Bhangi etc. 14,289
Number of ST (Largest Three)
 Padhar 10,916
 Bhil etc 2,133
 General Tribes 363
CHAPTER 5: Potential environmental and social impacts and their

mitigation and monitoring plan
For developing the Environmental and Social Mitigation and Monitoring Plan (ESMMP) by the
company, the key physical, biological and socio-economic environmental components have
been identified. The impacts of various project activities on these environmental components
during pre-construction, construction, operation and decommissioning phase of the project
along with its mitigation action planned and monitoring frequency have been identified in this
section.
5.1 Pre-Construction phase
No significant environmental impacts are envisaged during the Pre-construction phase of the
project. The activities and their anticipated impacts during the pre-construction phase include
the following:
5.1.1 Acquisition of land

The land acquired for the project site is totally private land and has been purchased on a
voluntary basis (willing seller-willing buyer mode) from the land owners. The land acquired for
the project is agricultural land but was not much productive for the land owners because of
saltwater ingression in the area.
Potential impact Mitigation action plans Monitoring Responsibility

frequency
Loss of land, ► The Company shall conduct Continuous Land acquisition

livelihood, assets, meaningful consultations with throughout team and
etc affected people in the issues of the land HR/Admin team
land acquisition, or loss of
acquisition
livelihood, if any
► Compensation for land and any process
existing assets shall be
negotiated on the basis of
current Gujarat government
norms
► Avoid farming season wherever
possible for the acquisition
► Giving priority in jobs to the local
people with first priority given to
the project affected family
5.1.2 Temporary use of project land for storage of project equipments, materials, etc.
The mobilization of construction equipment and construction materials shall require space for
storage and parking of construction vehicles and equipment. Space shall also be required for
construction material storage yards, disposal sites, and labour camps to avoid environmental
impact and public inconvenience.
Potential impact Mitigation action plans Monitoring Responsibility

frequency
Impact on soil ► The equipment and construction Continuous EHS team

and water material shall be placed at least during pre-
500m away from water bodies construction
(if any), natural flow paths and
residential areas
► Equipment and materials shall
be stored at designated areas
with concrete flooring to avoid
any spillages which may lead to
soil or ground water
contamination.
5.1.3 Site Clearing and Levelling
Before initiating the construction work, clearing of the vegetation cover (shrubs, bushes etc., if
any) and levelling work shall be carried out. The site clearing work may lead to loss of
vegetation cover and topsoil to some extent in the plant area. It is proposed to construct line
drains for storm water collection to minimize the soil erosion. Apart from localized construction
impacts at the plant site, no adverse impacts on soil in the surrounding area are anticipated.
Also, as the proposed project land is flat, it is less susceptible to erosion.
Potential impact Mitigation action Monitoring Responsibility

frequency
Soil erosion ► Planning and designing the Continuous EHS team/Civil

development within the natural Department
constraints of the site;
► Minimizing the area of bare soil

exposed at one time (phased
grading);
► Avoiding the unnecessary clearing

of the site,
► The topsoil in non-built up areas

would be restored and such portions
of the site would be replanted with
appropriate plant species to stabilize
soil
Air pollution ► Water sprinkling shall be practiced Continuous EHS team
► Construction machinery shall be
properly maintained to minimize
exhaust emissions of CO, SPM and
Hydrocarbons.
5.1.4 Establishment of labour camp
Provision of civic amenities for construction labour and movement of truck drivers for
transporting construction material shall be provided at the site. The labour camps at the project
site will be temporary in nature and the human excreta will not be significant to cause
contamination of ground water. Adequate drinking water facilities, sanitary facilities and
drainage in the temporary sheds of the construction workers should be provided to avoid the
surface water pollution. Provision of adequate washing and toilet facilities should be made
obligatory. This should form an integral component in the planning stage before commencement
of construction activity.
Potential impact Mitigation action plans Monitoring Responsibilit

frequency y
Health Risks ► Provision of separate mobile Continuous EHS team and

toilet facilities for men and the Contractor
women shall be made.
► The domestic effluent shall be
properly disposed off in soak
pits.
► Contractor shall provide
garbage bins to all workers'
accommodation for dumping
wastes regularly in a hygienic
manner in the area
Chances of spread of ► Awareness programmes to be During Medical
sexually transmittable conducted regularly for workers Construction representative
diseases like AIDS on AIDS, and other health at site
related issues.
► Health checkup facilities for
employees and contract
workers
Water pollution ► Separate Mobile Toilet facilities Continuous Contractor
shall be made available for
male and female workers. The
domestic effluent shall be
properly disposed off in soak
pits.
Land contamination ► Basic sanitary facilities shall be Continuous Contractor
provided for the workers staying
at the labour camp and at the
project site.
► Dustbins shall be provided at
the camp by the contractor
5.2 Construction phase
The activities and their anticipated impacts during the construction phase included the following:
5.2.1 Construction of internal roads and development of other areas

Internal roads and boundary wall shall be constructed at the site. Foundations of the solar
panels, LT houses and switchyard shall also be constructed at the site.

frequency
Impact on Air ► Activities like digging and filling are Continuous EHS team
quality: The to be avoided in conditions of very
impact on air high wind and covers to be provided
for loose construction material at
quality will be for
construction site
short duration ► Construction equipments are to be Six monthly Contractor
and confined properly maintained to minimize
within the project exhaust emissions
boundary and is ► Water sprinkling shall be practiced Continuous Contractor
expected to be
negligible outside
the plant
boundaries. The
impact will,
however, be
reversible,
marginal and
temporary in
nature.
Impact on Water ► The construction will be more During EHS and Civil
quality related to mechanical fabrication, planning team
assembly and erection; hence the layout and
water requirements would be
construction
meager. Sanitation facilities (septic
tanks and soak pits) will be set-up work
for disposal of sanitary sewage
generated by the workforce. The
overall impact on water during
construction phase due to proposed
project is likely to be short term and
insignificant.
► Also, consumption of water should
be monitored and attempt should be
made to avoid spills / wastages and
ensure optimal consumption
5.2.2 Movement of vehicles
Vehicle movement shall prevail at the site to transfer the material and workers at site. Apart
from this, third party vehicles delivering the material and equipments shall also be there.

frequency
Air pollution ► All the vehicles entering the site to Continuous Contractor and
be asked to have updated PUC EHS team
(Pollution under control) certificate.
► Vehicle speed is to be restricted to
15km/hour at site
► Trucks/dumpers are to be covered
by tarpaulin sheets during off site
transportation of friable construction
materials and spoil
► Maintenance of vehicles shall be
carried out regularly
► Sprinkling of water shall be
practiced at the site
Soil ► Proper maintenance of vehicle shall Annually Contractor and
contamination be carried out to avoid any leakage O&M team
of oil or grease
Water ► Proper maintenance of vehicle shall Annually Contractor and
contamination be carried out to avoid any leakage O&M team
of oil or grease
Safety risks ► Vehicle speed is to be restricted to Continuous Contractor &
15km/hour at site EHS team
► Necessary safety trainings shall be
provided to the drivers of
construction vehicles for speed
restrictions and do’s and don’ts to
be followed during movement of
construction vehicles
5.2.3 Excavation and drilling
Excavation and drilling shall be carried out at site for the construction of foundation and base of
solar panels, LT houses, security rooms, admin building, switchyard, etc.
frequency
Occupational ► Provision of adequate personal Continuous EHS team /

health hazards protective equipment like safety Contractor and
helmets, face masks, safety shoes, Civil team
safety goggles etc. for the safety of
workers
► Training shall be imparted to
workers on occupational safety and
technical aspects of job undertaken
by them
Air pollution ► Water sprinkling at regular intervals Continuous Contractor
during excavation and drilling
activities shall be practiced to avoid
generation of dust.
Noise pollution ► Regular maintenance of plant Annually EHS team and
equipment shall be carried out Contractor
► Noise prone activities are to be Continuous
restricted to the extent possible
during night time.
► Personal protective equipments Continuous
shall be provided for workers
performing drilling at site
5.2.4 Use of D.G sets
D.G sets shall be used at site to provide electricity to labour camps in the night time. Also, in
case of non-availability of power from grid, D.G sets shall be used to provide electricity at the
site for construction activity.

frequency
Air pollution ► D.G set to be optimally used with At time of EHS team /
proper orientation and adequate installation Contractor
stack height
► Stack monitoring carried out on Annually
regular basis.
► Proper maintenance of the DG Set Annually
carried out on regular basis
Noise pollution ► Acoustic enclosures are to be Installation EHS team
provided with the D.G sets to period
minimize the noise levels
5.2.5 Storage of diesel

Diesel shall be stored on-site so as to ensure availability for D.G sets.
frequency
Soil ► A covered area shall be defined for Planning Stores in-charge

contamination storage of HSD with concrete stage and EHS team
flooring
Safety risks ► The diesel storage area shall not be Continuous Security guard
proximity of the labour camps and EHS team
► Inflammable substance shall not be
allowed at the project site.
5.2.6 Handling of broken solar panels
During transportation, handling, installation and operation, there is a chance of damage to the
solar PV panels. These damaged panels are required to be handled with care owing to
presence of traces of metals like cadmium, selenium, etc. and presence of recoverable
materials like glass, aluminum and semi-conductor materials.

frequency
Land ► Broken or damaged solar panels Continuous Site in-charge

contamination shall be immediately shifted to a and EHS team
designated area in scrap yard to
avoid any type of land
contamination. A photograph is to
be taken of the broken panel at the
site to cater to Insurance settlement
claims
► The storage area shall have a
concrete base
Health risks ► PPE shall be provided to the Continuous Site in-charge,
workers handling the broken solar EHS and HR
panels team
► The workers at site shall be
apprised about the potential health
risks associated with handling of
solar panels
5.2.7 Handling of waste
Both hazardous and non-hazardous waste shall be generated during the construction activity.
All the waste shall be properly managed in order to minimize the following potential impacts:
frequency
► Air Pollution ► The excavated material generated Continuous EHS team and
► Soil will be reused for site filling and Scrap
Contamination leveling operation to the maximum Committee
► Water
extent possible.
Contamination
► The scrap metal waste generated
from erection of structures and
related construction activities will be
collected and stored separately in a
stack yard and sold to local
recyclers.
► Food waste and recyclables viz.

paper, plastic, glass etc will be
properly segregated and stored in
designated waste bins/containers.
The recyclables will be periodically
sold to local recyclers while food
waste will be collected and
composted at site Within 90
► Hazardous waste viz. waste oil etc days
will be collected and stored in paved
and bunded area and subsequently
sold to authorized recyclers.
Necessary manifest for the same
will be maintained.
Safety risks ► Adequate PPE’s shall be identified Continuous EHS team

and provided to the workers at site.
5.2.8 Installation and operation of Concrete mixing machines
Concrete mixing machines shall be installed on temporary basis at the project site.

frequency
Noise pollution ► Noise shielding to be used where At the time Technical team
practicable and fixed noise sources of
to be acoustically treated for installation
example with silencers, acoustic
louvers and enclosures.
► Provision of make shift noise
barriers near high noise generating
equipment to minimize horizontal
propagation of noise
5.2.9 Construction labour management
There will be certain number of migrant labours which shall be staying at the site with/without
their families and there would be influx of labour from vicinity of the project site. Appropriate
facilities shall be arranged for the labour.

frequency
Child labour and ► Provision of clause in contractor’s Continuous HR and EHS

forced labour agreement that bans child labour team
and forced labour at project site.
► Adequate procedures to avoid or
prevent hiring/entry of child labour at
the project site
Health and safety ► Temporary creche facility may be Continuous HR and EHS
risks provided in case of migrant laborers team
children residing in the camps to
ensure safety
Water wastage ► Emphasis shall be given on Weekly Contractor
optimization of water usage and
supply of potable drinking water for
labour camps
Pressure on ► Fuel shall be made available to Weekly Admin team /
forest produce construction workers so as to Contractor
reduce pressure on forest produce
or local fuel wood resources
5.3 Operation phase
Solar power projects are environment friendly and easy to operate as most of the procedures
are automated and requirement of manpower is minimal. Therefore, no significant negative
impacts are envisaged during the operation phase of the project.
5.3.1 Switchyard operation
A dedicated team shall be deployed at the site for the switchyard operation which shall be
responsible to pass on the electricity to the sub-station. Since it is a high voltage area, safety
precautions are required to be undertaken.

frequency
Safety risks ► Regular safety training shall be Continuous Technical team
imparted to employee on electrical
safety
► Rubber mats to be provided near all At the time
high voltage areas of
► Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
installation
(CPR) charts to be displayed in the
switchyard area
Soil ► Regular maintenance and Annually Technical team
contamination monitoring of the transformers shall
be carried out to avoid leakage of
transformer oil
5.3.2 Use of groundwater resources
Minimal quantity of water would be required for the purpose of cleaning solar panels and for
domestic use by the employees including contract works employed during the operational
phase. The water requirement would be sourced from bore wells at site.

frequency
Depletion of ► A water meter shall be installed at Monthly EHS Team

Ground water water intake works to monitor total
water consumption
► Water reduction measures through
periodic checking of pipeline Weekly EHS Team
leakages
► Spills / wastages to be avoided and
ensure optimal consumption
5.4 Decommissioning phase
The project has an expected lifetime of 25 years after which the project shall be
decommissioned. The site may further be used for similar power project which will not require
much of remediation. However, if the site is used for some other purpose land restoration shall
be an important exercise.
A decommissioning plan has been prepared for the project activity and the key impacts
envisaged due to the decommissioning activities are highlighted below:
5.4.1 Removal and disposal of Solar panels
Solar panels shall be removed after the end of the lifetime and shall be disposed in accordance
of a pre-defined procedure.
frequency
Safety risks ► Safety shoes, helmet and gloves Before EHS team and
shall be provided to the workers initiation contractor
involved in removal of solar panels
Soil ► The removed solar panels shall be Continuous EHS team
contamination immediately shifted to designated
storage area to avoid contact with
soil
► In case of breakage or damage to
solar panels, the panels shall be
immediately shifted to a designated
area in scrap yard to avoid any type
of land contamination.
5.4.2 Restoration of area
If the project site is not intended to be used for similar type of project, the same shall be
restored to its natural state.

frequency
Land degradation ► All the excavated construction Continuous Civil team and
material/debris from the foundations contractor
shall be disposed in a pre-
determined landfill and shall not be
disposed at the project site
► Re-vegetation shall be done as EHS team
appropriate of the exposed area.
► All the waste generated till date shall EHS team
be disposed in accordance of the
applicable legislation
5.5 Budgetary estimates for implementing ESMMP:
An estimated budget of INR 0.2 to 0.3 million is planned for conducting assessments on an
annual basis for Soil, Air, Noise & Water quality from third party agency (i.e. an approved NABL
Laboratory) during the operational phase of the project
5.6 Organization Structure for Environmental management of project
CCPL has an EHS Department at Corporate and business unit level, headed by Seinor
Manager - EHS who is responsible for day-to-day implementation of the Project. The EHS
department is responsible for coordinating and implementing all environmental and social
activities at the project site. During project implementation, the EHS department will be
responsible for reflecting the occurrence of new and significant impacts resulting from project
activities and integrating sound mitigation measures into the environment mitigation and
monitoring plan.
The EHS head is responsible for implementing safeguard issues associated with the project
through a qualified EHS team consisting of managers, engineers and supervisors.
► The duties of the EHS department at corporate level are to:

► Monitor the implementation of mitigation measures during pre-construction, construction,
operation and de-commissioning phases of the project
► Prepare standard operating procedures (SOP) for different project sites.
► Advise and coordinate field unit’s activity towards effective environment management
practices
► Co-ordinate with the Ministry of Power, GPCB, and other concerned agencies to obtain
relevant permission, clearances for the projects with respect to environment, health and
safety.
The duties of the EHS department at site level are to:
► Implement the EHS manual guidelines and environmental good practices at site.
► Advise and coordinate the contractor(s) activity towards effective management of
environment, health and safety aspects.
► Train all CCPL employees including contract workers at site to make them aware on
various EHS practices and guidelines to be followed at site.
► Carrying out internal EHS audits at defined intervals, identify the existing EHS gaps at
the site and report the findings of the audit to the EHS head.
Sr. Manager - EHS

(Corporate Office)
Site Inspector - EHS
Site Engineers Site Supervisors EHS Executive
Contract Workmen
Figure 7: Organization Structure of Environment Management Unit for project

CCPL is fully committed to its environmental and social responsibility and discharges this
responsibility in adherence to principles of good corporate governance guidelines. Its staff and
contractors are fully committed to their environmental responsibility and discharge their
responsibility within CCPL’s EHS guidelines and operational framework.
CHAPTER 6: Environmental Impact specific to construction of the

transmission line
As per the terms of PPA, it is the responsibility of GETCO to arrange, provide and maintain the
power transmission evacuation facilities upto the 66 KV switchyard of the project. However, in
the interest of meeting the commissioning schedule for the project, it was agreed between
GETCO and the Company that the Company would manage the construction of transmission
lines under the overall supervision and approval of GETCO. To that effect, the Company has
awarded transmission line contract to contractors who are nominated and approved by GETCO.
Under these contracts, the works have been executed by GETCO approved contractors and in
line with GETCO’s existing policies and frameworks. The transmission line is expected to be
complete by the month of September 2012.
The transmission line for the project has been routed so as to avoid interference with threatened
flora and fauna, environmentally sensitive areas as well as human settlements. Thus, the
potential impacts from construction of transmission line are insignificant and temporary in
nature. These impacts and the mitigation measures taken up at the site during the construction
phase are as follows:
S. Potential Impact Mitigation Monitoring Responsibility Responsibility

No. action Frequency of of Supervision
Implementation
1 Soil erosion, Air Avoiding the At time of GETCO CCPL

Pollution due to unnecessary land approved
clearing of clearing of the clearing Contractor
vegetation (shrubs, vegetation
bushes)
2 Air and Noise ► Minimize Continuous GETCO CCPL

Pollution due to vehicular approved
Transportation of trips to the Contractor
extent
equipment to site
possible
► Proper
maintenance
of vehicles to
minimize air
and noise
emissions
3 Soil Movement, Air Minimal quantity Continuous GETCO CCPL
Emissions due to of waste would approved
Excavation, digging be generated Contractor
during the
of pits construction
period due to
the excavation
of the tower
foundations. The
excavated soil
would be
backfilled after
the construction
work.
4 Air Emissions, PPEs to be used Continuous GETCO CCPL

Noise Pollution due by the workers approved
to Structural Contractor
work/Mechanical
Work
5 Wastage of water ► Optimized Continuous GETCO CCPL

resources due to utilization of approved
use of water for water for Contractor
construction
construction
purpose
activities ► Emphasis
shall be given
on
optimization
of water
usage and
supply of
potable
drinking
water for
labour
working at
construction
site
6 Physical hazards ► Safety Continuous GETCO CCPL
related to working practices to approved
at height due to prevent Contractor
physical
Erection of towers,
hazards to
line stringing employees
should be
employed
► Training
imparted to
employees
on regular
basis
► PPEs to be
provided to
workers
7 Issues related to ► Provision of Continuous GETCO CCPL
construction labour clause in approved
management contractor’s Contractor
(Limited number of agreement
contractual that bans
workforce child labour
(maximum of 10- and forced
15) are employed labour at
during construction project site.
phase) ► Adequate
procedures to
avoid or
prevent
hiring/entry of
child labour
at the project
site
CHAPTER 7: Analysis of Alternatives
In order to assess the optimum feasibility of the solar energy projects for power generation in
the state, a comprehensive site assessment has been conducted by the Company for the
project, keeping following points under consideration : Higher solar radiation intensity, Land
availability, Connectivity and accessibility, Shading aspects, Water availability, Power
evacuation facilities (nearest available substations of GETCO ).
The state of Gujarat comprises high wasteland and high annual solar radiation. The Gujarat
Energy Development Agency (GEDA), the State Nodal Agency of Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India has developed state solar power policy to
promote generation of green and clean power, and productive use of waste lands, thereby
engendering a socio-economic transformation and creation of environmental consciousness
among citizens. The policy provides for efficient use of conventional energy, proactively
establish and promote sustained use of new and non- conventional energy sources and
applications to reduce emissions and related impacts of climate change.
As per the technical assessment undertaken across the Solar PV technologies, the crystalline
solar PV technology appears to be the most feasible option for the proposed location because
of the land type, meteorological study and annual behavior of solar radiation over the location
near Kathada, Ahmedgadh and Savda villages (Gujarat). Also, the land available for acquisition
for the project was not suitable for agriculture due to high salinity and also involved no
displacement of any person.
Although India’s generation and distribution capacity has grown significantly over the last
decade, the electricity consumption has also steadily increased and many parts of the country
continue to suffer power shortages both in terms of unmet demand during peak periods and an
overall energy shortage. Also, under the Electricity Act, 2003, the State Electricity Regulatory
Commissions (SERCs) set targets for distribution companies to purchase certain percentage of
their total power requirement from renewable energy sources. This target is termed as
Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO). This project is expected to help in achieving both the
demand-supply gap in energy requirement and RPO requirement.
The alternatives for power generation in the case of a ‘no project scenario’ would significantly
depend on the fossil fuel based energy (comprising almost 70% of the energy in the Indian grid).
This would result in higher greenhouse gas as well as air emissions from the generation of
same amount of power due to consumption of higher carbon intensive fossil fuels such as coal,
diesel, etc.
In the case of an alternative renewable energy based project based on biomass or wind, the
availability of surplus biomass for the first, and an optimal wind power potential for the latter is a
basic requirement for finalizing the project location. Wind based energy projects would also
require acquisition of suitable land area for installation and operation of windmills. In the case of
biomass projects, it has been noted that the smooth functioning of the project becomes a
challenge due to non availability of trained manpower during the operation and maintenance
phase. Thus, there are no additional environmental and social benefits even when other
renewable energy projects are considered as alternatives. Rather, the project alternative offers
a power source to meet India’s increasing energy demands through clean energy, zero
displacement or negative impacts on people and fauna / flora, with temporary environment and
social impact during the construction phase alone. However, the robust environment and social
mitigation and management plan that has been set out for the project is expected to address the
temporary impacts as identified.
CHAPTER 8: Grievance redressal mechanism
Environmental and social grievances are handled in accordance with the project grievance
redressal mechanism defined under the HR policy for contractors. The Grievance Redressal
Mechanism (GRM) for the project provides an effective approach for complaints and resolution
of issues made by the affected community in a reliable way. This mechanism was established
prior to construction and will remain active throughout the life cycle of the project. Open and
transparent dialogue will be maintained with project affected persons as and when needed, in
compliance with ADB safeguard policy requirements.
The major objectives of the Grievance Redressal Mechanism System are to:
 create a platform / process for prevailing proactive Industrial Relations;

 make people accountable for timely redressal of grievances;
 establish a robust process for addressing contract worker grievances;
 create a healthy working atmosphere and drive active engagement at contract worker
level;
 have a strategy, supporting long-term business requirements at site;
 prevent minor disagreements developing into more serious disputes later on;
 defend against legal intervention
A Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC) was formed at the project site to ensure affected
people’s grievances on both environmental and social concerns are adequately addressed and
facilitate timely project implementation. The GRC comprises the following members:
 Project head;
 Liasoning officer – Site In charge/Admin;
 Land seller /Local Community representative
Plan for handling grievances
Visit to villages are made by company representative to capture project affected families
grievances on continuous basis and record the same through public and individual meetings.
Compliance statuses of previous points are shared with public on periodic basis.
Record keeping
For record keeping purposes, grievance redressal registers are maintained at the following
locations on site:
► Register No. 1: Kept in Time Office.

► Register No. 2 onwards: Kept at various locations of the Plant as decided by the local HR
Head.
The register contains information such as date, time, location and names of villager and the
grievances, if any. The records are maintained about the information provided or discussed
against the grievance.
Communication was made to all contractor staff regarding the ‘Dos’ and ‘Don’ts’ and they were
apprised about the discipline amenable with the local customs and traditions during their
association with the project.
The labour has also been communicated that they can register their grievances in grievance
redressal registers. These grievances are studied, analyzed and appropriate solution to the
queries/grievances shall be provided to the concerned worker within 3 working days. In-Charge
Time Office shall generate a monthly MIS of all grievances registered along with their resolution
/ response provided and shall send the same to the respective unit HR Head.
Grievance Redressal Mechanism for Local Community
► The Project Head is responsible for capturing, identifying, maintaining enquiries associated
with community grievance in a register, and communicating progress to the concerned
community member.
► A Register contains information such as date, time, location and names of villager and
grievance; if any. The record summarizes what information was provided to or discussed
with the individual land seller.
► At the Chattel site, there are no grievances related to land acquisition or from local
community.
CHAPTER 9: Consultation and Participation
During project construction, the Company held informal meeting with the residents of Kathada,
Ahmedgadh and Savda villages in the month of December 2011. The company made a
presentation on the proposed project, development prospects, project impacts and measures to
mitigate possible negative impacts. The prospects of improving social and economic status of
the region as a result of a successful project implementation as well as corporate social
responsibility (CSR) activities of the Company were also discussed. The CSR activities
proposed by the Company and to be taken up during the operational phase of the project
include:
 Solar light for temple
 Assistance for village schools
 Transportation facility
 Women Empowerment Programmes
 Drinking water facility
During the site visit in February 2012, discussions were undertaken on an informal basis with a
group of 7-8 community members from Kathada, Ahmedgadh and Savda villages who
confirmed that they were made aware of the project by the Company. They indicated their
satisfaction with the project which will bring more jobs to the village and opportunities to set up
small businesses for construction and operational workers.
CSR programme for community during operation phase
The Company has set out a budget of approximately INR 0.4 – 0.5 Million per annum to
operationalize the CSR programme during the operation phase of the project. These
programmes shall be structured, based on an identification of the community and shall be
spearheaded by the Project Incharge at site.
CHAPTER 10: Conclusion and Recommendations
As already mentioned, the project activity will contribute to generation of 25 MWp of clean
power into the state grid. This will not only boost the economic and industrial development of the
area but will also contribute towards energy security.
This report assessed various existing environmental parameters in and around the project and
the actions taken to minimize any significant negative impact. It is observed that the planned
measures are already being implemented at the project site during the pre-construction and
construction phase.
The project site is not located in a sensitive ecosystem, and is not significant from the historical
and cultural perspective. It has been observed that most of the land purchased for the project is
agricultural land but the land has lost its fertility over the period of time due to saltwater
ingression in the area. This nature of the project site coupled with the clean nature of solar
power generation ensures that the Project will not cause any significant adverse environmental
and social impacts during construction and operation. The same is evident from the
observations delineated in the previous sections of the report.
The main project associated impacts are associated with clearing of shrub vegetation, waste
management and management of labour camps at the site. Moreover, most of the associated
impacts are limited to the extent of construction phase and are temporary in nature. Adequate
mitigation actions are undertaken in line with management and monitoring of the set of
recommended mitigation measures. Regular monitoring of the recommended mitigation
measures shall also be carried out during the implementation phase of the project.
In fact, various initiatives proposed in the project’s ESMMP such as the green belt development,
community development programmes, etc. are likely to enhance the environmental and
economic development in and around the project area. The company may take initiatives to
further strengthen its process/procedures on waste management with special emphasis on
handling of broken solar panels and handling and storage of oils/chemicals. Safety Toolbox
talks may be conducted on a regular basis at the site to encourage safety amongst workers.
Based on the MoEF Guidelines of Government of India the proposed project does not require
an environmental clearance. Considering the above, the project meets the classification criteria
for category B, in accordance with ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009.
Appendix A: Environmental compliance audit report
The construction phase of the project is currently going on and the project is scheduled to be
commissioned by end of September 2012. Internal audits were carried out by the corporate
EHS team to assess the compliance status against the defined environmental and social
mitigation and monitoring action plan in the IEE. Based on the assessment, it was observed that
most of the potential adverse environmental and social impacts were mitigated to an acceptable
level by implementation of the mitigation measures identified in the ESMMP. Provisions are
being made in the project to cover the environmental mitigation and monitoring requirements
across each of the project phases. The observations and recommendations, if any, are
delineated below:
1.1 Pre-Construction phase
All the defined mitigation actions were found to be implemented in the pre-construction stage of
the project activity to an acceptable extent. A snapshot of the actions undertaken is given below:
Anticipated Impact Mitigation actions undertaken
Loss of land, ► Informal stakeholder consultations were carried out with the local
livelihood, assets, community to provide an overview of the project activity and to
etc understand their needs and concerns;
► Appropriate compensation was provided to the land owners in line
with prevailing rates.
► The Company has engaged local people to the extent practically
possible for services like tractors, cars for employee transport, etc
The Company had offered employment opportunity to few of the
family members of the project affected landowners
Recommendations None
Land and water ► A designated area was defined for storage of project equipment
contamination and material and the floor of the storage area has been
concretized.
► Procedure has been defined for storage and handling of material
and the measures required to be undertaken in case of a spill
► Separate toilets were established at the site for men and women;
Soak pits are dug at the site to dispose the waste water
generated at the site.
Photograph showing separate toilet facilities for female

workers at the project site
Soil erosion ► Grading has been done in phases to minimize the area of bare
soil exposed at one time
► The unnecessary clearing of the site has been avoided.
► The topsoil in non-built up areas has been restored and such

portions of the site has been replanted with appropriate plant
species to stabilize soil
► An internal drain has been constructed for storm water collection
to minimize soil erosion.
► External boundary wall has been constructed to protect the
internal soil
Air pollution ► Practice of water sprinkling was evident during the site visit
Health risk ► First aid training has been provided to few of the workers at the
site. Records of regular health and safety related awareness
programs are also available at the site.
1.2 Construction phase
All the defined mitigation actions were found to be adequately implemented in the pre-
construction stage of the project activity. A snapshot of the actions undertaken is given below:
Air pollution ► All the excavated soil was properly covered to avoid the contact
with wind and water sprinkling was regularly practiced;
► The speed limit has been set to 15 km/hr within the project site
and all the suppliers are encouraged to carry a PUC (Pollution
under control) certificate.
► Trucks/dumpers used for transportation of materials are covered
by tarpaulin sheets
► Practice of water sprinkling was evident during the site visit
► Stack height in line with the legislative requirement was
maintained for the D.G sets used at the project site
► Ambient air quality monitoring was carried during the construction
period. Please see Appendix A (Attachment 1) for the Ambient Air
Quality Monitoring Records.
Air Pollution, Soil ► The excavated material generated at the site has been
and water completely reused for site filling and leveling operation
contamination
► The scrap metal waste generated from erection of structures and
related construction activities has been collected and stored
separately in a stack yard and sold to local recyclers.
► Food waste and recyclables viz. paper, plastic, glass has properly
segregated and stored in designated waste bins/containers. The
food waste is being collected and composted at site
► Hazardous waste viz. waste oil etc has been collected and stored
in paved and bunded area and subsequently sold to authorized
vendors. Broken solar panels are stored separately in the storage;
Diesel is also kept in the store
► A waste management plan is in place for handling and disposal
of the broken solar cells and handling and storage of
oils/chemicals
Recommendations ► Awareness amongst the workers at site about handling of broken

solar panels may be enhanced
► On-site storage of diesel shall be minimized
► Regular maintenance of vehicle may be carried out to avoid any
leakage of oil or grease
Health & Safety risks ► Vehicle speed at site is restricted to15km/hour

► Use of PPE was evident during the site visit
► During interview most of the workers handling solar cells and
hazardous waste were aware of the procedures to handle the
same up to an acceptable level
► Workers are checked at the entrance for inflammable material, if
any, and if found in possession are allowed to enter the premises
only after confiscation of the same at the security gate and after
being given a warning
► Training records of workers on occupational safety were available
at the site
Recommendations ► PPE usage may be further strengthened by regular tool box talks
or regular awareness sessions
► Procedures for handling broken solar cells and hazardous waste
may be displayed at site.
Noise pollution ► Regular maintenance of plant equipment is being carried out

► Noise prone activities are restricted to the extent possible during
night time.
► Personal protective equipments are provided to workers
performing drilling activities at site. Training records of workers on
occupational safety were available at the site
► Acoustic enclosures provided with the D.G sets to minimize the
noise levels
► Noise monitoring tests has been done during the construction
phase of the project. The noise level as per the monitoring record
is within the permissible limits. Please see Appendix A
(Attachment 2) for the noise monitoring records.
Recommendations ► None

Resource (fuel ► Labour should be made aware on the optimum use of fuel-wood
wood) depletion- for cooking
Use of local fuel
wood for
domestic/cooking
purposes
Transmission line related measures during the construction phase

The transmission line for the project has been routed so as to avoid interference with threatened
flora and fauna, environmentally sensitive areas as well as human settlements. Thus, the
potential impacts from construction of transmission line are insignificant and temporary in
nature. All the mitigation actions planned during the construction of the transmission line were
found to be adequately supervised by CCPL
The mitigation measures undertaken during the construction of the transmission line are
highlighted below:
Soil erosion, Air ► The unnecessary clearing of the vegetation has been avoided by
Pollution due to the contractor.
clearing of vegetation
(shrubs, bushes) ► The minimal quantity of soil excavated during the clearing of
vegetation has been backfilled immediately to prevent soil erosion
Air and Noise ► Proper maintenance of vehicles to minimize air and noise
Pollution due to emissions has been carried out by the contractor.
Transportation of
equipment to site ► Noise prone activities are restricted to the extent possible during
night time.
► Use of personal protective equipment like ear plugs, mufflers is

enforced for the contractor’s workmen by CCPL

Soil Movement, Air ► Small scale excavation has been carried out for pole foundation
Emissions due to work. The excavated material was backfilled and compacted after
Excavation, digging of the construction work to prevent soil erosion or air emissions.
pits
Air Emissions, Noise ► Use of personal protective equipment like ear plugs, mufflers,
Pollution due to dust masks, safety boots etc. is enforced for the contractor’s
Structural workmen by CCPL
work/Mechanical
Work ► Training has been imparted to contract workers by the contractor
on a regular basis
► Workplace safety Instructions displayed at the site for awareness

of the workers
Wastage of water ► Water requirements for the project has been monitored and
resources due to use attempts were made to avoid spills / wastages to ensure optimal
of water for utilization
construction activities
► Awareness programme regarding conservation of water has been
conducted for the workers
► Potable drinking water for labour working at construction site has

been provided
Physical hazards ► Safety practices to prevent physical hazards to employees have

related to working at been employed at site
height due to Erection
of towers, line ► Appropriate type of PPEs has been provided to workers at site
stringing and adequate monitoring is done to ensure consistent use of
PPEs by the workers
► Safety Induction Training is mandatory for workers at site.

Workers have also been trained on emergency preparedness
Recommendations ► Safety Toolbox talks to be conducted on a regular basis at the site
Anticipated Impact Mitigation action undertaken
Issues related to construction ► Provision of clause in contractor’s agreement that bans

labour management [limited child labour and forced labour at project site.
number of contractual workforce
(maximum of 10-15) are ► Adequate procedures in place such as verification of
employed during construction valid age documents such as school leaving certificate,
phase] voter’s identity card etc. to avoid or prevent hiring/entry
of child labour at the project site
1.3 Decommissioning phase
A decommissioning plan was available at the site. The same shall be cross checked with the
activities undertaken at the time of decommissioning.
1.4 Applicable Environmental Laws, Regulations and Standards-

Compliance Status
HREPL has taken all necessary steps to ensure compliance with the environmental statutory
regulations applicable on the project.
1.5 ADB’s Environmental and Social Assessment Framework
The project status assessed against the ADB Safeguard Policy is specified below:
ADB’s Social Safeguard’s Objective Status

Policy (2009)
SR 1 SR1 on the environment As per the requirements of SPS (2009)

requires that and assessments based on IEE
environment must be conducted at the site, the CCPL Solar
considered at all stages project is likely to fall under the
of the project cycle from environmental category “B” project.
project identification
through implementation.
SR 2 SR 2 on Involuntary In order for the Project to meet the

Resettlement requires requirements of SR 2, a Social
that all impacts (physical Safeguard Compliance Audit has been
and economic undertaken to assess the social
displacement) brought impacts of the project in and around the
about by land acquisition project location. No major impacts
be mitigated properly could be envisaged during the social
following the principle of compliance audit process. Also, there
replacement value. were no permanent inhabitants dwelling
on the site as confirmed by interviews
with the local community during the site
visit. For details, please refer Social
Safeguard Compliance Audit Report.
SR 3 SR 3 on Indigenous As per the survey of the project site and

Peoples require that the the areas in the vicinity, there were no
Indigenous people are identified project affected families from
identified and if present, the declared scheduled tribes or other
they should benefit from designated tribal communities. The
the development projects Project area also does not fall within the
and the project should “Scheduled Area” of the state (which is
avoid or mitigate determined by the Fifth Schedule of the
potentially adverse Constitution on the basis of
effects on indigenous preponderance of tribal population;
people caused by the compactness and reasonable size of
Project. the area; underdeveloped nature of the
area; and marked disparity in economic
standard of the people). For details,
please refer Social Safeguard
Compliance Audit Report.
ADB’s Social Protection The Social Protection All the applicable labour laws
Strategy (2001) Strategy requires that requirements have been met during
projects comply with different phases of the project. The
applicable labour laws, Company has HR Policies and
and take measures to procedures in place to ensure
comply with the core compliance with the applicable labour
labour standards for the laws. Also, regular monitoring is done
ADB financed portion of at the site to check the compliance
the Project. status of the applicable labour laws and
ADB requirements.
Photos: Chattel Site
Photograph showing the construction work in progress at the Photograph showing the project land
project site
Photograph showing the project area and the display of banner Photograph showing the shed area used for raw material
showing restricted entry for anyone below 18 years storage
Photographs showing the display of safety posters at the project site
Photograph showing the use of PPEs by the workers during the concrete mixing work at site
Attachment 1: Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Record (conducted by Government

recognized lab)
Pollutant Near LT Near LT Near Standards defined

room room switch under legislation
no.6 [on no.2 [on yard [on Annual 24 hour
24 hrs 24 hrs 24 hrs basis basis
basis ] basis ] basis ]
Sulphur Dioxide 38 32 36 <60 <100
(SO2)
Particulate 87 80 78 <40 <60
Matter <PM10
(ug/m3)
Particulate 52 42 47 <40 <80
Matter <PM2.5
(ug/m3)
Nitrogen dioxide 40 34 33 <40 <80
Ozone 22 26 26 <100 <180
Lead as Pb B.D.L B.D.L B.D.L < 0.5 <1
Carbon <1 <1 <1
Monoxide
Ammonia as 32 36 42
NH3
Benzene B.D.L B.D.L B.D.L
Benzeno B.D.L B.D.L B.D.L
Arsenic B.D.L B.D.L B.D.L
Nickel B.D.L B.D.L B.D.L
Attachment 2: Ambient Noise Monitoring Record (conducted by government recognized

lab)
Monitoring station Day Night Standard
Near Pota cabin 59 47 75 (Day) / 70 (Night)
Near LT room no.02 55 46 75 (Day) / 70 (Night)
Near switch yard 52 41 75 (Day) / 70 (Night)
Near contractor office 56 43 75 (Day) / 70 (Night)
Near main gate 55 44 75 (Day) / 70 (Night)

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Initial Environmental Examination

Project Number: 44932

IND: 145 MW Grid-connected Solar Project

Prepared by Chattel Construction Private Limited

ADB - Asian Development Bank

Standard Weights and Measures

ha (hectare) – 10,000 square meters

The objectives of the proposed IEE study include:

Baseline Environmental Condition

There were no permanent or temporary inhabitants dwelling on the site as confirmed by

Legal policies and institutional framework

Benefits due to Proposed Project

Potential Environmental and Social Impacts

Environmental Level of Reason Proposed Mitigation Measures

► The peak labour population is

Therefore, conflict of the

1 Project site Chattel

2 Village Name Kathada, Ahmedgadh and Savda

3 District Name Surendranagar

4 Name of the state Gujarat

5 Latitude 23°15’58.8” (North)

6 Longitude 71°46’42.9” (East)

7 Road Accessibility Road connectivity via Ahmedabad

8 Nearest Airport Ahmedabad

9 Nearest City Ahmedabad

10 Land available (Hectares) 91.83

11 Water requirement (LPD) 13,000

12 Annual Global Irradiance 2015

13 Type of PV Module Multi Crystalline

14 Proposed Capacity (MW) 25 MWp

15 Capacities of modules proposed The multi crystalline solar PV module of 230

17 Inverter model Bonfiglioli RPS TL 1220 PCU (3 phase,330V

18 Annual electricity supplied to grid 42891.460

19 Annual Plant Load factor (%) 19.59

20 Project Cost (Million INR) 2955.47

1.2 Need for the Project

1.3 Purpose/Objectives of IEE

► ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement, July 2009

► Relevant host country laws, regulations, applicable treaties and agreements

► IFC Environment, Health and Safety General Guidelines, April 2007

1.4 Methodology and approach of IEE

► Preparation of checklist for collecting project related information against applicable

► Review of land allocation documents, permits and other relevant documents

► Field visits to collect data relevant to the study area

► Interviews on a sample basis with the following stakeholders:

CHAPTER 2: Legal policies and institutional framework

► State Regulatory Commissions have specified a percentage of the total purchases to be

2.1 Regulatory Framework

► The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

2.2 ADB’s Environmental and Social Assessment Framework

2.2.1 ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009)

SR 2 on Involuntary Resettlement requires that all impacts (physical and economic

► Employment opportunities to be provided to project affected people and local villagers

► Establish a grievance redressal mechanism to receive and facilitate resolution of the

2.2.2 ADB’s Gender and Development Policy (1998)

2.2.3 ADB’s Social Protection Strategy (2001)

2.2.4 The IFC Performance Standards

The following Performance Standards are applicable to the project:

 Social & Environmental Assessment and Management Systems