Dinkar M. Jethva is executive director of Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Limited (GSECL). With a career spanning over three decades in the power sector, he began his journey at the Ukai TPS as a graduate apprentice in 1989, and underwent a year of extensive training in power plant O&M at NPTI, Nagpur. Subsequently, he worked his way through the ranks to reach the position of executive director at GSECL.
He has experience in various aspects of power generation such as operations, maintenance, power plant optimisation, and project planning and execution. He also has extensive knowledge of different types of power generation technologies, and a deep understanding of regulatory requirements and environmental considerations related to power generation.
According to Jethva, “Gujarat has set ambitious renewable energy targets to increase its share in the overall energy mix. The state aims to achieve a renewable energy capacity addition of 42 GW by 2030, with a focus on solar and wind. To this end, Gujarat has implemented various policies and initiatives, such as offering incentives for renewable energy projects, streamlining approval processes and facilitating grid integration. It has also established a conducive regulatory framework and infrastructure to support the growth of renewable energy projects”.
Jethva feels efficiency improvements in thermal power units can reduce the number of projects that need to be phased out. “This will ensure that thermal capacity remains operational, providing balancing power to the grid as the penetration of renewables increases,” he adds.
“GSECL is planning 3,200 MW of coal-based supercritical technology brownfield projects across the state, and 3,000 MW of floating solar projects and pithead plants in Odisha. India’s first large-scale 57 MWh battery energy storage system with a 35 MW solar project was initiated and commissioned under my leadership,” says Jethva.
Jethva’s management style depends on factors such as the company’s culture, challenges and goals. It is a blend of several key approaches tailored to the specific context and needs of the organisation, focused on inspiring and motivating employees, and quick decision-making.
By training, Jethva is a mechanical engineer from Saurashtra University. He also holds an MBA in operations management, as well as an LLB. He is a fellow member of The Institution of Engineers and a BEE-certified energy manager and auditor.