Draft Initial Environmental Examination of Proposed 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project (Part 1 to 3)

Project Number: 50195-001 January 2018

IND: ReNew Clean Energy Projects

Prepared by ARCADIS India Pvt. Ltd for Helios Infratech Pvt. Ltd. and the Asian Development Bank.

This Initial Environment 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.

In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area.

Environmental & Social Impact Assessment Report for 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Power Project,

Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh

Inc. Langdon & Seah | Hyder Consulting | EC Harris Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

CONTACTS

SUMIT BARAT Associate Director T: +91 (120) 4368400 ARCADIS India Pvt. Ltd. F: +91 (120) 4368401 3rd Floor, Tower B, M: +91 9810832452. Logix Techno Park, [email protected]. Sector – 127, Noida – 201301, Uttar Pradesh, India

DOCUMENT CONTROL

Task Title Date Signature

Saumabha Bhattacharya Ecologist & Environmental Specialist

Prepared by Jyoti Das 15/01/2018 Sociologist

Nasiruddin Rahaman GIS Expert

Reviewed & Dr Dibyendu Banerjee 15/01/2018 Authorized by Technical Director

Confidentiality:

This report is strictly confidential and is to be used exclusively by ReNew Renewables Private Limited and its investors and not be shared with any other party without prior written permission from ARCADIS. Reproduction of any part of the report may attract legal action.

Disclaimer:

Information contained in this report is based on the observations during survey and interview with stakeholders. The interpretation of data and judgment is based on the professional experience and represent professional opinion of the interpreter.

1 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary ...... 8 1 Introduction...... 18 1.1 Overview of the Project ...... 18 1.2 Wind Potential in Andhra Pradesh ...... 23 1.3 Wind Potential at Project Site ...... 23 1.4 Benefits of the Project ...... 24 1.5 Approach & Methodology of ESIA ...... 25 1.5.1 Approach ...... 25 1.5.2 Methodology ...... 28 1.6 ESIA Team ...... 28 2 Project Description ...... 29 2.1 Project Site Settings...... 29 2.2 Site Accessibility ...... 30 2.3 WTG Profiling & Technology ...... 35 2.3.1 Wind Turbine - Technical Details & Design ...... 35 2.4 Power Evacuation ...... 36 2.5 Resource Requirement ...... 37 2.5.1 Land ...... 37 2.5.2 Water ...... 39 2.5.3 Workforce ...... 40 2.6 Project Implementation Status ...... 40 2.7 Other Projects ...... 40 3 Social & Environmental Compliance Requirements ...... 41 3.1 National Regulations, Social & Environmental Performance Standards of IFC and ADB Safeguards ...... 41 4 Description of Environment ...... 51 4.1 Study area ...... 51 4.2 Physical Environment ...... 51 4.2.1 Climate & Meteorology ...... 51 4.2.2 Ambient Air Quality...... 53 4.2.3 Ambient Noise Quality ...... 57 4.2.4 Soil Quality ...... 58 4.2.5 Natural Drainage & Surface Water Quality ...... 58 4.2.6 Ground Water Quality ...... 60 4.2.7 Geology ...... 62 4.2.8 Land Use ...... 62 4.3 Biological Environment ...... 64 4.3.1 Habitat Survey ...... 65

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4.3.2 Terrestrial Ecology ...... 66 4.4 Socio Economic Profile of the Study Area ...... 72 4.4.1 Demographic Profile of District and Study Area Villages ...... 73 4.4.2 Schedule Caste (SC) & Scheduled Tribe (ST) ...... 75 4.4.3 Literacy ...... 76 4.4.4 Workers and Occupation ...... 77 4.4.5 Wages ...... 78 4.4.6 Livelihood source ...... 78 4.4.7 Livestock ...... 81 4.4.8 Local Employment and Migration ...... 82 4.4.9 Self Help Groups (SHGs) ...... 82 4.4.10 BPL Families and Vulnerability ...... 84 4.4.11 Land Holding: ...... 85 4.4.12 Amenities and Infrastructure ...... 86 4.4.13 Communication and Transportation Facilities ...... 89 4.4.14 Common Property Resources (CPR) ...... 90 4.4.15 Some important Schemes ...... 91 4.4.16 Stakeholder Consultation ...... 97 4.4.17 Grievance Redressal Mechanism (GRM) ...... 102 4.4.18 Community Development Plan under CSR ...... 102 4.4.19 Needs/Gap Assessment for CSR Initiatives ...... 103 4.4.20 Engagement of Labour ...... 104 5 Analysis of Alternatives & Site Selection ...... 106 5.1 Current or No project scenario ...... 106 5.1.1 Energy Security ...... 106 5.2 Alternate Methods of Power Generation ...... 107 5.3 Alternate Location for the Project ...... 108 5.3.1 Identification of sites for WTG’s...... 109 5.3.2 Alternate routes for transmission lines ...... 109 5.4 Conclusion ...... 109 6 Environmental & Social Impact Assessment ...... 111 6.1 Approach & Methodology ...... 111 6.2 Potential Impact Generating Activities ...... 113 6.3 Environmental Impact Identification ...... 118 6.3.1 Impact on Air Environment ...... 118 6.3.2 Impact on Water Environment ...... 119 6.3.3 Impact on Noise ...... 120 6.3.4 Impact on Land & Soil ...... 123

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6.3.5 Impact on Ecology ...... 124 6.3.6 Impact on Traffic...... 128 6.3.7 Effect on Rainfall ...... 129 6.3.8 Seismic Hazard ...... 129 6.3.9 Aviation Hazard ...... 130 6.3.10 Impact due to Shadow Flicker ...... 131 6.3.11 Visual Effects ...... 132 6.3.12 Electromagnetic Field (Emf) ...... 133 6.3.13 Cumulative Impacts ...... 134 6.4 Social Impact Identification ...... 136 7 Categorisation of the Project ...... 142 7.1 Categorization as per ADB guidelines ...... 142 7.1.1 Environment ...... 142 7.1.2 Involuntary Resettlement ...... 142 7.1.3 Indigenous Peoples ...... 143 8 Environmental & Social Management Plan ...... 144 8.1 Organizational Structure ...... 144 8.2 Training of Personnel & Contractors...... 144 8.3 Monitoring ...... 145 8.4 Documentation & Record Keeping ...... 145 8.5 Environmental Management Plans ...... 146 8.6 Occupational Health & Safety Management Plan ...... 158 8.7 Emergency Response Management Plan (ERMP) ...... 160 8.8 Community Health & Safety Plan ...... 162 8.8.1 Community Liaison Plan ...... 162 8.9 Grievance Redressal Mechanism ...... 163 8.10 Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) ...... 168 8.10.1 Stakeholder Identification, Mapping & Analysis ...... 168 8.10.2 Categorization of Stakeholders ...... 168 8.10.3 Stakeholder engagement & Communication Strategy ...... 169 8.10.4 Overall Stakeholder Engagement Strategy ...... 169 8.11 Environmental Monitoring Programme ...... 170

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1-1: Project Snapshot in Brief ...... 19 Table 2-1: Mean Annual Wind Speed & WPD at Project Site ...... 35 Table 2-2: Water Required during Construction Phase...... 39

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Table 3-1: Applicable EHS Regulations – Summary Table ...... 41 Table 3-2 Permitting & Compliance for the Proposed Project ...... 43 Table 3-3: IFC Performance Standards & Applicability to the Project...... 45 Table 3-4: ADB Safeguards and Compliance ...... 48 Table 4-1: Ambient Noise Monitoring Results (in decibels) ...... 57 Table 4-2: Mammals found in the Forest within the Study Area ...... 68 Table 4-3: List of Avifauna Sighted During Visit ...... 70 Table 4-4: List of Study Area Villages ...... 73 Table 4-5: Major Cropping Patterns in the District ...... 79 Table 4-6: Information on area wise Yield and Price of kharif Crop ...... 79 Table 4-7: Information on Area, Yield and Price of Rabi Crop ...... 80 Table 4-8:Village wise DWCRA List ...... 84 Table 4-9: Village Wise Vulnerable Group ...... 85 Table 4-10: Distribution of Average Size per Holding - All Social Groups ...... 85 Table 4-11: Study Area Village Wise Medical Facility Resources ...... 87 Table 4-12: Village Wise Common Property Resources ...... 90 Table 4-13: Consultation with Different Stakeholders ...... 97 Table 4-14: Govt. Circle Rates of Land ...... 98 Table 4-15: Study area Village wise No. of Anganwadi Centres ...... 100 Table 4-16: Key Needs/Gaps identified and recommendation for CSR activity ...... 103 Table 6-1: Impact Significance Matrix ...... 112 Table 6-2: Project Related Activities in Different Phases of Project ...... 113 Table 6-3: Impact Aspect Matrix for the Proposed Project ...... 115 Table 6-4: Indicative Noise from Different Equipment and Vehicles ...... 120 Table 6-5: List of Schedule I and Near Threatened Species Observed ...... 126 Table 6-6: Social Impacts Indicators and Analysis ...... 137 Table 8-1: Environment and Social Management Plan ...... 147 Table 8-2: Proposed Monitoring Requirements for the Proposed Project...... 171

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1-1: Project Location Map ...... 21 Figure 1-2: Key Project Component Map ...... 22 Figure 1-3: Wind Power Density Map of India ...... 24 Figure 2-1: Accessibility Map of Project Site ...... 32 Figure 2-2: Contour Map of Project Site ...... 33 Figure 2-3: DEM Map of Project Site ...... 34 Figure 4-1: Rainfall Distribution of the District (2009-13) ...... 52 Figure 4-2: Windrose Showing Predominant Wind Direction at Project Site ...... 53 Figure 4-3: Monitoring Location Map of the Study Area ...... 54

Figure 4-4: PM10 Levels Recorded at AAQ Stations ...... 55

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Figure 4-5: PM2.5 Levels Recorded at AAQ Stations ...... 56

Figure 4-6: SO2 Levels Recorded at AAQ Stations ...... 56

Figure 4-7: NOX Levels Recorded at AAQ Stations ...... 56 Figure 4-8: CO Levels recorded at AAQ Stations ...... 57 Figure 4-9: Drainage Map of Project Site ...... 59 Figure 4-10: Catagorization of Mondals of Anantapur District with Respect to Ground Water Resource ...... 60 Figure 4-11: Water Level Fluctuation Map of Anantapur District ...... 61 Figure 4-12: Land Use Map of the Study Area ...... 63 Figure 4-13: Biogeographic Zones of India ...... 66 Figure 4-14: Ecological Sensitivity Map...... 69 Figure 4-15: Gender Ratio in Study Area ...... 74 Figure 4-16: Study Area Scheduled Caste Population ...... 75 Figure 4-17: Literacy Scenario in Study Area ...... 76 Figure 4-18: Work Force Participation Rate in The Study Area Villages ...... 77 Figure 4-19: Female Work Force Participation in Study Area Villages ...... 78 Figure 4-20: Source of Irrigation in Anantapur ...... 81 Figure 5-1: India’s Projected Power Requirement ...... 107 Figure 6-1: Seismic Zoning map of India ...... 130 Figure 6-2: Location of Other Projects near to Veerbhandra Site ...... 134

LIST OF APPENDIX

Appendix A: WTG Profiling of Borampalley WTg Site ...... 177 Appendix B: CTE & CTO Requirements as per Andhra Pradesh Wind Power Policy ...... 180 Appendix C: ILO Workers’ Accommodation Recommendation ...... 182 Appendix D: World Bank Chance Find Procedure ...... 184 Appendix E: List of Flora ...... 185 Appendix F: List of Fauna ...... 197 Appendix G: Protected Monuments in Anantapur District ...... 202 Appendix H: Noise Modelling ...... 203 Appendix I: Shadow Flicker Modelling ...... 208 Appendix J: Photo Documentation ...... 212 Appendix K: Summary of Stakeholders Consultation...... 213 Appendix L: Demographic Profile of the Study Area Villages ...... 216

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ABBREVIATIONS

AC Alternating Current APTRANSCO Transmission Corporation of Andhra Pradesh CGWB Central Ground Water Board CSR Corporate Social Responsibility CTE Consent to Establish CTO Consent to Operate CWET Centre for Wind Energy Technology DISCOM Distribution Company (India) DC Direct Current E&S Environmental and Social Risk EIA Environment Impact Assessment EPFI Equator Principles Financial Institutions ESDD Environment & Social Due Diligence ESIA Environment and Social Impact Assessment ESMP Environmental Social Management Plan ESSG Environmental Social Safety and Governance FI Financial Institutions GRM Grievance Redressal Mechanism ICAR Indian Council of Agricultural Research IFC International Finance Corporation IFC PS International Finance Corporation Performance Standards ILO International Labour Organization IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature MNRE Ministry of New and Renewable Energy MOEFCC Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change NIWE National Institute of Wind Energy NREDCAP New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh. OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer PAP Project Affected People PCU Power Conditioning unit PFI Project Finance Institutions PS Performance Standard USDA United States Department of Agriculture WPA Wildlife Protection Act WPD Wind Power Density

7 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Components Description

Background Helios Infratech Pvt. Ltd. a subsidiary of ReNew Power Ventures Private Limited (ReNew Power) is proposed to establish a 100.8 MW wind farm project, located in Ramagiri and Kanaganapalley mandal of Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. It is a turnkey project, in which ReNew Power has signed an agreement with M/s Suzlon Energy Limited (hereinafter refer as ‘Suzlon’), Pune for site development. Suzlon is in charge of construction, commission, operation and maintenance of the Project. Arcadis has been appointed as an independent environmental consultant to conduct an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) in accordance with IFC’s, ADB’s Performance Standards & EHS guidelines as well as ReNew’s ESMS manual. Arcadis team visited site on November 2016, for ESIA study. Then the site was under early stage construction. ESIA assess ment was donse based on the available resources and imputs from site visit. After the site was commissioned, Arcadis team again visited the site on November 2017 to update the ESIA based on all project specific changes on ground.

Project Overview ReNew Power has signed an agreement with M/s Suzlon Energy Limited (hereinafter refer as ‘Suzlon’), Pune for site development. All site development related approvals will be the responsibility of Suzlon. Being a turnkey project, Suzlon is in charge of construction, commission, operation and maintenance of the Project. The developer is also responsible for community and land related matters. The project location is a designated wind farm area, categorized as Wind Zone –III having very good wind potential by C-WET.  M/s Suzlon is given contract for development, construction and erection of 48 number “Suzlon – S-97” wind turbine generators with a production capacity of 2.1 MW/turbine. Total production capacity will be 100.8MW.  All internal transmission lines are 33 kv level with panther/ dog.  M/s Suzlon is responsible for operation and maintenance of the wind power site.  A pooling substation (PSS) with an approximate area of 12.3 acres, is constructed by near Peruru village adjacent to turbine no VRB17.  A 220/33 kV transmission line erected by Suzlon evacuates power from Veerbhandra pooling Substation to Ralla Project Pooling substation developed and maintained by Suzlon. From there it is connected to a government (APTRANSCO) grid substation located in village Borampalli is at advance stage of construction. Power will be evacuated from wind farm pooling substation to APTRANSCO’s (Andhra Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation Limited) 220/132 kV Borampalli substation

8 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Components Description  Total 2.5 acres land has been procured for 24 towers of high tension transmission on 25 years lease.  28.3 acres land has been leased for 1 year, adjacent to N.S. Gate- Kambadur PWD road, adjacent to WTG VRB46 as storage yard to keep WTG components apart from blades.  To store blade, 6.06 acres of land is leased for 1 year near WTG VBR17, to set up a blade store yard.

Applicable IFC’s The ESIA study has been assessed for the overall impacts on Environmental Performance and Social components due to construction and operational activities of the Standards proposed wind power project. The applicable IFC performance standards for the project include:

 PS 1: Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts The proposed project will have environmental and social impacts such as generation of noise, and small quantities of hazardous wastes from the construction site. The company will contractually require the developer / operator to put in place a social and environmental organization consisting of qualified E&S personnel with appropriate responsibility allocation to implement / oversee / monitor. Construction Phase:

 Performance of contractors on labour and health & safety aspects Operation Phase:

 Periodic monitoring of social and environmental performance  Internal and third-party audit  Management review Both Construction and Operation Phase:

 The implementation of the ESMP  Community engagement and grievance redressal system/mechanism  Regular training of employees and contractors  Emergency preparedness and response  Periodic reporting of E&S performance to the management ReNew needs to implement an Environmental and Social Management System to monitor and manage the risks associated with the operation of wind farm.

 PS 2: Labor and Working Conditions The PS 2 applies to the workers who are directly engaged by the client (direct workers) and also the workers engaged through third parties (contracted workers). The proposed project involves employment of direct and contracted workers during construction and operation phases. Locals are being hired to carry out unskilled work. Construction Phase:

9 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Components Description  Performance of contractors on health & safety aspects  To the extent possible sourcing of construction labour to be done in local region  Promote fair treatment, non-dissemination and equal opportunity of workers  Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE’s) should be issued to workers Operation Phase:

 Promote compliance with National employment and labour law  Establish, maintained, and improvement the worker – management relationship  Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE’s) should be issued to workers Both Construction and Operation Phase:

 Community engagement and grievance redressal system/mechanism should be implemented.  Health and Safety: Proper training related to workplace activity, firefighting, mock drills, emergency response, introduction to PPE gears and occupational health and safety should be conducted periodically.  Emergency preparedness and response should be prepared.  Labour must be provided of good quality potable water that meets national drinking water standards and toilets. PS 2 is therefore applicable for the proposed project.

 PS: 3 Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention The PS-3 is applicable to projects resulting in increased levels of pollution and requires project to avoid, minimize, or reduce adverse impacts on human health and environment by adopting pollution preventive and control technologies throughout the Project life cycle. The proposed project is a clean energy project and will not have major pollution sources associated with it. The construction works for the development of project will result in generation of wastes like wastewater, waste oil and construction debris. The operation phase will result in noise emissions and generation of minor quantities of waste such as transformer oil. During the construction phase, the vehicles involved for hauling of equipment’s and materials to the project site may increase the pollution level and dust in the air. Construction Phase:

 Packaged drinking water through authorized dealer will be used for drinking purpose.  Ground water, if used for the project activities will be done after getting necessary approvals.  Domestic waste water would be discharged through soak pits  Solid domestic waste would be segregated and disposed through local vendor.

10 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Components Description  Storage of hazardous waste will be done in separate bins with proper labelling and stored with secondary containment to avoid any spillage and soil contamination. Operation Phase:

 Packaged drinking water through authorized dealer will be used for drinking purpose.  Domestic waste water would be discharged through soak pits  Solid domestic waste would be segregated and disposed through local vendor.  Storage of hazardous waste will be done in separate bins with proper labelling and stored with secondary containment to avoid any spillage and soil contamination. Both Construction and Operation Phase:

 Solid domestic waste would be segregated and disposed through local vendor.  Storage, management and disposal of wastes especially hazardous wastes, mainly transformer oil. The material need to be segregated according to type and necessary space needs to be allocated for storage under various categories.  Authorized Vendor should be identified for transporting the hazardous waste.

 PS: 4 Community Health, Safety and Security The project will involve movement of vehicles on the approach road passing close to villages like Peruru, entering the site through the N.S. Gate-Kambadure road. Further, at the project site, the project developer will need to exercise appropriate access control. This control will include barricading of excavated areas, safety signage and other measures to mitigate the risk of accidents for general public during the construction phase. Also, the project envisages influx of labours from nearby villages as well as other parts of the country. Approximately 300 labours are staying in three villages like Ramagiri, Peruru and Kanaganapalley on rental basis. Health and Safety requirement are being taken care by the project developer, which ensures the safety system and measures are adequately taken to put in place both during construction and operation phase of the project to avoid accident or emergency situation. Shadow flicker occurs when the sun passes behind the wind turbine and casts a shadow. As the rotor blades rotate, shadows pass over the same point causing an effect termed shadow flicker. Shadow flicker may become a problem when potentially sensitive receptors (e.g., residential properties, workplaces, learning and/or health care spaces/facilities) are located nearby, or have a specific orientation to the wind energy facility. Through shadow flicker modelling, one village P R Kottala was predicted to have more than 30hours/ year of shadow flickering.

11 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Components Description Wind turbines can be programmed to shut down at times when shadow flicker limits are exceeded. Operational WTG produces noise from mechanical system like gearbox, generator, yaw motors, fans and hydraulic motors. Apart from all these mechanical component, aerodynamic noise is produced from rotating turbine blade. Noise modelling showed that this project will have negligible noise impact, as WTG locations were located more than 200m from settlement. Measures to prevent and control noise are mainly related to engineering design standards and turbine siting and appropriate noise barriers around potentially affected receptors.

A failure of the rotor blade can result in the “throwing” of a rotor blade, or part thereof, which may affect public safety. The overall risk of blade throw is extremely low. Minimize the probability of a blade failure by selecting wind turbines that have been subject to independent design verification/certification (e.g., IEC 61400- 1), and surveillance of manufacturing quality. Hence PS 4 is applicable for the project.

 PS: 5 Land Acquisition and Procedure of Procurement Village wise land requirement have been procured during the ESIA study.It was informed by ReNew that Privately Owned Lands was on the first of the priorities for selection of WTG locations. Later Assigned Lands were also resuned through appropriate govt. authority. As it was confirmed by project land team (Suzlon) during the site visit, all private lands are purchased through the land aggregator. Land Registration for 29 locations has been completed based on negotiation with land seller, through the land aggregator. Rest of 19 locations was taken assigned land through proper process. Till the time of ESIA study land has been procured from willing seller through one to one negociation from land sellers. The Sale Deeds for the Land Sellers are verified by the ESIA Experts. Based on community and land owner consultation conducted for this project, it is understood that land negotiations are being conducted in good faith negotiations and willing buyer- willing seller basis. It is also Presentation Edorsemenmt of Registered Sale Deeds of the Land Owners that the lands are lawfully saleable and dry in nature. Assigned lands were also resumed by competent authority following all rules and regulations applicable. Then it was tracfeered jointly to NREDACAP and the Project Proponent. A Social Safeguard Compliance Audit was conducted to ascertain if any project induced impact is affecting the livelihood of the assignees. It was found in Social Safeguard Compliance Audit study there is no adverse impact on the livelihood of the assignees of the land resumed from the assignees land. PS 5 is not triggered.

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Components Description  PS: 6 Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resource Forest land is not involved in the project. However, black bucks were occasionally observed within the project site. Black bucks are protected and conserved under Indian Wildlife Protect Act, 1972. The project site is dry and arid in nature. Penneru River traverses through the project site which is seasonal in nature. Seven Schedule I species (WPA 1972) of birds, one Schedule I species of mammal i.e. Black Buck which is also Near Threatened based on IUCN Red List were observed or reported within the study area. No sanctuary or national park is located within 5 kms of the project site.

 PS 7: Indigenous Peoples: Both the project proponent and the developer has informed that no land are being procured from Indigenous people. During visit it was also confirmed that that no such sensitive area is coming within the purview of WTG locations or the storage area. As per Census, 2011, the Scheduled Tribes (ST) constitute 0.43%, 1.87% and 0.26% of the total population of study area (Perur, Nasanakota and Narasampalle) villages respectively. Considering the factual evidences sustained during consultation as well, PS 7 is not applicable PS 7 is not applicable

 PS 8: Cultural Heritage: As no evidence of any sensitive cultural heritage is found to be located within the proximity of the project site and surrounded area, PS 8 is not applicable.

ADB Policy on During Construction Gender and The project involves use of worker during construction. Employment of women Development workforce should be encouraged, and equal employment opportunity should be (GAD) provided. There should be no distinction in salary and compensation level. Facilities like separate toilets and crèche should be provided.

ADB’s Social During construction Protection Local as well as migrant labours are involved in civil construction and erection Strategy (2001) of WTG. Along with labours technical staff are also involved. Labour camps would be constructed and accommodation both on site and off site would be provided. There would be a mix of male and female workers at site. Families of workers may also be provided accommodation During operation Labours and workers are involved in O&M and security. Site office is constructed. Hence the policy is applicable. ADB policy on During construction Public Assuming there may be grievance in land procurement, vehicle movement and Communication construction process GRM was established. Grienvance Register is also found policy in place. Such grievance are meant to be promptly addressed. During Operation

13 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Components Description Grievance related to project functioning, Shadow Flickering etc. to be noted and acted upon. Proper escalation and communication channels needs to be established. Hence the policy is applicable to the project activity Project Impacts – The impacts due to the project are minimal, site specific, temporary Construction and reversible owing to the construction period (which is of short phase Phase of 6-7 months only).

 Air Quality: fugitive emission from movement of vehicle as well as construction activity can be anticipated, but it will be very low and temporary in nature.  Ground Water: The domestic water demand (comprising of drinking and flushing) for the construction workers will be about 36 m3/day (@ 120 liter per capita per day (lpcd) for 300 workers) for max 6-7 months. Water requirement for concreting and curing activities will be around 80 m3 and 50 m3 per foundation respectively, totaling to 130 m3 per foundation. Tanker water will be used for construction purposes. As per Central Ground Water Board the ground water in Kalyandurg mandal where the proposed project site is located is falling in the Semi-Critical zone. Soak pits should be established for wastewater discharge from labour accommodation centres located in villages. Optimizing the use of water for sprinkling, washing of vehicles, concrete mixing, etc.  Wildlife: Potential impact on wildlife (Antelopes, bears) of the area is anticipated due to man animal conflict during construction and excavation activities. As per WPA, 1972, Section 51, killing of wildlife (including blackbucks and bears) will lead to a penalty which is imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine which may extend to twenty-five thousand rupees or with both.  Laborers: About 300 workers (inclusive of both skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled) are expected during the peak construction phase. Social impacts such as conflict among the labour due to mixing of migrant labours from other places is possible due to sharing of common resources and cultural differences. There is also a possibility of spread out of diseases associated with migrant labour with local population. The impact can be managed by adopting suitable mitigation measures as suggested in the ESIA report.

Project Impacts –  Noise: Noise modelling has been carried out considering the cumulative Operation Phase impact of both S-97 model of WTG at the wind speed range of 4 m/s to 15 m/s. Noise modelling result was verified on field for identification of receptors. None of the turbines were predicted to have noise effect.  Shadow Flicker: Shadow flicker is the light effect caused when the sun is positioned behind a rotating wind turbine. With the sun in the background, large moving shadows can be produced. The shadow flicker impact is the main significant impact of wind farm on nearby communities.

14 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Components Description  Only one receptors were identified by realtime shadow flicker modelling, which will have more than 30 hrs/year of shadow flicker by shadow flicker modelling considering worst case scenario. The receptor was identified as store yard of Suzlon.  Avifauna: Out of the total 65 species observed, seven bird species were Schedule I.

Mitigation Appropriate mitigation measures has been planned and recommended in the Measures ESIA report. These measures will minimise the impacts on air, water, soil, noise quality, solid and liquid effluent waste, ecology and socio-economic conditions. The activities of the project during both construction and operation phase will help in improving the socioeconomic condition of the surrounding area. Construction Phase

 Alternative source of water for construction should be explored like sourcing water from nearby water bodies (like Upper Penneru Reservoir) for construction activities.  Signage prohibiting the hunting or killing of the antelope should also be placed in and around the project site.  Proper personal protective equipment like, safety helmet, safety shoes, safety harness ear plug, etc. should be provided to workers as required.  Workers to be trained for working at height and safety measures with proper work permit should be implemented for avoiding any incidents or accidents.  Need based sprinkling of water should be carried out near the construction site to suppress dust.  Vehicles speed to be restricted to 20-25 km/hr on unpaved road  Suzlon will need to exercise appropriate access control, barricading of excavated areas; safety signage; illumination and other measures to mitigate the risk of accidents for general public during the implementation of the project. Operation Phase

 WTG models with inbuilt noise reducing technologies conforming to international acoustic design standards should be installed.  There will be close monitoring through engagement with villagers where the impacts are predicted due to shadow flicker.  Use of curtains, higher fencing and planting trees can be explored at problem locations for both shadow flicker and noise.  Signage prohibiting the hunting or killing of the antelope should also be placed near the WTG location and substation area.  Visibility enhancement objects such as marker balls, bird deterrents, or diverters shall also be installed along the transmission line to avoid bird collision.  The tip of blades should be painted to increase visibility and avoid collision.

15 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Components Description  A detailed bird and bat study and monitoring for all season shall be done during operation phase for at least one years.  Collision risk modelling should be undertaken to understand the extent of impact on bird and bat due to collision with operating WTGs.  Top of the towers be regularly checked to avoid any nesting in any suitable gaps or platforms.  Flash lamps on the WTGs should be installed to reduce the collision risks during nights.

Conclusion The overall conclusion of the ESIA study is based on following outcomes:

 As all project components are located more than 300 m away from the nearest village settlements, potential impact due to noise generated during construction phase is considered to be low.  The proposed wind power project is having moderate but temporary impact due to ground water utilization during construction period.  Impact on avifauna during operation phase is assessed to be moderate in nature.  There will be no impact on cultural resources due to their absence in the study area.  There will not be any adverse impact on the Indigenous Community in the area.  Overall the project is having positive impact in terms of employment generation and creation of infrastructural facilities through access road creations that can be used by the villagers. Categorisation as per IFC Performance Standard Based on the conclusion drawn from the ESIA study proposed project is predicted to have very limited environmental and social impacts and can be categorized as B category project. Categorization as per ADB guidelines Environment

Analysis of project indicates that proposed project has very limited environmental and social impacts. The major environment impact is during short termed during construction. During operation the project does not emit any significant air / water or noise emission. Hence the project is categorized as category B.

Involuntary Resettlement Land is purchased based on willing seller willing buyer basis. Land devoid of any habitation is purchased and no involuntary resettlement is involved, so categorised as Category C. Indigenous Peoples

16 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Components Description Land of Indigenous people (SC/ST) is not involved in the project, moreover the project is not expected to have impact on Indigenous people. So, from the point of Indigenous Peoples also the project can be Categorised as C.

This Executive Summary should be read in conjunction with the full report and reflects an assessment of the Site based on information received by Arcadis at the time of reporting.

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1 INTRODUCTION

This project is developed by ReNew through Helios Infratech Pvt. Ltd. a subsidiary company of ReNew. ReNew Power is an independent power producer (IPP) which was set up in January 2011 for the development of renuable based power projects. ReNew Power is rapidly expanding its asset with 1.2 GW of commissioned assets out of which it has an installed capacity of 880 MW of wind energy. The company is already producing wind power in Rajasthan, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat. Apart from that the company produces power from two wind power projects in Andhra Pradesh. ReNew power now proposed a 100.8 MW Wind Power project in Anantapur District of Andhra Pradesh.

ReNew Power has signed an agreement with M/s Suzlon Energy Limited (hereinafter refer as ‘Suzlon’), Pune for site development. All site development related approvals will be the responsibility of Suzlon. Being a turnkey project, Suzlon is in charge of construction, commission, operation and maintenance of the Project. The developer is also responsible for community and Land related matters. With a core belief in sustainability both operationally and environmentally, ReNew Power endeavors to be a responsible business playing an important role in the community beyond its role in the power generation industry. Arcadis has been appointed as an independent environmental consultant to conduct an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) in accordance with IFC’s Performance Standards & EHS guidelines. Arcadis has assessed potential environmental and social risks and impacts arising from proposed project. It has drawn an Environmental and Social Management Plan for ReNew which will help in mitigating the potential adverse impacts associated with this project.

1.1 Overview of the Project

The proposed 100.8 MW wind power project is located in villages like Peruru, Nasranakota and Narsampalley villages in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh state. The project will comprise of following:

 Base on contract between ReNew and Suzlon, Suzon has developed 48 number “Suzlon – S-97” wind turbine generators with a production capacity of 2.1 MW/turbine. Total production capacity will be 100.8MW.  Private land was taken for 29 WTG locations.  Assigned Lands (also called D-Patta) was taken, for 19 WTG locations and pathways.  All internal transmission lines is of 33 Kv level with panther/ dog.  M/s Suzlon is responsible for operation and maintenance of the wind power site.  Suzlon constructed Veerbahandrapooling substation (PSS) with an approximate area of 12.3 acres, near Peruru village adjacent to turbine no VRB17  Land for transmission line has been procured from Vepakunta, Maddalacheruva, Sivapuram, P.R. Kottala, Kottapalli villages under Peruru and K. N. Palyam Panchayat covering 7.04 Km., from Veerbhandra PSS to Ralla Project Pooling substation. On an average 2.5 acres land has been procured for 24 towers of high tension transmission on 25 years lease.  This pooling substation is connected to Ralla Project Pooling substation developed and maintained by Suzlon. From there it is further connected to government (APTRANSCO) grid substation located in village Borampalli which was at advance stage of construction. Power will be evacuated from wind farm pooling substation to APTRANSCO’s (Andhra Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation Limited) 220/132 kV Borampalli substation

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 28.3 acres land has been leased for 1 year, adjacent to N.S. Gate- Kambadur PWD road, adjacent to WTG VRB46 as storage yard to keep WTG components apart from blades.  To store blade, 6.06 acres of land is leased for 1 year near WTG VBR17, to set up a blade store yard. Project location map is provided in Figure 1-1. Location of the WTGs on toposheet published by Survey of India is presented in Error! Reference source not found.. Location of all the project components are rovided in Figure 1-3.

Table 1-1: Project Snapshot in Brief

S. No Particulars Description

Peruruu, Nasanakota and Narsampalley in Anantapur 1 Project Site District 2 Mandal / Tehsil Ramgiri & Kanaganapalley 3 District Name Anantapur 4 Name of the State Andhra Pradesh 5 Site Elevation 500m AMSL on an average 6 Latitude 14°25'8.06"N to 14°20'18.52"N 7 Longitude 77°21'33.15"E to 77°25'24.06"E Anantapur is located on NH 44 (previously NH 7) between Hyderabad & Bangalore. Site can be reached from NH 44 (previously NH 7) by taking N.S. Gate exit about 50km south of Annantapur 8 Road Accessibility and moving via N.S. gate – Kambadur road via Ramgiri. Again Site can be approached from Kalyandurg via Kalyandurg-Hindupur highway till Kambadur and then from Kambadur via Kambadur-N.S. Gate road. 9 Nearest Airport Bangalore (around 250km)

10 Nearest Railway Station Anantapur (around 70 km)

Generally flat terrain with isolated rocky outcrops and 11 Type of Terrain hillocks Private Lands were procured on willing seller buer basis and good faith negotiation and D-Patta 12 Ownership of land (Assigned) lands were taken through appropieate Govt. authority following all rules and regulation Other than Forest Lands, mostly Agricultural (once 13 Present land use cultivated) and scrub land 14 Proposed arrangement of land Point basis (3 acres per WTG) All the locations identified, are seen and verified by the ESIA Team. Total 48 locations have been finalised based on availability of land and based on willing buyer willing seller practice. Apart from land for WTG, 28.3 Acres, and 15 Project Status at the time of ESIA study 6.06 Acres of land has been leased 1 years for main store yard and blade store yard..

Total 7.04km long transmission line is erected to evacuate power from Veerbhandra PSS to Ralla PSS. Land for transmission line has been procured from

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S. No Particulars Description Vepakunta, Maddalacheruva, Sivapuram, P.R. Kottala, Kottapalli villages under Perur and K. N. Palyam Panchayat from PSS to GSS at Ralla. On an average 2.5 acres land has been procured for 24 towers of high tension transmission on 25 years lease.

On November 2017 all the 48 locations have been commissioned, Veerbhandra PSS is installed and fuctional. Project has been commissioned and producing power.

16 Model of wind turbine Suzlon – S-97 17 Number of WTGs 48 18 Capacity of each turbine proposed S 9-7 – 2100 KW 19 Total Capacity of the project 100.8 MW

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Figure 1-1: Project Location Map

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Figure 1-2: Key Project Component Map

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1.2 Wind Potential in Andhra Pradesh

Based on the studies conducted through wind monitoring exercise, it is found that the southern part of Andhra Pradesh has got wind potential for setting up of wind farms. The areas in Anantapur, Cuddapah, Kurnool and parts of Nellore and Chittoor district have relatively better potential sites to set up wind power projects. As per the assessment of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the estimated gross potential is 8,968 MW in A.P. NREDCAP is the single window clearance agency to sanction projects up to 20 MW capacity in the State and so far 233.72 MW capacity of projects by various private developers has been established. In view of above, decision for establishment of wind power project by ReNew in Andhra Pradesh is a timely and right step to avail advantage of growing wind power industry in India.

1.3 Wind Potential at Project Site

The MNRE, had issued a guideline to consider Wind Power Density (WPD) of 200 watt/m2 at 50 meter hub height as the minimum requirement for suitability of wind power project development in its circular dated 27.06.2002. With change in wind turbine technology and better efficiency, even the lower wind regimes have become exploitable. Considering the same, the MNRE, vide its circular dated 01.08.2011, had issued a new guideline wherein it has been decided that hereafter, no restriction will exist for Wind Power Density (WPD) criteria as far as the development of wind power projects are concerned.

The project location is a designated wind farm area, categorized as Wind Zone –III having very good wind potential by C-WET. As per the Wind Power Density (WPD) Map of India prepared by C-WET (February 2010) reveals the WPD of the proposed site generally vary between 200 – 250 W/m2 (Refer Figure 1-3).

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Figure 1-3: Wind Power Density Map of India

Source: Centre for Wind Energy Technology

1.4 Benefits of the Project

This wind power project offers the following advantages:

 The technology of electricity generation from wind has been developed fully for smooth and trouble- free operation as well as for its economic viability.  It is renewable, pollution free and eco-friendly;

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 Low gestation period – less than six months from concept to commissioning, enabling fast bridging of power gap even in remote areas.  With no fuel consumption, power generation becomes almost free after recovery of capital cost. Operation & Maintenance (O & M), cost is nominal.  It can be developed in modular form with facilities for extension at a later date.  No adverse social impact, such as resettlement and rehabilitation;  Wind power plant provides energy security by minimizing the dependency on fossil fuels for power generation;  Availability of government incentives to renewable projects in India.

1.5 Approach & Methodology of ESIA

1.5.1 Approach The project related activities are understood through desktop review of documents like permits/clearances (if any), maps, etc. and reconnaissance survey to the project location and surrounding area was conducted for familiarization with the project location. The site setting and sensitivities (if any) was surveyed in one visits during November 2016. This was followed by identifying environmental and social risks associated with the project with respect to applicable national regulations and IFC performance standards. The review and findings will be assessed to identify gaps in addressing identified environmental or social risks and identifying additional risks (if any) due to planned project activities. The identified gaps will thereby lead to derive an environmental and social management and action plan (with timelines & responsibilities) to address these gaps. ARCADIS has followed following steps to achieve the above mentioned approach: 1. Preliminary Discussion with project Proponent: At this stage size and location of the project, scheduled date of site visits, scope of work, timelines for report submissions, concerned point of contacts are understood from the project proponent through an official meeting or a conference call whatever is convenient. List of further information required such as status of applications made, clearances obtained, project schedule, proposed plant layout, topo sheets, WTG specifications, noise curves etc. is formally requested from project proponent. 2. Desktop Review of the project Area: After confirming the project area and site location, review of the site area is made using readily available sources such as google earth, google maps, GIS, land use maps of the area. With the help of desktop review, assessment is made on how the site/project and its components such as proposed WTG locations, pooling substation, transmission line etc. are located with reference to the nearby villages, forest areas, bird sanctuaries, or any other protected areas (if any), major water bodies, rivers, national and state highways, commercial and defence airports (if any). 3. Review of relevant Secondary information: Secondary information on geology, hydrology, prevailing natural hazards like floods, earthquakes etc. have been collected from literature reviews and authenticated information made available by government departments. Primary surveys were carried out to understand and record the biological environment prevailing in the area and the same was verified by the forest officials and against published information and literature. The socioeconomic environment has been studied through consultations with various stakeholders within the site. Additionally, socioeconomic data have been obtained from the Census of India 2011 report. 4. Site Investigation through site visit: After gaining a fair idea from the desktop review of the project area, a team of experienced professionals which typically includes an environmental

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expert cum biodiversity expert, a social expert and a language translator (if required) visits the project area for site reconnaissance and consultations with relevant stakeholders such as project area related community, project developers, relevant government offices such as local forest department office, Revenue department office etc. 5. To understand and assess the environmental and social risks associated with the project the study area was divided into core area (500 m around each of the WTG location) and buffer area (5 km around each of the WTG location). a. Investigation of Project Components: After getting the exact locations of different project components such as proposed WTG components, PSS, GSS, proposed transmission line, proposed land for batching plant and labour camps, the environmental and biodiversity expert visits all the project component locations along with the site representative from developers. To verify the locations, professionals use GPS to track exact locations of project component. While visit to every location, careful visual observation is made in the surrounding to notice if there are any sensitive receptors like residential houses, villages, major water bodies, or other structures like high tension line, main roads located within nearby surroundings of a project component. Further, observations are also made pertaining to what is the land use of the area i.e. agricultural or barren, private or government, whether assigned by local/ state government to some vulnerable communities, whether a reserved forest land etc. All the aforementioned observations are noted in a standard format for reference which is used during report preparation. WTG locations located close to any sensitive receptors are selected for noise and shadow flicker modelling to further ascertain whether concerned WTG locations will have noise and shadow flicker impact on nearby receptors identified during site visit. b. Sampling for Environmental Baselining: While selecting locations for primary monitoring of air, noise, water, soil and meteorology emphasis is given to collect the representative baseline data. Monitoring stations for air and noise were selected in proximity to the WTG locations as well as approach roads and settlements. Closeness to the sensitive receptors were considered for selecting noise and air monitoring locations. Monitoring locations for surface water quality was selected based on the macro and micro watershed and drainage pattern of the area. Soil sample collection locations were selected based on the land use & land cover of the study area. c. Biodiversity Assessment: While travelling across different project area the biodiversity expert observes and notes the nature of habitat, local flora & fauna, mammal &reptile species and avifaunal species present in the project area. The faunal survey focused mainly on three groups viz. mammals, avifauna and herpeto fauna of the study area. Special emphasis was given on Avian fauna, as birds have a potential vulnerability of getting hit by rotating blade. Major water bodies present within the project study area are visited during sunrise and sunset hours to observe the diversity of avifaunal species present in the project area. In general, area within 5 km radius of the project site is considered for biodiversity assessment. If there are any forest areas, bird sanctuaries or wetlands located within the project area or the project located within the buffer zone of any protected area then the biodiversity expert makes visit to such ecologically important areas to have further observations. Further, to gain more information about mammal and avifaunal species of the project area, visit is made to local forest department and interviews are conducted with the concerned officials. d. Community Consultations: The social expert identifies the project related villages and conducts village community consultations in presence of site representatives. During community consultations, baseline information of villages pertaining to population, different castes, presence of any vulnerable communities, availability of water and electricity, schools

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and primary health clinics, general occupation of local people, other income sources etc. is gathered. During consultation, the social experts tries to understand the probable perspective of village communities towards a proposed project. Depending on the status of the land procurement and approval of project developer, the social expert also conducts consultation with existing land owners, whose land has been identified for project components. While consultation with land owners, attempt is made to assess whether negotiations with land sellers were made in good faith and on what basis land is being purchased for the proposed project. Further, it is assessed whether any land seller is getting land less, whether any land owned by a person from any vulnerable communities involved in the project. Consultation were also held with the assignees of assigned lands, for the lands resumed through appropriate govt. authority following all rules and regulations. Following a Social Safeguard Compliance Audit was undertaken to assess if any project unduced impact due to the land resumption was affecting the livelihood of the assignees. e. Consultation with concerned Government offices: Visit to respective government departments e.g. health department, panchayat office, teachers, health workers etc. is undertaken to collect information for the proposed project site and the stakeholders involved with the project. f. Consultation with project developer: Concerned persons from developers land team and construction team are interviewed to understand the land procurement process, project construction schedule, estimated workers required during construction and operations, plans for arrangement of water required during construction and operation, procedures to address occupational health and safety, waste management plan, emergency response plan etc. g. Identification of Potential Environmental and Social Impacts: The assessment process has taken into consideration the impacts due to project sitting, land preparation, and construction and operation of the project. The risks and impacts of the proposed wind power project has been assessed on the social and physical environment. To study the environmental and social impact, study area was divided into core area and buffer area based on the extent of influence of project activities. Primary impacts are assessed for a radius of 500m around the project site and secondary impacts are assessed beyond this radius for the proposed project. Also, 100 m RoW along the transmission line route is also considered for impact assessment. The Environmental & Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) has been taken into consideration for the following:

- Applicable National Regulations;

- IFC’s Performance Standards; - Outcomes of the community consultation; - Baseline environmental monitoring; - IFC General EHS Guidelines. h. Development of Project Specific Environmental and Social Management Plan: The project related activities are understood through desktop review of documents like permits/clearances (if any), maps, etc. and reconnaissance survey to the project location and surrounding area was conducted for familiarization with the project location. The site setting and sensitivities (if any) was surveyed during November 2016 for the WTG locations. This was followed by identifying environmental and social risks associated with the project with respect to applicable national regulations and IFC performance standards. The review and findings were assessed to identify gaps in addressing identified environmental or social risks and

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identifying additional risks (if any) due to planned project activities. The identified gaps will thereby lead to derive an environmental and social management and action plan (with timelines & responsibilities) to address these gaps. ARCADIS has followed following steps to achieve the above mentioned approach:

1.5.2 Methodology ARCADIS has adopted following methodology to prepare the ESIA report:

 Formulation of a team of environmental, ecologists and social experts,  Carrying out kick-off meetings with ReNew to arrive at a common understanding and consensus on all important project aspects, for efficient and effective delivery of the assignment’s needs and objectives,  Desktop review of basic project details and site conditions and collection of relevant secondary information,  Arcadis team first visited site during November 2016, to assess the site in early stage of construction stage.  Assessment of the project compliance with respect to IFC’s performance standards,  Conducting detailed site visits, meetings, monitoring and consultations with project management & stakeholders, review and gather relevant documents and records,  Analysis of all the information gathered during the site visits, consultations and meetings,  Carrying out worst case noise and shadow flicker modelling and assessment for the proposed WTGs,  Carrying out detailed impact assessment for the proposed project,  Discussion on identified tasks in Environment & Social Management Plan & resources needed for the same,  Internal review of the ESIA report followed by incorporation of the suggestions,  Submission of the ESIA report to ReNew.  Arcadis team again visited site on November 2017 to assess the project on ground situation after the project is commissioned and for real time shadow and noise modeling. The study and report is based on the project specific information and documents provided by project proponent, site survey observations and community consultation. Presented information and fact has been analyzed and inferences has been drawn through professional judgment.

1.6 ESIA Team

ARCADIS has mobilized a diverse team of multidisciplinary experts for conducting the ESIA study. A number of these experts has accredited professionals by Quality Council of India to conduct regulatory EIA. These experts have provided consultancy services to over 75 wind power projects across India with over 5000 MW in installed capacity. The experts have been continuously working with funding agency, who understand the modalities and procedures of evaluating and addressing environment and social risk associated with large scale investment.

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2 Project Description

2.1 Project Site Settings

The project area is mostly agricultural area, mixed with open scrubland & uncultivated land. The terrain of the site is flat with some undulations. The soil is granular in nature comprising of red and black soil. There are other established wind power projects in the region which are located 10 Km from the proposed site. The district of Anantapur has a fairly good elevation with a semi-arid climate, hot and dry condition for most of the year. As mentioned in district profile of Anantapur, there is a gradual rise in Hindupur, Parigi, Lepakshi, Chilamathur, Agali, Rolla and Madakasira Mandals in the South to join the Karnataka Plateau where the average elevation is about 2000 feet above the mean sea level (approximately 610 AMSL). The elevation of project site is about 548 AMSL. Topography of the proposed project site is shown in the photograph below. Contour map and Digital Elevation Map (DEM) map has been shown in Figure 2-2 and Figure 2-3. The location and geographical position of the Anantapur district in the Deccan Peninsula render it to be the driest part of the state. It does not receive full benefits of north east monsoon due to its far location from east coast and high Western Ghats also cut it off from the south west monsoon showers. Due to this the agricultural conditions are not suitable throughout the year. The district is drought prone. Most important river in the district is the Penna River. Penna river flows through west of the project site. The minimum distance from the river bank to the nearest WTG is 2 kms. The river is seasonal in nature. Its origin is in the Nandi Hills of Karnataka, enters the Anantapur district from the extreme south of Hindupur mandal and flows through 12 mandals including Kanaganapalley and Ramagiri. The Penna River traverses through the project site.

Topography of Proposed Project Site

Hillocks Agricultural Field

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Barren Stoney land Scrub land

Hillocks Scrub land

2.2 Site Accessibility

Anantapur town is located east of the project site, on National Highway 44 (previously NH 7), between Hyderabad and Bangalore. NH 44 is a part of the North South Corridor of Indian road system. Anantapur is about 230km North of Bangalore, and about 200km from Bangalore International Airport (Kemegowda International Airport). Anantapur is about 369km south of Hyderabad. Kalyandurg is about 60km west from Anantapur via Kalyandurgam road. Site can be approached from NH 44 (previously NH 7) by taking N.S. Gate exit about 50km south of Annantapur and then travelling west on N.S. gate – Kambadur road via Ramgiri. Again Site can be approached from Kalyandurg via Kalyandurg-Hindupur highway till Kambadur and then from Kambadur via Kambadur-N.S. Gate road till Peruru village. Nearest railway station near the project site is at Anantapur. New rail line is being laid between Bangalore and Ballery, under construction tracks are passing through the study area. On an average under construction train line is about 500m west of the project site. Nearest major port is at Chennai, which is about 400km by road. Access to the site is presented in the Figure 2-1 below.

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N.S. Gate – Kambadur Road Road within Peruru Village

Road within site National Highway 44 (Previously NH 7)

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Figure 2-1: Accessibility Map of Project Site

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Figure 2-2: Contour Map of Project Site

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Figure 2-3: DEM Map of Project Site

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2.3 WTG Profiling & Technology

Based on availability of land through willing buyer willing seller method and based on feedback of ESIA study, 48 WTG locations were developed for the project.. The WTG locations were visited and profiling of surrounding area of 500 m around each WTG was carried out and sensitive receptors were identified. The project include two pooling substation (PSS) and one grid substation (GSS). All the substation locations were visited and sensitive receptors (if any) were noted. During November 2016, route of transmission line was not finalized, transmission line was surveyed during November 2017, after the project was commissioned. Profiling of the WTGs and other component of the projects has been carried out using scientific equipment such as GPS, camera and satellite maps of the area was referred for during the site visit. Detailed WTG profiling has been provided in Appendix A.

2.3.1 Wind Turbine - Technical Details & Design Suzlon supplied 48 number of “Suzlon – S-97” model WTG. The Suzlon S-97 is covered in the list of wind turbine models possessing valid type approval/certificates as published by National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) under “Main List” of “Models & Manufacturers of Wind Turbines” dated 15.05.2015. The type approval certificate is valid till 12th April 2018. The technical concept and specification of the S-97 model has been presented in Table 2-1 below.

Table 2-1: Mean Annual Wind Speed & WPD at Project Site

PROPERTIES OF THE MODEL

ROTOR Suzlon S-97

Diameter 97 m

Swept area 7,390 m²

Rotational speed 11.8 - 17.7 rpm

BLADES

Number of blades 3

Type SB47

Length 47.5 m

Airfoils Suzlon

Material E-glass reinforced Epoxy, Vaccum-injected

TOWER

Type Hybrid tower (lattice tower, adapter, tubular tower)

Height 116.3 m

GEAR BOX

Type 1 planetary stage, 2 helical stages

Ratio 1:98.8

GENERATOR

Type Slip ring asynchronous generator

Rated power 2.1 MW

Frequency 50 Hz

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Protection class IP 54 (slip ring IP 23)

Power factor Variable; 0.94 cap.; from 1 to 0.94 ind.

2.4 Power Evacuation

During November 2016, EISA study power evacuation was in a conceptual phase. During construction, Suzlon has installed Veerbhandra Pooling Substation (PSS) near WTG VRB17. Power from Veerbhandra PSS is being evacuated through a 7.04 km long newly constructed 220kV transmission line, to Ralla PSS, operated by Suzlon. APTRANSCO will be providing connectivity to this project for evacuating power for the proposed wind farm. From Ralla Substation power will be evacuated through 220 KV line to APTRANSCO grid substation, under construction at Borampalley. Total 24 HT poles are erected on ground to support the 7.04 km long transmsission line, between the two PSS. Land for transmission line has been procured from Vepakunta, Maddalacheruva, Sivapuram, P.R. Kottala, Kottapalli villages under Perur and K. N. Palyam Panchayat. On an average 6-10 cents land has been procured for each towers of high tension transmission on 25 years lease. Entire length of the transmission line has passed over agricultural land, No settlement is located within 1km of the transmission line.

Grid Substation under Construction

Under Construction Grid Substatation at Identifies land for Pooling Substation near WTG Borampalley VRB17

Suzlon’s site office at Main Store Yard Ongoing Construction at VRB 44

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Main Store Yard Blade Store Yard

2.5 Resource Requirement

2.5.1 Land During ESIA site visit as informed by the project proponent that total 48 WTG locations have been developed. Private and assigned lands were taken through proper negotiation and procedure respectively. As information shared by the project proponent around 72.5 acres of private land were procured. Also around 65.54 acres acres of assigned lands were resumed through appropriate govt. authority following proper procedure and rules.

 28.3 acres land has been leased for 1 year, adjacent to N.S. Gate- Kambadur PWD road, adjacent to WTG VRB46 as storage yard to keep WTG components apart from blades.  To store blade, 6.06 acres of land is leased for 1 year near WTG VBR17, to set up a blade store yard.  Total 7.04km long transmission line is erected to evacuate power from Veerbhandra PSS to Ralla PSS. Land for transmission line has been procured from Vepakunta, Maddalacheruva, Sivapuram, P.R. Kottala, Kottapalli villages under Perur and K. N. Palyam Panchayat covering 7.04 Km., from PSS to GSS at Ralla. Total 2.5 acres land has been procured for 24 towers of high tension transmission on 25 years lease. During site visit as informed by the land owners due to the escalating cost for cultivation and rising labour cost, profit from Agriculture is gradually declining. Moreover, as informed by the land owner, they also face financial crisis during the time of dire needs like children’s higher education or marriage or even for some other graver cause. Hence, the farmers and land owners were trying to look for more ensured profiting and supporting options. Land Registration for 48 locations has been completed till the time of the study, based on negotiation with land seller through land aggregator. The private land purchased is a mix of non-cultivated, dry open scrub and agricultural land which is cultivated only once during monsoon. It is to be noted that the area is very dry and devoid of rain during rest of the year. ST land for WTG location: Based on the interview the concerned official from the local Gram Panchayat President, Government of Andhra Pradesh has notified ST/SC land identified in government records. Such land, which is notified in records as ST/SC land cannot be purchased by any private company. If any applications for registration of such notified SC/ST land reported to be on process of buying by any private company then such registration requests are not accepted. It should be noted

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that if a person from SC/ST community purchases/owns a private land, which is not present in the notified SC/ST lands then that SC/ST person has rights to sell such land to a private company or a non- SC/ST person. As reported by the land team of Suzlon, none of the land sellers are from SC/ ST Community.

PS 7 of IFC and ADB’s Indigenous Peoples policy is not triggered. Land for access road: The access road is of approximately 8-10 m in width. As required an exclusive access road was built to the construction/ operation site for mobilization of manpower and machinery. The construction of access road is linked with village main road and district major road. The access road has been developed on procured private land. All WTG location are connected through access roads Land for transmission line & PSS: As per the information provided by ReNew, about 12.3 acres of land has been procured for PSS. Land for transmission line has been procured from Vepakunta, Maddalacheruva, Sivapuram, P.R. Kottala, Kottapalli villages under Peruru and K. N. Palyam Panchayat covering 7.04 Km., from PSS to GSS at Ralla. Total 2.5 acres land has been procured for 24 towers of high tension transmission on 25 years lease. As information given by the project developer the lands for transmission towers were taken on lease against a one-time amount at the rate of INR 100,000 per tower. Land sellers for transmission line has been consulted. As informed by the land owners, since most of the area is facing drought like situation and the lands are almost agriculturally less productive it has become non -profiting to them. It was revealed during consultation that they are satisfied with the lease amount they have received aginst the leased lands. Land Procurement/ resumption brief:

During site visit and dialogues with ReNew and Suzlon land team it was also confirmed that:

 Private land was purchased on good faith negotiation as the frist priority for attaining the required amount of land;

 Assigned lands were also resumed through appropriate govt. authority following all the rules, regulations and process. Followingly a Social Safeguard Compliance Audit was also undertaken by ReNew to assess whether there is any project induced impact on the livelihood of the assignees. Through the study it was ascertained that there is no such impact. It is recommended that documentation related to land purchase and resumption should be maintained. Brief general procedure of land purchase is as follows:

 Land at or near suitable locations are identified through proper govt. authority (NREDACAP) by Suzlon land team based on micro siting.

 Both private and assigned lands are involved in the project.

 Suzlon land team identifies the private land owners and completed negotiation process.

 Both buyer and seller has agreed to mutual agreement. In the course of negotiation, the land seller and/or the aggregator has submitted land related details and documents to the Suzlon land team.

 Legal team of Suzlon did detailed due diligence before the land were identified and finalised.

 After the land is cleared by Suzlon legal team, an agreement to sale comes into being between the willing seller and willing buyer.

38 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

 Upon completion of successful “sale deed” Suzlon possesses the land and starts the development process.

 Post construction of the WTG, the locations are offered to ReNew by Suzlon.

 The locations will be again subjected to due diligence by ReNew legal team. Following that a Social Safeguard Compliance Audit was made from ReNew.

 After the due diligence and Social Safeguard Comliance Audit the locations are transfered Post Commissioning and the WTG location came under the possession of ReNew.

 Though Suzlon was assigned and continuing with the operation & maintanance of the project.

As land procurement is finalized, ReNew provided the total land related information available to them to the consultant team. Only land details for locations has been provided to the Consultants.

Andhra Pradesh Wind Power Policy, 2015 As per Andhra Pradesh Wind Power Policy, 2015 orders issued regarding the provide land to developers for wind project setup in the state A.P. is as following-

“As per Category I, projects set up in government / revenue lands or forest areas or assigned lands and also in private lands selling power within the State Power generated from the wind power projects installed entirely or partly on government/ revenue land or forest areas shall be for sale within the State only”. The Govt. of A.P. may consider proposals for allotment of revenue land if available at the wind power potential areas on first come first serve basis- based on recommendation of NREDCAP, as per the provisions of New Land Allotment Policy announced by the Government vide G.O. Ms. No: 571, dated: 14-09-2012 of Revenue (Assignment-I) Department. To facilitate faster execution of projects, the district collector has handed over advance possession of land including pathways to NREDCAP and the futher allocated in the joint name of NREDCAP and the Developer. The concerned district collector after taking into account all the necessary undertakings of land proposal has given permission the developer to start the construction. NREDCAP shall withdraw its rights from the land once the project gets commissioned. In case of forest areas, the developers shall submit the application through the Nodal Agency to the forest department, to consider for allotment as per the guidelines/regulations laid down by the forest department from time to time. If the wind farm is set up in private land then the Eligible Developer shall procure the land from the land holder on their own.

2.5.2 Water The domestic water demand (comprising of drinking and flushing) for the construction workers was estimated be about 36 m3/day (@ 120 liter per capita per day (lpcd) for 300 workers) for max 6-7 months. Water requirement for concreting and curing activities was around 80 m3 and 50 m3 per foundation respectively, totaling to 130 m3 per foundation. Base on information provided by ReNew, tanker water was be used for construction purposes.

Table 2-2: Water Required during Construction Phase

S. No. Area Approximate Quantity Source Various WTG During 1 foundation and 130 m3 per WTG Tanker water Construction construction activities

39 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

S. No. Area Approximate Quantity Source 4.45m3/day (considering Domestic water Tanker water & 2 regular and peak labour requirement packaged/ filtered water requirement) During Domestic water Tanker water & 3 2-3 m3/day operation requirement packaged/filtered water

2.5.3 Workforce Approximate 300 nos. of workers was deployed by the contractor on temporary basis including security personnel (mostly local) during construction phase. As informed, the contractor workforce comprised of both skilled and unskilled labours. However during the operations phase, a number of personnel was deployed on site that includes technical personnel and security guards. It was informed by Suzlon that there were no labour camp on site. They added that skilled labour, who may come from outside project area stayed at an arranged accommodation arrangement by ReNew in Peruru, Ramagiri and Kanaganapalle villages. Hence, the project did not involve setting up of labour camps.

2.6 Project Implementation Status

48 locations were finalized for setting up WTG, considering environmental as well social sensitivities. By November 2017 all 48 WTG locations were installed, along with Veerbhandra pooling substation. Power generation and power evacuation has started from the project site. Power is being evacuated via 220kV transmission line from Veerbhandra Pooling substation to Ralla pooling substation. Both of these two substations are operated and maintained by Suzlon. SGA study was conducted to assess whether any impact was induced due to the land taken/resumed for the projectc In addition to WTG location two parcel of land of 28.3 acres and 6.06 acres have been leased for 1 year for main store yard and blade store yard respectively.

2.7 Other Projects

Suzlon is developing close to 200 MW Wind Power project for Ostro Power, along the northan and western boundary of proposed Veerbhandra Project. Greenko is developing a wind power site about 15 KM North West, and has an existing site about 15KM north. There is cluster of old and new WTG site existing about 11 KM south east of the Veerbhandra site near Ramagiri village.

40 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

3 SOCIAL & ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS

This section describes the regulations, statutory guidelines and obligatory standards that are applicable to the social and environmental performance of the proposed project.

3.1 National Regulations, Social & Environmental Performance Standards of IFC and ADB Safeguards

The environmental and safety related national regulations and IFC performance standards that are applicable for the wind power plants are discussed below.

Table 3-1: Applicable EHS Regulations – Summary Table

S. No Act/Guidelines/Policy/Govt. Orders Applicability The Water (Prevention and Control of Not Applicable as insignificant pollution would be 1 Pollution) Act 1974 generated by the project. Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) As per Andhra Pradesh Wind Power Policy, dated 13.02.2015, Section 8, Item J (Pollution Clearance) - 2 Act 1981 Wind power projects will be exempted from obtaining any NOC/Consent for establishment for pollution control laws from AP Pollution Control Board. Central Pollution Control Board guideline dated 3 The Water Cess Act 1977 and Rules 07.03.2016, exempts wind power project from requirement of CTO. Applicable This is an Act to provide the protection and Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 as improvement of the environment. The EPA Act 1986 4 amended relate to the implementation of protection and improvement of environment and prevention of hazards to human beings, other living creatures, plants and property. The Wildlife Protection Act 1972 aims at protecting the plants and wildlife of our country. This act will be applicable as the area is rich in avifauna and some mammal species. As per NWAP (2012-2016) the action plan indicates 5 Wildlife Protection Act 1972 & that all identified areas around the protected area and wild life corridors to be declared as ecologically National Wildlife Action Plan (2012-2016) fragile under EPA 1986. The proposed project site is not close to any protected area, wild life sanctuaries or national parks. The nearest wildlife sanctuary is Jayamangala wild life sanctuary located about 72 kms from the project site. So it is not applicable. Indian Forest Act 1927 & Forest If WTG are set up in side forest land, nessary forest 6 (Protection) Act 1980 as amended. clearance will be taken. Applicable.

Although nominal quantities of waste oil is likely to be Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling generated during operation and maintenance of DG 7 & Transboundary Movement) Rules 2008 set, which need to be managed in accordance to the as amended HWMH Rules. The generated waste managed to be disposed through authorized recyclers approved by SPCB. Applicable. Contract Labour (Regulation & Abolition) 8 Act 1970 and Rules It is the responsibility of EPC contractor to have valid license and ensure provision of appropriate welfare

41 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

S. No Act/Guidelines/Policy/Govt. Orders Applicability measures viz. arrangement for sanitation facilities, drinking water, first aid etc. for the onsite contractual workers & labourers. In addition ReNew as principal employer needs to obtain registration certificate from EPC contractor for undertaking project work. Applicable. This Act provides for the safety, health and welfare measures of building and construction workers in every establishment which employs or employed during the preceding year ten or more such workers. The Building and Other Construction These measures include fixing hours for normal Workers’ (Regulation of Employment and working day, weekly paid rest day, wages for 9 Conditions of Service) Act 1996 overtime, provision of basic welfare amenities like drinking water, latrines, urinals, crèches, first aid, canteens etc. and provision of temporary living accommodation within or near work site. As discussed for the Contract Labour Act the provision for this Act also need to be complied by the EPC contractor & its subcontractors for the project. Applicable. 10 The Minimum Wages Act 1948 Applicable to the project.as ReNew and its contractor Suzlon is going to employ labourers both for construction and operation phase of the project. 11 The Payment of Wages Act 1948 Applicable for the project. Applicable. The objective of this Act is that in the case of an employment injury compensation be provided to the Workmen Compensation Act 1923 and 12 injured workman and in case of his death to his Rules dependents. Hence any injury or death of workmen that may arise under any accidental circumstance during the proposed project development need to be compensated under the provision of the is Act Distance between WEGs As per the new guidelines, the distance between the proposed WEG with adjacent existing WEG, if any, or an existing application with RERC, for a proposed WEG, formed in row should be at least five times (5D) the diameter of the rotor. Row should be formed Micro-siting Guidelines for Wind Power in such way that it is perpendicular to the 13 Projects predominant wind direction. The distance between the rows should be at least seven times diameter (7D) of the Rotor, so that performance of the WEGs should not be affected in any manner. Considering a rotor diameter is 97 m of the WEG the distance between two adjacent WEGs for the proposed need to be kept at least 485m while the distance between two WEG rows in maintained at 679. Applicable Para 67 & 68 give provision for granting license to project proponent to break-up any utility area like roads, railway line, sewage lines, drain or tunnel to Electricity Act 2003, relevant para- lay the transmission lines. This is required to install 14 electricity Laws, section 67, 68 & 69 poles and lattice structures and laying of transmission lines. The Act says that ‘…the consent in writing of the appropriate government, local authority, owner or occupier as the case may be shall be required for carrying out the work.’ This applies to agricultural land as well.

42 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

S. No Act/Guidelines/Policy/Govt. Orders Applicability Not Applicable as the proposed project does not involve land acquisition. As per section 3 and 46 (1) of The Right To Fair The Right To Fair Compensation And Compensation And Transparency In Land Transparency In Land Acquisition, Acquisition, Rehabilitation And Resettlement Act, Rehabilitation And Resettlement Act, 2013 2013 of Govt. of India, R & R will be applicable only And when any person and company purchased land 15 Andhra Pradesh Right to Fair through private negotiation for an area equal to or Compensation and more than limits as notified by the state Govt. as per Andhra Pradesh Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Rules, Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and 2014 Resettlement Rules, 2014. Specified limit of purchasing land by a company is 5000 acre. In this proposed project total purchased land is less than specified limit of 5000 acre.

Table 3-2 Permitting & Compliance for the Proposed Project

S. No Permit Authority Remarks Wind power projects are exempted from obtaining Ministry of an environmental clearance (EC) from Ministry of Environmental Environment, 1 Environment, Forest and Climate Change Clearance Forest & Climate (MoEFCC), as per the EIA notification, 2006 and its Change (MoEFCC) subsequent amendments Forest Clearance 2 from MoEFCC/ Forest Department . Not Applicable State Government Transmission Corporation of Required for the project. Approval will be obtained Power evacuation 3 Andhra Pradesh by ReNew from APTRANSCO for evacuation of approval Limited power, for the project. (APTRANSCO) Not required for the project. As per Andhra Pradesh Wind Power Policy, dated 13.02.2015, Section 8, Item J (Pollution Clearance) - Wind power projects will be exempted from Consent to Andhra Pradesh obtaining any NOC/Consent for establishment for 4 Establish (CTE) Pollution Control pollution control laws from AP Pollution Control Board (APPCB) Board. Reference Andhra Pradesh Wind Power Policy, dated 13.02.2015, Section 8, Item J (Pollution Clearance) –is attached as Appendix B. Not required for the project. As per Andhra Pradesh Wind Power Policy, dated 13.02.2015, Section 8, Item J (Pollution Clearance) - Wind power projects will be exempted from obtaining any NOC/Consent for establishment for pollution control laws from AP Pollution Control Consent to Operate 5 APPCB Board. (CTO) Reference Andhra Pradesh Wind Power Policy, dated 13.02.2015, Section 8, Item J (Pollution Clearance) –is attached as Appendix B. Central Pollution Control Board guideline dated 07.03.2016, exempts wind power project from requirement of CTO. Required for the project as change in land use from NOC state nodal Industry 6 agriculture to industry is required for establishing agency Commissioner/R.O. the project.

43 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

S. No Permit Authority Remarks NOC State State Electricity 7 Required for the project prior to grid connection. Electricity Board Commission The contractor will need to abide by the following laws and ReNew will have to ensure that it is being done as they are the principle employer: The Workmen's Compensation Act, 1923; The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961; The Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of 8 Contractor permits Project Developer Service) Act, 1996; The Contract Labour Act, 1970; The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986; The Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act 1976; The Minimum Wages Act, 1948; and The Equal Remuneration Act 1976. Land procurement/ 9 Project Developer Completed resumption No Objection Taken from the Gram Panchayats of the villages 10 Certificate from the Gram Panchayats from whom land are purchased/ resumed for the Gram Panchayat development of the project.

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector in developing countries. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) Environmental & Social Performance Standards (“IFC Standards”) have become the global benchmark for corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability in project financing. While the IFC Standards originated in relation to projects financed by the World Bank, they are now used by all financial institutions around the globe that have signed up to the “Equator Principles”, accounting for a substantial proportion of global project finance. The IFC Standards (Performance Standards and Equator Principles) updated 2012 edition of IFC's Sustainability Framework applies to all investment and advisory clients whose projects go through IFC's initial credit review process after January 1, 2012. It establish a private regulatory framework in respect of labour and working conditions; environmental practices; workplace health & safety; community health, safety and security; land acquisition and involuntary resettlement; relations with indigenous communities, and preservation of cultural heritage. In addition to the express guidelines of the IFC Standards themselves, adherents must meet the requirements of local and international laws in these areas, regardless of whether such laws are regularly or consistently enforced by local governmental institutions. Hence the standard has been chosen to evaluate the project activity. The International Finance Corporation has laid down a set of eight Performance Standards that the project developers need to comply with while establishing the project. The provisions of the Performance Standards relevant to the wind power project are summarized below:

44 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Table 3-3: IFC Performance Standards & Applicability to the Project

Title of Performance Standard Objective Applicability PS 1 establishes the importance of: The PS 1 is applicable for the proposed project with environment and/or social risks and/or impacts. The proposed project will have Integrated assessment to identify the E & S impacts, risks and environmental and social impacts such as generation of noise and opportunities of projects. PS 1: Social and Environmental generation of small quantities of hazardous wastes (operation of DG sets etc.). PS 1 is therefore applicable for the project which Assessment and Management requires an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Systems Effective community engagement through disclosure of project related information & consultation with local communities study to be conducted before commencement of the project. ReNew will implement their own Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) to manage the risks associated with Management of E & S performance throughout the life of the its operations. project by the project developer. To promote the fair treatment, non-discrimination, and equal opportunity of workers, To establish, maintain, and improve the worker management The PS2 is applicable for the project as the project developer is relationships going to employ labours for both the phases-construction as well To promote compliance with national employment and labour laws as operation. The labours are deployed by developer Suzlon. PS 2: Labour and Working Conditions To protect workers, including vulnerable categories of workers Suzlon should follow the requirements of IFC guidelines and such as child workers, migrant workers, workers engaged by International Labour Organization (ILO) guidelines for worker client or third party, accommodation. The ILO worker accommodation requirements To promote safe and healthy working conditions and the health of are attached as Appendix C of this report. workers and To avoid use of forced labour The PS is applicable as the project will utilize resources like land, water and power. Private land will be purchased on point basis for To avoid or minimize adverse impacts on human erection of the WTGs. Tanker water will be used for construction health and environment by avoiding or minimizing pollution from purposes. Access road will be constructed for the movement of PS 3: Resource Efficiency and project activities, the vehicles like trailor trucks, equipment loaded trucks, tractors Pollution Prevention To promote sustainable use of resources, including energy and and other small vehicles for loading, unloading and inspecting the water, erection of the WTGs during construction phase. This will generate some dust emission as the area is arid in nature which To reduce project related GHG emissions. can be mitigated by adopting suitable mitigation measures as recommended in ESMP.

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Title of Performance Standard Objective Applicability The PS is applicable as the project invloves movement of vehicles on the approach road passing through villages. Precautionary measures need to be taken to avoid accidents/incidents. The To anticipate and avoid adverse impacts on the health and safety project also envisages influx of labours for migrant labours are of the Affected Community during the project life from both routine coming from different places during construction phase. Conflict and non-routine circumstances; and among labours and breakout out of any diseases due to mixing PS 4: Community Health, Safety with local community can possess a risk for the proposed project and Security To ensure that the safeguarding of personnel and property is carried out in accordance with relevant human rights principles and thereof community health and safety need to be taken care by and in a manner that avoids or minimizes risks to the Affected the project developer, ensuring safety measures to be put in place Communities. both during construction and operation phase of the project. Also during operation phase noise generated from the WTG as well as shadow flickering due to movement of blade might have some adverse health effect on the local community. The Project Proponent as well as the Developer has assured that all the required private lands are bought from land owners through land aggregator on willing to sell and willing to buy basis. Till the date of the visit of the ESIA Team, registration has been To avoid, and when avoidance is not possible, minimize finalised for WTG locations only. It was confirmed through following displacement by exploring alternative project designs; evidences viz. consultation with representative of project To avoid forced eviction; proponent, representative of developer, landowners or discussed with land aggregator etc. It is assumed that, none of the private land To anticipate and avoid, or where avoidance is not possible, procurement has any chance of triggering PS 5 of IFC. minimize adverse social and economic impacts from land acquisition or restrictions on land use by (i) providing Assigned lands were also resumed through appropriate govt. authority following all the rules, regulations and process. PS 5: Land Acquisition and compensation for loss of assets at replacement cost4 and (ii) ensuring that resettlement activities are implemented with Followingly a Social Safeguard Compliance Audit was also Involuntary Resettlement appropriate disclosure of information, consultation, and the undertaken by ReNew to assess whether there is any project informed participation of those affected, induced impact on the livelihood of the assignees. Through the study it was ascertained that there is no such impact. To improve or restore the livelihoods and standards of living of the displaced persons To ascertain if any project induced impact was generated due to the land resumed for the project a third party Social Safeguard To improve living conditions among physically displaced persons Compliance Audit was conducted. ReNew appointed Arcadis as the through provisioning of adequate housing with security of tenure the third part consultant for conducting the study. It was found in at resettlement sites. Audit study there is no adverse impact on livelihood of the assignees of the land resumed from the assigneed land. During ESIA Study the revenue lands those are identified for WTG locations and also informed by the representative of the project proponent and the land developer has any kind of human activity,

46 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Title of Performance Standard Objective Applicability i.e. like habitation, agriculture or grazing etc. Hence, the revenue lands also may not trigger PS 5 of IFC. This PS is applicable for the project. To protect and conserve biodiversity Schedule I species (WPA, 1972) like Black buck were recorded PS 6: Biodiversity Conservation To maintain the benefits from the ecosystem service, during site visit. More over other wild animals like sloth bear and and Sustainable Management of To promote the sustainable management of living resources jackel are present in the reserve forests around the project site as Living Natural Resources through the adoption of practices that integrates conservation per consultation with the forest officials and villagers. needs and development activities. An ecological management plan or Habitat management Plan must be prepared due to the presence of Schedule I species. To ensure that the development process fosters full respect for the human rights, dignity, aspirations, culture, and natural resource-based livelihoods of Indigenous Peoples; To anticipate and avoid adverse impacts of projects on communities of Indigenous Peoples, or when avoidance is not possible, to minimize and/or compensate for such impacts; To promote sustainable development benefits and opportunities During site vist consultation with Panchyet member and the for Indigenous Peoples in culturally appropriate manner; Project Proponent has ensured that no SC/ ST land are taken, PS 7: Indigenous Peoples To establish and maintain an ongoing relationship based on neither any of their assets are being affected for the 100.8 MW Informed Consultation and Participation(ICP) with the Indigenous wind Power Project. Peoples affected by a project throughout the project’s life- cycle; Hence, PS 7 not be applicable. To ensure the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) of the Affected Communities of Indigenous Peoples when the circumstances described in this Performance Standard are present; and To respect and preserve the culture, knowledge, and practices of Indigenous Peoples. The PS is not applicable as there is no impact anticipated on the cultural heritage of the proposed project site due to the project To protect cultural heritage from the adverse impacts of project activities. No monument or structure of religious importance were activities and support its preservation; and PS 8: Cultural Heritage observed within 500m from the nearest WTG. Chance finding To promote the equitable sharing of benefits from the use of procedure should be applied during construction phase for the cultural heritage. proposed project. PS 8 is not appilcable.

The project has been planned and initiated in line with the requirement of ADB safeguards. A brief description of safeguard requirement and project details is given in table below:

47 Draft ESIA of 100.8 MW Veerbhandra Wind Farm Project

Table 3-4: ADB Safeguards and Compliance

ADB Policy Objective Project Details ADB’S SAFEGUARD ADB’s safeguard policy framework consists of three Operational policies on the POLICY STATEMENT environment, Indigenous Peoples and involuntary resettlement. (2009) Environmental Safeguards: To ensure the environmental soundness and The present ESIA study encompasses identification of sustainability of projects and to support the integration of environmental environmental sensitivity and potential risks to physical, considerations into the project decision-making process. biological, socioeconomic (including impacts on livelihood through environmental media, health and safety, vulnerable groups, and gender issues), and physical cultural resources in the context of the project’s area of influence. Recommendation of environment management plan and mitigation measures. Involuntary Resettlement Safeguards Private land purchased was devoid of structures or To avoid involuntary resettlement wherever possible; to minimize involuntary habitation. resettlement by exploring project and design alternatives; to enhance, or at least At present scenario selling and registration of lands of 48 restore, the livelihoods of all displaced persons in real terms relative to pre-project locations are finalised. As informed by the representatives levels; and to improve the standards of living of the displaced poor and other of the ReNew and Suzlon (land developer), lands for 29 vulnerable groups. out of 48 locations under private ownership. The private land has been purchased through negotiations on willing to sell and willing to buy basis. The land rates paid are more than the government rates. Hence, none of the private land procurement has any chance of triggering ADB’s SPS for IR. During ESIA Study the revenue lands those are identified for WTG locations and also informed by the representative of the project proponent and the land developer has not any kind of human activity, i.e. like habitation, agriculture or grazing etc. Hence, the revenue lands also don’t trigger ADB’s SPS for IR. Assigned lands for 19 WTGs were also resumed through appropriate govt. authority following all the rules, regulations and process. Followingly a Social Safeguard Compliance Audit was also undertaken by ReNew to assess whether there is any project induced impact on the livelihood of the assignees. Through the study it was ascertained that there is no such impact.

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ADB Policy Objective Project Details Indigenous Peoples Safeguards The project village falls under Scheduled Area. Impacts on To design and implement projects in a way that fosters full respect for Indigenous IPs are avoided by avoiding procurement of land Peoples’ identity, dignity, human rights, livelihood systems, and cultural uniqueness belonging to Scheduled Caste / Scheduled tribe. NOC as defined by the Indigenous Peoples themselves so that they (i) receive culturally from the village panchayat will also be taken. appropriate social and economic benefits, (ii) do not suffer adverse impacts as a So far it is observed, there is no adverse impact due to the result of projects, and (iii) can participate actively in projects that affect them. project on ST community. Only private land has been procured for this project. All the land owners have been discussed and price paid was mutually agreed. It seems that ADB Safeguard Policy of IP is not applicable. ADB Policy on Gender Requires Projects to consider gender issues in all aspects of ADB operations, The project will follow ADB Policy on Gender and Development accompanied by efforts to encourage women’s participation in the decision-making Development. Participation of women workers will also be (GAD) process in development activities. ensured wherever possible in the project. Additionally, women empowerment will also be a part of CSR activities. ADB’s Social The Social Protection Strategy requires that Projects comply with applicable labor Renew Power has developed ESMS in line with the Protection Strategy laws, and take the following measures to comply with the core labor standards for the requirement of ADB’s Social Protection Strategy (2001). (2001) ADB financed portion of the Project: This ESMS is applicable on all the projects initiated by a) carry out its activities consistent with the intent of ensuring legally permissible Renew Power equal opportunity fair treatment and non-discrimination in relation to recruitment, compensation, working conditions and terms of employment for its workers 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 labor or forced labor; ii. who have appropriate management systems that will allow them to operate in a manner which is consistent with the intent of points (a) and (b). ADB policy on Public ADB shall ensure that the project or program design allows for stakeholder feedback The project team held meeting with Village Sarpanch and Communication policy during implementation. ADB shall ensure that relevant information about major other people to disclose the project and taking their view. changes to project scope and likely impacts is also shared with affected people and To receive the comments of villagers and other other interested stakeholders. The borrower and/or client shall provide relevant stakeholder, arrangement will be made under grievance environmental, resettlement, and indigenous people’s information, including redressal mechanism. This mechanism not only facilitate information from the documents referred such as EIA, IEE etc to affected people in a receiving of stakeholder’s concern but also help to timely manner, in an accessible place, and in a form and language(s) understandable address the comment in time bound manner. to them.

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ADB Policy Objective Project Details Renew Power believe in clear and thorough communication with the community during the project life cycle and the same will be implemented. ADB policies on 2010 ADB’s Policy on Gender and Development will adopt mainstreaming as a key Not Applicable. on Gender strategy in promoting gender equity. Gender considerations shall be mainstreamed Renew Power through CSR interventions will work with mainstreaming into all ADB activities, including macroeconomic and sec-tor work, and lending and women/girl child on key thematic areas such as guidelines technical assistance (TA) operations. The key elements of ADB’s policy will include Education, Health and Empowerment. gender sensitivity, gender analysis, gender planning, mainstreaming, and agenda setting. Focus on Developing member countries ADB policies on Participation in ADB-assisted operations refers to the processes through which Stakeholder participation in this project has been ensured participation guides stakeholders influence or contribute to designing, implementing, and monitoring a through stakeholder discussion and project disclosure. development activity. Participation, rather than merely a goal in itself, helps achieve Further, CSR program will also be prepared in line with improved development results. By ensuring stakeholders understand and can the discussion held with community. participate in the decisions, resource allocations, and activities that affect their lives, it ensures attainment of the benefits from this engagement.

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