This is a Category B project according to IFC's Policy on Environment and Social Sustainability (2012). Based on information reviewed by IFC, the proposed project will have limited adverse E&S impacts that are few, site specific, largely reversible and readily addressed through existing mitigation measures and good international industry practices (GIIP). Key E&S issue and risks associated with the project include: (i) EPC procurement & contractor E&S management; (ii) cumulative impacts on water resources, and loss of agricultural land; (iii) construction phase impacts related to OHS, traffic risks, community safety & waste management; (iv) labour aspects in line with PS 2 requirements; (v) operation phase impacts related to water use, drainage, and waste management (broken solar panels); (vi) land procurement process & alignment with PS 5 requirements and physical/economical displacement from land acquisition (if any) for RoW of the T-line; (vii) supply chain aspects related to procurement of solar panels and cells; (viii) stakeholder engagement.

Brookfield RJ manage labor risks in their solar supply chain through several processes used to evaluate and monitor their supplier’s compliance with their ESG policies, including on human rights. These processes involve adherence to a Supplier Code of Conduct (CoC), implementing a Supply Chain ESG Assessment, integrating labor-related clauses in purchase orders, and as warranted, on-site audits by third-party inspection agencies.

Bird surveys conducted in March 2023 confirmed that there are no impacts on Critical Habitats (CH), and that the project area is located outside of the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) potential zone. There are wetlands nearby that may play host to migratory waterbirds and carcass dumping was identified in proximity to the transmission line which may act as an attraction for raptors (vultures and eagles). Both risks related to the wetlands and carcasses will be managed using high-quality bird diverters on the transmission line.