Indian Prime Minister (PM) laid the foundation stone of NHPC’s 300 MW solar project located in Bikaner district of Rajasthan. The project is being developed as a part of government of India’s CPSU Scheme, phase-II, tranche-III, involving a substantial investment exceeding Rs 17.32 billion. This solar project is in line with the Atma Nirbhar Bharat plan and is equipped with innovative technology, including high-efficiency bifacial modules made in India.
The power produced will be conveyed through the Bikaner-II ISTS substation. With a capacity utilisation factor of 28.5 per cent, the project endeavors to generate approximately 750 million units of clean energy per year, offsetting 18,000 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions over the course of its lifetime.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has offered viability gap funding Rs 1.35 billion. In consideration of this, NHPC has signed a power usage agreement with Punjab State Power Corporation Limited at a competitive cost of Rs 2.45 per kWh for a period of 25 years. The project is set to be operational by September 2024, offering the prospect of generating indirect employment for around 600 individuals during the project phase and 100 individuals during the operations and maintenance phase. Additionally, in accordance with the provisions of the State’s solar policy, the state government of Rajasthan will receive a contribution towards the Rajasthan Renewable Energy Development Fund. This contribution is intended for the development of large power system infrastructure, grid management, other supporting infrastructure, and facilitation works for the stakeholders.
Recently, in February 2024, results were announced for NHPC’s auction to develop 1,500 MW of inter-state transmission system connected wind-solar hybrid power projects anywhere in India. By quoting Rs 3.48 per kWh, Juniper Green Energy has won 150 MW. While Energizant Power (O2 Power) and Avaada Energy have won 300 MW and 510 MW, respectively, by quoting Rs 3.49 per kWh. Of the total tendered capacity, only 960 MW was auctioned.
