Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate a 300 MW solar power plant in Rajasthan virtually today, according to an official statement from the Ministry of Coal. The project, with an investment of over Rs 1,756 crore, aims to provide affordable power to government entities.
The initiative is spearheaded by NLC India Limited, a prominent Navratna CPSE under the Ministry of Coal, and is located in Barsingsar, Bikaner district, Rajasthan. It falls under the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy’s CPSE Scheme and is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including high-efficiency bifacial modules manufactured in India.
This solar project is in line with the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative championed by Prime Minister Modi. It is expected to generate around 750 million units of green power annually, significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 18,000 million metric tonnes over its operational lifespan.
To facilitate the transmission of electricity, the project will utilize the pre-existing power transmission lines of Barsingsar Thermal Power Station. A power usage agreement has been signed with Rajasthan Urja Vikas Nigam Limited at a competitive tariff of Rs 2.52 per unit for the next 25 years.
The project is scheduled for completion by September 2024. During its construction phase, it is projected to create job opportunities for approximately 600 individuals indirectly, with an additional 100 personnel required for operations and maintenance.
Furthermore, the initiative is expected to assist Rajasthan in meeting its renewable purchase obligation while contributing to the nation’s endeavor towards achieving a net-zero future.
NLC India Limited, known for operating the 250 MW Barsingsar Thermal Power Station (BTPS), has secured the capacity to undertake the 300 MW solar project under the CPSE Scheme Phase-II Tranche-III, administered by the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA).
In conclusion, the establishment of this solar power plant marks a significant step towards India’s renewable energy goals, providing clean and affordable electricity while contributing to economic development and environmental sustainability.
