Solar unit to bolster renewable energy portfolio
Chennai, Feb 17:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday laid the foundation stone for NLC India Limited’s (NLCIL) 300 MW Solar Power Plant at Barsingsar in Rajasthan. The stone was laid by Modi through video-conferencing, a NLCIL release here said.
The public sector NLCIL is a leading player in the mining and power generation sector. Mr Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief Minister of Rajasthan and other government officials participated in the event.
This landmark project, under MNRE’s CPSU Scheme and awarded by IREDA on October 4, 2021, marks a significant stride towards bolstering India’s renewable energy portfolio and fostering sustainable development.
The total project cost is estimated at Rs.1,756 crore, with scheduled commissioning in September 2024, demonstrating NLCIL commitment to delivering projects of national importance within stipulated timelines.
In his address, Mr Modi said India has started moving at a fast pace in generating solar power, and in giving an impetus to this mission, today, foundation stone has been laid for various solar power projects in Rajasthan.
These projects will not only provide green and cheap power to the region but also provide great employment opportunities to the youth, he said.
On the key highlights of the 300 MW NLC Barsingsar Solar Power Project, the NLCIL said the project is strategically located near the existing Barsingsar Thermal Power Station, offering advantages in power evacuation through the existing network and utilisation of common infrastructure facilities.
The release said NLCIL has signed a Power Usage Agreement for the entire capacity of 300 MW at a tariff of Rs. 2.52/unit with Rajasthan Urja Vikas Nigam Limited, ensuring a reliable and cost- effective power supply.
The project employs indigenous domestic solar modules of high-efficiency bifacial type, aligning with the Prime Minister’s ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ initiative and fostering self-reliance in the renewable energy sector.
Over its lifespan of 25 years, the project is estimated to generate approximately 18.75 BU of green energy and reduce approximately 18 Million Metric Tons of carbon dioxide emissions, contributing significantly to environmental sustainability.
During the construction phase, the project will create employment opportunities for nearly 600 personnel, while over 100 persons will be employed during the operation and maintenance phase, fostering economic growth and skill development in the region.
The project has been awarded to M/s TATA Solar Power Systems Ltd on an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) basis through a competitive bidding process, ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
Leveraging the latest state-of-the-art technology, the project utilises high-efficiency Bifacial modules from domestic suppliers, furthering India’s progress towards sustainable energy solutions.
The green power generated by this project will aid the State of Rajasthan in meeting its Renewable Purchase Obligation and propel India towards its Net Zero status, aligning with the global efforts to combat climate change.
