The Rise of Floating Solar Panels in India

I am sure, we must all have crossed a river or waterbody at least once in our lifetimes. Do you remember seeing the smaller boats that floated on plastic boxes? Can you imagine something so invaluable making a big impact on energy production? Well, a few years ago you might not have, but now, it is possible. 

Read about this sustainable energy solution, that has been making waves—literally and figuratively—across the Indian subcontinent: floating solar panels. We witness the convergence of ingenuity and necessity as India, struggles with land scarcity. 

Telangana, one of the progressive states, is home to the largest floating solar photovoltaic project in India. Located on the pristine waters of the Ramagundam thermal power plant reservoir, with a capacity of 100 megawatts (MW) it indeed is the beacon of light for our nation. This, indeed, is a huge example but, not the only one. Let us talk more about this technology. 

Understanding the Floating Solar Panel Technology

A floating solar power plant, also known as a floating photovoltaic (PV) system or floating solar farm, is a renewable energy installation where solar panels are mounted on floating structures placed on reservoirs, lakes, ponds, or even the sea. This innovative approach to solar energy generation offers several advantages, including maximizing the use of water surfaces, reducing land requirements, and minimizing evaporation from the water bodies.

Notable Examples of Floating Solar Power Plant in India

As we explore the diverse landscapes of India, we witness the proliferation of floating solar power plants across various states, each harnessing the abundant potential of water bodies for clean energy generation. One notable example is the Kayamkulam floating solar plant in the state of Kerala, where 1.25 MW of solar panels float on the serene waters of the Kayamkulam backwaters. This pioneering project not only contributes to Kerala’s renewable energy targets but also serves as a model for sustainable development in the region.

Once Kerala had also been the largest floating solar power plant in India, the project, situated at the Banasura Sagar reservoir in Wayanad district, boasted an impressive capacity of 500 kilowatts (kW). It was also the first floating solar plant in India. This initiative was a collaborative effort between the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) and the Kerala Water Authority (KWA), showcasing Kerala’s commitment to harnessing renewable energy sources and promoting sustainable development. 

Moving beyond Kerala, we encounter the Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (MPUVNL) floating solar power plant in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Here, we find a 278 MW floating solar power plant on Omkareshwar reservoir, showcasing the versatility and scalability of this technology across different geographical settings.

In Maharashtra, the state’s Water Resources Department has embarked on an ambitious journey to harness solar energy through floating solar power plants on irrigation dams. These installations will generate clean electricity and help in water conservation efforts by reducing evaporation and algae growth on the water’s surface.

Are you Wondering how Its Futur is Looking Like?

As we gaze into the future of renewable energy in India, the horizon appears increasingly adorned with floating solar panels. 

Here’s a glimpse of what lies ahead for a floating solar power plant in India:

• With its vast network of water bodies, India has immense potential to scale up floating solar installations, tapping into previously underutilized resources.
• Floating solar panel in India mitigates the need for large tracts of land, alleviating land scarcity concerns while simultaneously generating clean energy.
• By harnessing solar energy over water bodies, floating solar plants can maintain water quality, and mitigate the impact of climate change on vulnerable ecosystems.
• Floating solar offers a versatile solution for decentralized energy generation, particularly in rural and remote areas where access to electricity is limited.
• The future of this technology envisions seamless integration with existing water infrastructure such as irrigation reservoirs, enhancing resource efficiency and multifunctionality.
• Continued research and development in floating solar technology are poised to drive down costs, improve efficiency, and enhance durability, making it an increasingly attractive option for energy developers and investors.
• As the Indian government continues to prioritize renewable energy, supportive policies and regulatory frameworks are expected to further incentivize the adoption of floating solar, bolstering its growth trajectory.

The future of floating solar in India is bright and buoyant, offering a compelling blend of environmental stewardship, technological innovation, and energy resilience. 

Conclusion

The ascent of floating solar panels in India marks a pivotal chapter in the nation’s quest for sustainable energy solutions. With ingenuity and foresight, India has embraced this innovative technology, recognizing its potential to harness the power of the sun while conserving precious land resources. As we reflect on the journey so far, we witness a landscape transformed, where water bodies become vibrant hubs of renewable energy generation. From the tranquil backwaters of Kerala to the sprawling reservoirs of Madhya Pradesh, floating solar plants stand as testaments to India’s commitment to a greener, brighter future. Moving forward, we should continue to champion this transformative technology, leveraging its scalability, environmental benefits, and potential to redefine the energy landscape.