PM Inaugurates NHPC’s ₹1732 Crore, 300 MW Solar Power Plant in Bikaner, Rajasthan

In a significant stride towards India’s renewable energy targets and the aim for achieving Net Zero by 2070, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the construction of a 300 MW Solar Power Plant in Karnisar-Bhatiyan village, Poogal Tehsil, Bikaner, Rajasthan, via video conferencing on February 16, 2024. The project, spearheaded by NHPC Limited under the Government of India’s CPSU Scheme Phase-II Tranche-III, boasts an investment exceeding Rs. 1,732 crores.

Employing state-of-the-art technology, including high-efficiency bifacial modules made in India, the solar initiative resonates with the Atma Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative. The electricity generated will be transmitted through the Bikaner-II Inter State Transmission System Substation, with an annual output projected to reach around 750 million units of green power. This production is expected to offset carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 18,000 million Metric tons over its lifespan, considering a Capacity Utilization Factor (CUF) of 28.50%.

Under a Power Usage Agreement, Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has secured a competitive tariff of Rs. 2.45/unit for 25 years. The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India, extends Viability Gap Funding (VGF) of ₹ 134.70 crores. Scheduled for completion by September 2024, the project holds promise for around 600 indirect employment opportunities during the project phase and 100 jobs during Operations & Maintenance.

The ceremony witnessed the presence of Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, Union Ministers including Shri R. K. Singh, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, and other dignitaries. NHPC Limited, a leading hydropower company, currently boasts a total installed capacity of 7097.2 MW in renewable energy, including wind and solar, across 25 power stations, along with subsidiaries. Additionally, NHPC is actively involved in the construction of 15 projects with a combined installed capacity of 10,449 MW.