Chhattisgarh Debuts 15 MW Floating Solar Plant Led by SAIL to Propel Sustainable Energy Goals

Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) is making significant strides in its commitment to sustainability with the launch of a 15-megawatt (MW) floating solar power project at the Maroda-1 reservoir in Chhattisgarh. This pioneering initiative, a first for the state, marks a crucial step in SAIL’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon emissions and enhance its use of renewable energy.

The project will be spearheaded by SAIL’s Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP), situated in the Durg district, and is expected to generate approximately 34.26 million units of green power annually. This energy will be used exclusively by the plant as captive power, aiding in substantial reductions in carbon emissions. According to estimates, the project could decrease BSP’s CO2 emissions by about 28,330 tonnes each year.

The Maroda reservoir, which spans 2.1 square kilometers and has a water storage capacity of 19 cubic millimeters, supports not only the plant’s operations but also serves the surrounding township. This solar initiative is being implemented through the NTPC-SAIL Power Supply Company Limited (NSPCL), a joint venture between National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) and SAIL, underscoring a collaborative effort towards sustainable energy solutions.

The tender for the floating solar plant was launched in January 2024, and with the completion of the tender process, the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract is expected to be awarded soon. The project is slated for completion by next year, establishing a foundation for NSPCL’s future green energy projects.