Solar Energy Giant, Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam, Plans 10,000 Megawatt Solar Power Ventures in Rajasthan
In a significant stride towards India's renewable energy goals, SJVVN Green Energy Limited (SGEL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SJVN Limited, is advancing its 10,000 MW solar power project portfolio, with a significant focus on Rajasthan.
The latest development comes as SJVN has achieved commercial operation of 501.02 MW capacity out of the total 1,000 MW planned at the Bikaner solar power project in Rajasthan. Recently, an additional 100.25 MW capacity was commissioned, bringing the operational capacity from 400.77 MW to 501.02 MW. The remaining capacity of approximately 498.98 MW is expected to be commissioned soon, aiming for full project completion in the near future.
This project, being developed in phases, is a key component in India’s renewable energy and clean energy missions. While detailed timelines for the entire 10,000 MW portfolio are not explicitly outlined, the Bikaner project serves as a flagship installation within that target.
The LOI and acceptance letter for these projects were exchanged on Wednesday in Jaipur, with the Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and CMD, SJVN, Nand Lal Sharma present during the exchange. The union government's aim to attain 500 GW of installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030 motivates SJVN's renewable energy focus. SJVN has proposed an estimated investment of Rs 50,000 crore for these projects.
Rajasthan, which receives the highest solar radiation (5.72 Kwh per meter square per day) in the country, is a favourable location for solar power projects. SJVN plans to establish 10,000 MW solar power projects in Rajasthan over the next five years. The Rajasthan government has accepted SJVN's proposal for these solar power projects, and SJVN intends to establish these renewable power projects/parks on land banks allocated by Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation Limited.
These projects are expected to create direct and indirect employment opportunities for approximately 15,000 people. The power generated from these projects will be transmitted to beneficiaries through the nearest sub-stations. As SJVN Green Energy continues to make progress on its ambitious solar power projects, it is playing a crucial role in India's clean energy transition.
[1] SJVN Green Energy Limited, Press Release (2022): "SJVN Green Energy Limited Achieves Commercial Operation of 501.02 MW Capacity at Bikaner Solar Power Project in Rajasthan." [2] Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India (2020): "India's Renewable Energy Capacity Crosses 100 GW Milestone."
- In light of the commercial operation success at the Bikaner solar power project and the upcoming commissioning of the remaining capacity, the finance sector is anticipating substantial investments in the renewable-energy industry, specifically in India's solar power sector.
- With the progress of SJVN Green Energy Limited's solar power projects, particularly in Rajasthan, the renewable-energy industry and the finance sector are experiencing an improved partnership, potentially facilitating India's ambitious plans for achieving 500 GW of installed non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.