Cabinet Approves 100 MW Expansion of Goaltore Solar Plant
02 May 2025 CW Team
The West Bengal Cabinet has approved a 100 MW expansion of the Goaltore solar power plant in West Midnapore. Currently producing 112.5 megawatts, the facility is the largest solar plant in eastern India. It was recently inaugurated by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
The Rs 6.8 billion expansion project will be supported by Germany’s KfW Bank, which will provide Rs 4.75 billion under an 80:20 funding model. The remaining cost will be borne by the state government. The project is expected to enhance renewable energy output and generate local employment, as it is entirely pollution-free.
The initiative aligns with the state’s larger energy goals. West Bengal plans to increase its total power generation capacity to 18,000 megawatts in the coming years. Since 2011, the state's capacity has grown from 2,000 megawatts to 10,000 megawatts. Additionally, five new power projects are underway, forming part of a Rs 480 billion investment strategy aimed at further strengthening the energy sector.