The Odisha government is preparing to harness its extensive network of reservoirs and water bodies for renewable power generation by developing large-scale floating solar projects, according to Grid Corporation of Odisha Ltd (GRIDCO).

GRIDCO Chief Project Manager Mahesh Das said the state faces acute constraints in identifying land for conventional ground-mounted solar plants, as much of the available land is either agriculturally productive or environmentally protected. He noted that a significant share of Odisha’s land is under cultivation or forest cover, limiting the scope for large solar parks on land.

To address this challenge, the state plans to deploy solar panels on floating platforms installed on reservoirs and other water bodies. Das said this approach not only overcomes land scarcity but also improves operational efficiency, as the proximity to water helps cool the panels and reduces maintenance requirements such as frequent cleaning.

Odisha is well endowed with water resources, with around 185 water bodies, including major, medium and minor reservoirs, making it suitable for large-scale floating solar deployment. Das said floating solar technology is now well established and time-tested, enabling the state to move ahead with confidence.

Under the plan, solar panels will be mounted on floating structures, with electricity generated and transmitted from these installations. The natural cooling effect of water is expected to enhance panel efficiency and improve overall plant performance.

GRIDCO has already taken concrete steps in this direction. A tender has been issued for a floating solar project of around 1,000 megawatts at the Rengali reservoir for captive use. Further projects are planned, including a 225 megawatt installation at Upper Indravati and a 1.5 gigawatt project at the Hirakud reservoir. Officials said the state intends to assess and develop these water bodies in a holistic and integrated manner.

Highlighting the environmental rationale, Das said expanding green energy capacity is critical to reducing carbon dioxide emissions, particularly in an industrially intensive state like Odisha. He noted that while Odisha accounts for a significant share of India’s steel production, it must simultaneously scale up renewable energy to balance industrial growth with sustainability goals.