Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated NHPC's 300 Megawatt (MW) Karnisar Solar Power Plant in Bikaner, Rajasthan, a project the company described as a significant addition to India's renewable energy capacity and a reinforcement of the nation's clean energy commitments. The Prime Minister emphasised that renewable energy is the cornerstone of India's energy security and sustainable future and said Rajasthan is developing world-class solar infrastructure that strengthens its role in national clean energy ambitions.

NHPC chairman and managing director Bhupender Gupta expressed gratitude to the central and state governments and to the ministries involved and reaffirmed the company's commitment to contributing to India's renewable energy goals and Aatma Nirbhar Bharat. The project was developed using approximately 0.775 million (mn) domestically manufactured solar PV cells and modules, underscoring the emphasis on indigenous manufacturing and supply chains.

The plant is expected to generate around 750 million (mn) units of clean electricity annually and to offset nearly 0.64 million (mn) tonne (t) of carbon dioxide emissions each year, figures the company said would substantially bolster the nation's renewable energy basket and advance environmental sustainability and climate commitments. The inauguration forms part of wider efforts to expand large-scale solar capacity and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Aside from energy output, the project delivered local socio-economic benefits by creating direct and indirect employment for over 40 persons and by generating livelihoods in remote areas of Rajasthan. The event in Balotra was attended by the governor of Rajasthan, the chief minister, union ministers and deputy chief ministers, and the Prime Minister also dedicated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth around Rs 1.06 trillion (tn). The project aligns with national targets for renewable adoption and grid stability and resilience.