India Unveils Largest Battery Energy Storage System in Chhattisgarh

27 Feb 2024 CW Team

Today, on February 24, 2024, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated this monumental project to the nation via video conferencing, underscoring the government's commitment to green energy initiatives.

The project's innovative use of solar panels combined with battery storage represents a paradigm shift in renewable energy generation. By storing solar energy during daylight hours and utilizing it during peak demand periods, the project ensures a sustainable and reliable power supply for the state. Additionally, the deployment of bifacial modules, enhancing electricity generation through light reflection, sets a new standard for large-scale renewable energy ventures.

One of the project's unique aspects is its utilization of previously unused land. Through a strategic agreement involving the Energy Department of the Government of Chhattisgarh, Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL), and SECI, 451 acres of wasteland across 9 villages in Tehsil Dongargarh and Dongargaon, District Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, have been repurposed for this sustainable energy endeavor. This approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also maximizes land utility for the benefit of society.

To ensure power stability and reliability, the project employs an efficient power evacuation system via a 132 kilo-volt (kV) double-circuit double-string transmission line to the Chhattisgarh State Power Transmission Company Limited?s (CSPTCL) 220/132 kilovolt (kV) Thelkadih substation, seamlessly integrating into the existing power grid.

Moreover, the project's environmental impact is significant, estimated to save tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. SECI's long-term power purchase agreement with the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL) highlights the economic viability and support for renewable energy initiatives.

Funded by the World Bank and the Clean Technology Fund under the Innovation in Solar Power & Hybrid Technologies Project, as well as leveraging financing from domestic lending agencies, this project exemplifies collaborative efforts to drive sustainable financial arrangements, ensuring its commercial attractiveness and viability.

The commissioning of India's largest Battery Energy Storage System in Chhattisgarh marks a pivotal moment in the country's renewable energy journey. With its far-reaching positive impact on the renewable energy landscape and responsible utilization of land resources, this project sets a precedent for sustainable development, both in India and globally.

In a significant milestone for India's renewable energy sector, the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI), operating under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, has successfully commissioned the country's largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). This groundbreaking project, incorporating solar energy storage technology, is set to revolutionize the utilization of renewable resources. The 40 megawatts (MW) / 120MWh BESS, coupled with a solar photovoltaic (PV) plant boasting an installed capacity of 152.325 megawatt hour (MWh), and a dispatchable capacity of 100MW AC (155.02 MW peak DC), finds its home in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh. The state of Chhattisgarh is poised to benefit from this initiative as it contributes significantly to meeting peak energy demand while fulfilling renewable purchase obligations. Today, on February 24, 2024, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated this monumental project to the nation via video conferencing, underscoring the government's commitment to green energy initiatives. The project's innovative use of solar panels combined with battery storage represents a paradigm shift in renewable energy generation. By storing solar energy during daylight hours and utilizing it during peak demand periods, the project ensures a sustainable and reliable power supply for the state. Additionally, the deployment of bifacial modules, enhancing electricity generation through light reflection, sets a new standard for large-scale renewable energy ventures. One of the project's unique aspects is its utilization of previously unused land. Through a strategic agreement involving the Energy Department of the Government of Chhattisgarh, Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL), and SECI, 451 acres of wasteland across 9 villages in Tehsil Dongargarh and Dongargaon, District Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, have been repurposed for this sustainable energy endeavor. This approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also maximizes land utility for the benefit of society. To ensure power stability and reliability, the project employs an efficient power evacuation system via a 132 kilo-volt (kV) double-circuit double-string transmission line to the Chhattisgarh State Power Transmission Company Limited?s (CSPTCL) 220/132 kilovolt (kV) Thelkadih substation, seamlessly integrating into the existing power grid. Moreover, the project's environmental impact is significant, estimated to save tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. SECI's long-term power purchase agreement with the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL) highlights the economic viability and support for renewable energy initiatives. Funded by the World Bank and the Clean Technology Fund under the Innovation in Solar Power & Hybrid Technologies Project, as well as leveraging financing from domestic lending agencies, this project exemplifies collaborative efforts to drive sustainable financial arrangements, ensuring its commercial attractiveness and viability. The commissioning of India's largest Battery Energy Storage System in Chhattisgarh marks a pivotal moment in the country's renewable energy journey. With its far-reaching positive impact on the renewable energy landscape and responsible utilization of land resources, this project sets a precedent for sustainable development, both in India and globally.