SECI unveils India's largest solar battery project in Chhattisgarh

New Delhi: The Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) on Saturday said that it has successfully commissioned India's largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh on February 1. The project has an installed capacity of 152.325 megawatt per hour (MWh) and dispatchable capacity of 100 MW AC (155.02 MWp DC) Solar Photovoltaic (PV) plant with 40 megawatts (MW) / 120MWh BESS. The offtaker of the power is the state of Chhattisgarh which will contribute towards meeting its peak energy demand using green electrons and to contribute towards its renewable purchase obligations.

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The solar PV with battery project signals a monumental leap forward in renewable energy generation and its use. Noteworthy is the utilization of battery storage for storing solar energy when the sun is shining and using it later during evening peak hours for electricity demand in the state. The project has deployed bifacial modules, which also reflect the light from the ground to generate more electricity than monofacial modules, hence setting a new standard for large-scale renewable energy projects.

A unique aspect of this project is its strategic use of previously unused land. Through a Tri-patriate land use permission agreement between the Energy Department of the Government of Chhattisgarh, the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL) and SECI, 451 acres of waste land across nine villages in Tehsil Dongargarh and Dongargaon, District Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, have been repurposed, showcasing a sustainable approach to energy project development while minimizing environmental impact.

The project ensures overall power stability and reliability by ensuring an efficient evacuation of power through a 132 kilo-volt (kV) double circuit double string transmission line to Chhattisgarh State Power Transmission Company Limited’s (CSPTCL) 220/132 kilovolt (kV) Thelkadih substation, facilitating seamless integration into the existing power grid.

This project is estimated to save tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. SECI's long-term power purchase agreement with the state electricity distribution company (CSPDCL) underscores the economic viability of the project and support for such renewable energy endeavours.

The project has been constructed with the funding from the World Bank and Clean Technology Fund under Innovation in Solar Power & Hybrid Technologies Project as well as leveraged financing from the domestic lending agencies. This further highlights the collaborative efforts to drive sustainable financial arrangements, making the project commercially attractive and viable.

“As we celebrate this significant milestone, we anticipate the far-reaching positive impact of this project on the renewable energy landscape and the responsible utilization of land resources in India and globally," SECI said in its official statement.

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