Odisha plans 1,000 MW energy from floating solar projects in reservoirs

Bhubaneswar – In line with India’s push for clean energy, Odisha is preparing to develop floating solar power projects with a combined capacity of approximately 1,000 megawatts (MW) across its reservoirs.

An inter-departmental reservoir committee, formed to evaluate the state’s potential in floating solar generation, has already convened three times to fast-track the implementation process in several large and medium-sized reservoirs.

The committee is actively finalizing GIS mapping for major water bodies such as Hirakud, Rengali, and Upper Indravati, while also identifying potential sites in Upper Kolab and Balimela.

Earlier, the state had appointed consultants to assess the feasibility of 51 medium-sized reservoirs for solar energy generation.

Odisha has set a renewable energy goal of 10 GW by 2030, with 7.5 GW expected to come from solar energy initiatives. Citing research by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), environmental think tank iFOREST has stated that Odisha holds the capacity to generate up to 33.5 GW of floating solar energy across 670 sq km of water surfaces.

Officials from the energy department highlighted that floating solar systems offer advantages such as improved power generation, land preservation, and better water management. The cooling effect of water also increases the efficiency of solar panels, making it a promising step toward Odisha’s clean energy future.