In a momentous stride towards sustainability and renewable energy, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi recently inaugurated Lakshadweep’s pioneering solar power plant at Kavaratti on January 3, 2024. This initiative, a collaborative project between the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) and Lakshadweep Energy Development Agency (LEDA), represents the region’s inaugural on-grid solar project boasting cutting-edge Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) technology.
With a collective solar capacity of 1.7 MW and an advanced 1.4 MWh battery storage facility, these installations signify a groundbreaking shift in Lakshadweep’s energy landscape. The innovative solar power plant promises to reduce the region’s dependence on diesel-based power generation, which has long been the primary energy source for Kavaratti.
LEDA will now harness energy from these state-of-the-art solar plants, a transition that marks a significant departure from conventional diesel-based power towards a sustainable, environmentally-friendly energy source for the archipelago.
This initiative holds immense potential to generate commercial savings, projected at approximately Rs. 250 crores over its anticipated technical lifespan. Moreover, it aims to drastically curtail diesel consumption by up to 190 lakh litres and counterbalance 58,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. These numbers underscore the project’s profound impact in championing green energy, nurturing an eco-friendly approach, and steering Lakshadweep towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.
SunSource Energy, a prominent player renowned for its Engineering, Procurement & Construction (EPC) capabilities, has lent its expertise to this landmark project.
SECI, a Miniratna Category-I Central Public Sector Unit under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), is at the forefront of promoting and developing various renewable energy resources. Their efforts encompass solar and wind energy, renewable energy-based storage systems, power trading, research & development, and innovative products such as Green Hydrogen, Green Ammonia, and RE-powered electric vehicles.
As a key implementing agency for several MNRE schemes, SECI is pivotal in driving solar, wind, and hybrid power projects. The corporation also holds a Category 1 power trading license, actively engaging in trading Solar/Wind/Hybrid/RTC/BSES power from projects developed under its comprehensive schemes.
The launch of this solar power plant signifies not only a significant technological advancement but also a resolute commitment towards sustainable, cleaner energy solutions for Lakshadweep, paving the way for a greener tomorrow.