Solar Power Investments In Maharashtra: ₹13,500 Crore Boost For Sustainable Growth
Source：Solar Quarter
Representational image. Credit: Canva
The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) have initiated multiple projects in Maharashtra under Corporate Social Responsibility programs. These projects include solar-based irrigation, street lighting, water heating systems, and photovoltaic off-grid systems, covering districts like Nashik, Gondia, Sindhudurg, and Ratnagiri. Additionally, NTPC Ltd. is advancing solar PV systems and high-mast installations in districts such as Thane, Solapur, and Nagpur.
The state has received approval for four solar parks with a combined capacity of 1,105 MW under the Development of Solar Parks and Ultra-Mega Solar Power Projects scheme. This development is projected to attract an investment of approximately ₹5,000 crore. Further solarization efforts under the PM-KUSUM scheme include the allocation of 7.75 lakh pumps, expected to generate 3,875 MW of solar capacity, with an estimated investment of ₹13,500 crore. Another component of the scheme is the installation of 5.05 lakh solar pumps, which may draw in ₹13,000 crore in investment.
The Renewable Energy Policy 2020 has catalyzed additional projects amounting to 1,142.17 MW, with notable contributors including Vidisha Electrical Company, Ctrl Datacenters Ltd, Renew Green, and Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited. These projects span various districts such as Solapur, Amravati, and Ahmednagar, ensuring the equitable geographic distribution of solar investments.
To ensure sustainability, solar energy projects adhere to the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, which became effective on April 1, 2023. The rules mandate the recycling of photovoltaic modules, panels, and cells for material recovery under the supervision of the Central Pollution Control Board. This regulatory framework aligns with the broader environmental goals of the renewable energy sector in India, ensuring that solar power growth does not come at the expense of ecological health.