In Soleos Solar Private Limited, we are dedicated to promoting sustainable energy solutions across India, with a focus on harnessing the power of solar energy. Among the regions where solar energy is making tremendous strides is Gujarat, a state that has become a beacon for solar energy projects in India. As one of the leading states in solar energy production, Gujarat is setting benchmarks for other regions to follow. In this blog, we will explore various aspects of solar energy projects in Gujarat, their impact, and how Soleos Solar is contributing to this revolution.
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Gujarat: A Solar Powerhouse
Gujarat has emerged as a major player in India’s renewable energy sector, with its geographic advantages, clear solar policies, and infrastructure developments. The state is blessed with high solar irradiance, making it an ideal location for any solar energy project. Gujarat was the first state in India to develop a dedicated solar energy policy back in 2009, and since then, it has taken massive strides in expanding its solar energy capacity.
Why Gujarat is Ideal for a Solar Energy Project
1. Abundant Sunlight
With abundant sunlight and a progressive approach, Gujarat has emerged as a front-runner in the adoption of solar energy. One of the leading states in terms of solar power project investments, Gujarat’s total solar energy installed capacity stood at 10,133.66 MW as of June 30, 2023. Being the trendsetter in Roof Top Solar (RTS) installation, Gujarat’s share was 3.2 GW followed by Maharashtra and Rajasthan at 1.9 GW and 1.1 GW respectively. The Gujarat Renewable Energy Policy-2023 was introduced to generate 50% of its power from renewable energy sources by 2030.
2. Supportive Government Policies
The state government has consistently promoted solar energy with favorable policies, subsidies, and incentives. By March 2024, a total of 3,023 solar rooftop systems, generating a combined capacity of 56.8 MW, will have been set up across various government departments in the state. Surya Urja Rooftop Yojana: This state-specific scheme provides targeted financial assistance for rooftop solar installations. By offering additional support beyond the central subsidies, Gujarat is making solar power even more affordable for households across the state. This initiative is particularly aimed at accelerating solar adoption in urban areas where rooftop space is readily available.
3. Infrastructure Readiness
Gujarat boasts excellent infrastructure readiness for solar energy projects, making it a favorable destination for large-scale renewable energy investments. The state has developed a robust power grid network, ensuring efficient transmission of solar energy from production sites to urban and industrial areas. Additionally, Gujarat’s well-established transportation infrastructure, including roads, ports, and railways, facilitates the smooth import and distribution of solar equipment, enabling the rapid development of solar farms.
Special Investment Regions (SIRs) like Dholera further enhance infrastructure readiness by offering dedicated land with pre-built amenities designed for renewable energy projects. The state’s proactive investment policies, combined with strategic planning, have resulted in reliable access to resources, connectivity, and utilities, ensuring that solar energy projects can be implemented and scaled effectively. This infrastructure advantage positions Gujarat as a leader in solar energy within India.
Soleos Solar’s Role in Gujarat’s Solar Expansion
As a prominent solar energy company in India, Soleos Solar Private Limited has been at the forefront of solar energy projects across various states, with Gujarat being a key focus. We are committed to delivering high-quality solar solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial needs. Our expertise in solar energy project development and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) services enables us to manage large-scale projects efficiently and cost-effectively. Soleos Solar has captured 8.33% of the market share in Gujarat, which is a testament to its growing popularity among customers in the region.
Our Contribution
- Residential Solar Installations: Soleos Solar offers tailored solar panel solutions for homes in Gujarat, enabling homeowners to reduce their electricity bills and contribute to a greener environment.
- Commercial and Industrial Solar Projects: We have partnered with businesses and industries to install solar systems that meet their energy demands and help them achieve energy independence.
- Solar Energy Project Management: Our flagship projects include the development and management of solar energy projects in Gujarat, contributing significantly to the state’s renewable energy output.
Key Solar Energy Projects in Gujarat
Gujarat has witnessed the development of several landmark solar energy projects over the years. Some of the key projects include:
i. Charanka Solar Park
“Solar Park” is located at village Charanka, District Patan in Gujarat spread across 5,384 acres of unused land. This integrated “Solar Park” has state-of-the-art infrastructure with provision to harness rain water besides power evacuation at the doorsteps. Presently 730 MW Solar Projects have been commissioned by 36 developers. Further, projects of 20 MW power capacities are under implementation. Solar Park has also the capacity to generate 4.2 MW of Wind Power and already two Wind Mills, each of 2.1 MW have been commissioned to make the Park.
This park was launched on 30.12.2010 and commissioned on 31.12.2011 and formally dedicated to the Nation by Hon’ble Chief Minister on 19.04.2012. “Gujarat Solar Park” has been one of the most innovative projects in the Solar Energy Sector having large concentration/cluster of Solar Power generating units at single location, thereby reducing cost substantially (40%), and bringing down lower Solar Tariff to pave way for large scale development of Solar Power Projects.
ii. Dholera Solar Park
The solar park will cover a total area of 8,595ha, which has been divided into 11 blocks with 27 plots in each block. “The first 1GW-phase is being developed with an investment of Rs5bn ($695m) by GPCL, while the second 4GW-phase will be developed by SECI with an estimated investment of Rs20bn ($2.7bn).” Each plot will have 100MW, 160MW and 200MW capacity blocks. Solar photovoltaic modules based on poly-crystalline silicon technology will be installed at the solar park.
The modules will be mounted on a fixed and grouted plain cement concrete (PCC) foundation and installed at a pedestal height between 380mm and 450mm due to the tidal and flood effect. The silicon rubber edge sealing will protect and support the module. The maximum module power rating will reach just under 280Wp, while the photoelectric conversion module efficiency will be more than 15%. The junction boxes will be made of thermoplastic.
iii. Hybrid Renewable Energy Park (Kutch)
Under Govt waste land policy a large-scale 30 GW RE Park is identified at Vighakot BSF Post, near International Border in Kutch district. Approx. 72,400 ha of land for 27,700 MW RE capacity has been allotted to 6 Developers. Developers have to develop 50% of capacity in 3 years and 100 % capacity in 5 years from completion of the new approach road i.e 31.12.2021. Construction of New Approach road (16.26 KM) and widening & Strengthening of existing road (Approx 40.83 KM) is started and planned to be commissioned by 31st Dec.,2021. Work orders issued and work on site under progress
The power Evacuation & Transmission system has been planned by CEA and CTU (PGCIL). Location study & route survey is started. Tenders are invited. However, for the actual execution of the transmission scheme, developers have to submit applications to CTU for connectivity and Long Term Open Access (LTA) and enter into a contract with CTU for the same State Govt. has reserved 300 ha. land for 3 pooling sub stations ( Approx. 10 GW each ).
A provision of requisite (1500 Mtrs) Right of way for transmission lines along the road within the park is also made. To meet the water requirement, developers shall establish Brackish groundwater desalination plants within their park area. Construction power shall be provided by DISCOM ( PGVCL) on application by Developers and Payment of applicable charges
iv. Rooftop Solar Projects
Gujarat has also been at the forefront of promoting rooftop solar power. The state leads in the adoption of rooftop solar installations for homes and businesses, contributing significantly to the state’s solar capacity.
After the success of the Gandhinagar Solar Rooftop Solar PV project in 2010-11, the Government of Gujarat (GoG) has decided to replicate and scale up the rooftop solar PV initiative across the state through the development of similar pilot projects across five large cities in the state, i.e. Vadodara, Rajkot, Mehsana, Bhavnagar and Surat.
The project shall use a model similar to that used in the case of Gandhinagar, i.e. a PPP based model which facilitates development of rooftop installations through investments in rooftop projects by private players. The private rooftop project developers shall be selected through a competitive process. These developers shall be responsible for taking the rooftops from private individual residential, commercial and industrial rooftop owners on long term lease. Private rooftop owners shall be invited to participate in the programme and earn an income from leasing out their rooftops to the private project developers. The benefit accruing from lease of rooftops is known as the green incentive.
This is a grid-connected program, wherein Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) Systems will be installed on the rooftop and connected to the electricity grid. Under this Project, the Government of Gujarat has targeted to set up PV installations on various types of rooftops aggregating to around 25 MW (i.e. 25,000 kilowatts) in five cities in Gujarat.
Government Support for Solar Energy Projects in Gujarat
The Gujarat government has been instrumental in promoting solar energy through various schemes and incentives. These include:
i. Subsidies and Financial Incentives
Gujarat offers generous subsidies for residential and commercial solar energy projects. For example, homeowners installing rooftop solar systems can avail of up to a 40% subsidy from the state and central governments combined. Soleos Solar ensures that our clients benefit from these subsidies by guiding them through the process of applying for incentives.
- The solar power generators which are installed and commissioned during the operative period will become eligible for the benefits declared under the policy. This will be decided for a period of 5 years from the date of commissioning or the lifespan of them, whichever is before.
- Excused from the payment of electricity duty for sale through all modes.
- Developers will pass 50% on the gross benefit of CDM the distribution licensee.
- Solar power generators which are installed to be eligible for the incentives, for a period of 3 years.
- The government of India has launched the M-SIPs to offer incentives and attract investments in the manufacturing industry and electronic system design.
- Free of cross-subsidy surcharge for SPV projects under Net Metering.
As per documents released, the policy of 2009 gave us a solar power generation capacity of over 1000 MW with an investment of Rs 9000 crores. The government wishes to scale up the production as Gujarat has the potential to achieve more than 10,000 MW of solar generation capacity.
ii. Gujarat Solar Power Policy 2021
The Gujarat Solar Power Policy 2021 aims to promote both utility-scale and decentralized solar energy projects in the state. The policy includes provisions for wheeling and banking of electricity, exemptions from electricity duty, and additional incentives for rooftop solar systems. Soleos Solar adheres to these policies to deliver projects that align with government regulations.
Advantages of Solar Energy Projects in Gujarat
Solar energy offers numerous benefits for individuals, businesses, and the environment. By investing in a solar energy project in Gujarat, stakeholders can enjoy the following advantages:
i. Cost Savings
Solar energy significantly reduces electricity costs for consumers. Businesses can also benefit from reduced operating expenses by switching to solar power, which can lead to long-term savings.
ii. Energy Independence
Gujarat’s solar energy projects allow individuals and businesses to become less reliant on grid electricity and fossil fuels, leading to greater energy independence and security.
iii. Environmental Impact
Switching to solar energy helps reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. Gujarat’s large-scale solar energy projects contribute to India’s renewable energy targets and international climate commitments.
Challenges Facing Solar Energy Projects in Gujarat
While Gujarat has made remarkable progress in solar energy project development, there are still challenges to overcome:
i. Land Acquisition
Securing land for large-scale solar energy projects can be a challenge in densely populated areas of Gujarat. Soleos Solar works closely with local authorities and communities to ensure responsible land use for our projects. Getting land for solar projects is a big problem in Gujarat. The land needed often belongs to farmers. This causes conflicts and can delay projects, making them more expensive. Making the process of getting land smoother and fair payment to locals are key steps.
ii. Grid Integration
Integrating large volumes of solar power into the state’s electrical grid presents technical challenges, especially during peak generation periods. We focus on advanced grid management technologies to mitigate these issues and ensure a reliable energy supply for each solar energy project.
iii. Maintenance and Operation
Solar energy projects require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Soleos Solar offers comprehensive O&M (Operations & Maintenance) services to keep our solar installations running efficiently.
The Future of Solar Energy Projects in Gujarat
The future of solar energy in Gujarat looks incredibly promising. The state government is targeting 22,000 MW of solar power generation capacity by 2025, making it one of the largest solar markets in the world. At Soleos Solar, we are committed to playing a key role in achieving this target by expanding our operations and adopting cutting-edge technologies for each new solar energy project.
Gujarat is advancing with several major projects:
- Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train: A high-speed rail project covering 508 km, set to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to two hours and seven minutes by August 2026. It will operate at 320 km/h and carry 17,900 passengers daily.
- Dholera Solar Park: India’s largest solar project, located 80 km from Ahmedabad, with a capacity of 5,000 MW. It spans 11,000 hectares and is part of the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR), India’s largest greenfield industrial investment area.
- Hybrid Renewable Energy Park in Kutch: A key component of Gujarat’s renewable energy strategy.
These projects reflect Gujarat’s ambitious vision for future development and are expected to receive further attention at the 10th Gujarat Vibrant Global Summit in Gandhinagar from January 10 to 12
i. Emerging Technologies
Innovations such as bifacial solar panels, solar tracking systems, and battery storage solutions are transforming the solar energy landscape. Soleos Solar is actively investing in these technologies to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of each solar energy project in Gujarat.
ii. Expansion of Rooftop Solar
The rooftop solar segment in Gujarat is poised for significant growth, driven by government incentives and increasing awareness among consumers. We aim to make rooftop solar systems more accessible to homeowners and businesses by offering flexible financing options for their solar energy projects.
iii. Job Creation and Economic Impact
The solar energy sector in Gujarat is generating thousands of jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance. As we continue to expand our projects, Soleos Solar is contributing to job creation and economic growth in the region through each solar energy project.
How Soleos Solar is Leading the Way in Gujarat
At Soleos Solar Private Limited, we pride ourselves on being a leader in Gujarat’s solar energy revolution. Our projects are built on a foundation of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Whether it’s a large-scale solar energy project or a residential rooftop installation, we ensure that our clients receive the best solar solutions tailored to their specific needs.
Our Services in Gujarat:
- Solar EPC Services
- Rooftop Solar Solutions
- Ground-Mounted Solar Plants
- Solar Financing Solutions
- O&M Services
Conclusion: The Bright Future of Solar Energy Projects in Gujarat
The solar energy landscape in Gujarat is rapidly evolving, and the future holds immense potential for further growth. At Soleos Solar, we are excited to be part of this journey toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future. With a strong commitment to quality and innovation, we will continue to lead the way in solar energy projects in Gujarat, helping the state achieve its ambitious renewable energy goals.
Contact Soleos Solar Private Limited today to learn more about how we can help you harness the power of the sun in Gujarat through a solar energy project.
