Goa Government Unveils Major Solar Power Initiative with Energy Storage
The Government of Goa has announced a significant step towards renewable energy adoption with a decision to establish 300MW solar photovoltaic (PV) power projects. This ambitious initiative will be complemented by 150MW/900 MWh energy storage systems (ESS), representing a substantial investment estimated at over Rs 1300 crore.
Project Details and Location
A total land requirement of 650 acres has been identified for the power plant, with the Canacona taluka being the likely location. The solar facility will be developed on a build-own-operate-transfer (BOOT) basis, allowing for flexibility in its establishment anywhere within Goa. Once operational, it will connect to the state transmission utility (STU) network through a transparent tariff-based competitive bidding process.
Alignment with National Renewable Energy Goals
This project is strategically aligned with the Union government's ambitious target of installing 500GW of renewable power capacity across India by 2030. In pursuit of this national objective, the Goa state government has been actively setting up various solar projects in different regions of the state to contribute to the clean energy transition.
Implementation and Agreements
The Goa Energy Development Agency (GEDA) will play a pivotal role by entering into a power purchase agreement (PPA) on behalf of the distribution companies. This agreement will be with the successful bidder selected for the purchase of solar power, ensuring a stable commitment for a period of 25 years.
A senior government official elaborated on the responsibilities, stating that the solar power developer (SPD) will be fully accountable for:
- Planning, design, and construction of the entire project
- Ownership, operation, and eventual transfer of the evacuation system
- Construction of new pooling substations and upgrading existing grid substations as necessary for grid interconnection
- Obtaining all required approvals and permissions from concerned authorities for grid connectivity and power evacuation
Goa State Renewable Energy Policy
In a parallel development, the state government is preparing to introduce the Goa State Renewable Energy Policy. This policy aims to accelerate the adoption of clean energy alternatives and decarbonize the energy sector through two primary approaches:
- Increasing grid-based clean electricity consumption
- Reducing fossil fuel-based energy consumption
The policy framework seeks to harness the state's clean energy potential by making optimal use of available resources and facilitating the development of green energy projects. Key objectives include:
- Attracting substantial investment in the clean energy sector
- Creating new job opportunities and stimulating economic development
- Providing reliable and sustainable solar energy access throughout Goa
- Encouraging greater private sector participation in solar energy generation and storage
Economic and Environmental Impact
The government aims to foster a conducive environment for private sector investment in solar energy, recognizing it as crucial for achieving energy security and environmental sustainability. By promoting private sector participation, the initiative seeks to unlock investment opportunities for solar energy deployment while supporting broader economic growth through job creation and infrastructure development.
This comprehensive approach positions Goa as an emerging leader in renewable energy adoption within India, contributing significantly to national climate goals while building a more sustainable energy future for the state.
