The Indian Cabinet has approved the 'Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana', a new scheme to promote floating solar power plants across water bodies, targeting **5,000 MW** of installations by 2030-31.
5000 MW
Floating Solar Target (by 2030-31)
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India's Renewable Energy Capacity Targets
Takeaway: India's non-fossil fuel energy target for 2030 has been progressively increased, highlighting its commitment to renewables.
⏳ Time Machine
How today’s news fits into the bigger picture
2010
National Solar Mission launched
India launched the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission, a major policy initiative to promote solar power generation, primarily focusing on grid-connected solar projects. This laid the foundation for India's solar boom.
2018
First large-scale floating solar projects
India saw the commissioning of its first few large-scale floating solar power projects, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of the technology in different regions, such as the one in Kerala with a 500 kW capacity.
2021
India's ambitious climate targets
At COP26, India pledged to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2070, necessitating accelerated deployment of all forms of , including innovative solutions like floating solar.
Today
The Union Cabinet approved the 'Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana' for 5,000 MW of floating solar plants.
What happens next?
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will develop detailed guidelines for scheme implementation, with initial projects expected to begin within 12-18 months.
India's Cabinet has launched the 'Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana,' aiming for **5,000 MW** of floating solar power capacity by 2030-31. This initiative will see solar panels deployed on water bodies, conserving land and water resources. The move underscores India's commitment to boosting renewable energy, reducing its carbon footprint, and achieving its ambitious climate targets. It offers a novel solution to land scarcity for large-scale solar projects.
💭 If you're wondering…
Solar panels are installed on specialized platforms or pontoons that float on the surface of water bodies. They are anchored to the bed or shore and connected to the grid via underwater cables.
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