Bhopal, April 29 (NationPress) The Cabinet of Madhya Pradesh has given the green light to a groundbreaking renewable energy initiative, a 3,000 MW solar power plant that the state proudly claims to be India's first solar power storage facility.

This pioneering project will be located in Morena, within the Chambal region. Construction is slated to start next year, with plans for the plant to become operational by 2027.

Urban Development Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya announced that the facility will have an overall installed capacity of 3,000 MW, with 1,000 MW allocated specifically for energy storage. This capability will enable the plant to provide electricity not only during the day but also at night, tackling one of the major limitations of solar energy.

Vijayvargiya emphasized that this project will create a balance in energy demand between Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, stating, “When demand peaks in Madhya Pradesh, it usually decreases in Uttar Pradesh, and vice versa, such as during the rainy season.”

Further details regarding the financial aspects and implementing agency will be determined shortly.

“The government of Madhya Pradesh is committed to enhancing its focus on green energy,'' the minister added.

Unlike traditional solar plants that only generate power during daylight, this facility will store surplus energy produced during the day for nighttime use. This innovation is anticipated to significantly lessen the financial strain on the government in providing electricity to farmers during the Rabi season (November to April) in both Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Madhya Pradesh has already made its mark as a leader in solar energy generation. The state houses the Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Project, which is among the largest solar facilities globally, generating 750 MW of electricity.

Launched in 2018 in Gudh Tehsil of Rewa district, this project is a pivotal element of India's renewable energy strategy, covering an area of 1,590 acres.

Managed by Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Limited (RUMSL), a partnership between Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam Limited and the Solar Energy Corporation of India, the project set a remarkable first-year tariff of Rs 2.97 per unit, establishing a new benchmark for cost-effectiveness.

Approximately 76% of the electricity produced is directed to Madhya Pradesh's power companies, while 24% is supplied to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, meeting 60% of its daytime energy requirements.

Another significant initiative in the state is the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Power Park, currently under development on the reservoir of the Omkareshwar Dam on the Narmada River in Khandwa district.

With a projected capacity of 600 MW, this floating solar installation ranks among the largest globally. The first phase of the project, contributing 90 MW, was commissioned in August 2024. This venture exemplifies sustainability by utilizing existing water bodies to minimize land use.