In a landmark achievement for Lakshadweep, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi unveiled the region’s inaugural on-grid solar power plant at Kavaratti on January 3, 2024. This pioneering project, equipped with state-of-the-art Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) technology, is a collaborative effort by the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI). Boasting a collective solar capacity of 1.7 MW and an advanced 1.4 MWh battery storage facility, the installation signifies a major leap towards sustainable energy solutions for the archipelago.
The solar power plant stands as a transformative initiative, aiming to diminish dependence on the Diesel-based Power Generation plant in Kavaratti. Managed by the Lakshadweep Energy Development Agency (LEDA), these solar plants herald a shift from diesel-based power to a greener, eco-friendly energy source, aligning with the nation’s commitment to cleaner energy alternatives.
Over its expected technical lifespan, the project is anticipated to generate commercial savings of approximately Rs. 250 crores. Notably, the reduction of diesel consumption by a staggering 190 lakh litres and the offsetting of 58,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions underscore the profound impact of this initiative in promoting green energy and cultivating a cleaner, more sustainable future for Lakshadweep.
The Engineering, Procurement & Construction (EPC) expertise for this groundbreaking project has been provided by SunSource Energy, adding another layer of expertise to its accomplishment.
SECI, a Miniratna Category-I Central Public Sector Unit under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, played a pivotal role in promoting and developing various renewable energy resources. Their engagement in solar and wind energy, renewable energy-based storage systems, power trading, research and development, and RE-based products positions them as a key player in India’s renewable energy landscape. The organization’s focus on schemes for MNRE, a Category 1 power trading license, and active participation in trading further solidify SECI’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions in the country.
