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Odisha, with its numerous water bodies, is proving to be an ideal location for innovative energy solutions like Floating Solar Projects in Odisha. This initiative not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also showcases Odisha’s commitment to becoming a leader in green energy.
The Rise of Floating Solar Projects
Odisha is embracing a futuristic approach to solar energy by planning to install floating solar projects. Two major companies have taken pivotal steps in this direction:
Welspun’s Commitment: Welspun has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop floating solar power projects with a capacity of 1,000 MW. This move is a significant step towards harnessing solar energy in a way that minimizes land use, preserving the state’s agricultural and forested areas.
Avaada Group’s Investment: Similarly, the Avaada group is set to invest in floating solar projects with a capacity of 1,500 MW. This investment not only underscores the economic viability of such projects but also their potential in transforming Odisha’s energy landscape.
The combined capacity of the projects by Welspun and Avaada will be 2,500 MW, which could significantly contribute to Odisha’s renewable energy goals. Studies suggest that floating solar can reduce water evaporation by up to 70%, which is critical in water management strategies.
Why Odisha is Ideal for Floating Solar Projects in Odisha
Odisha’s landscape is dotted with numerous water bodies, making it an optimal location for floating solar installations. Here are some key reasons why floating solar is particularly suitable for Odisha:
- Land Conservation: Traditional solar farms require large swathes of land, which can lead to deforestation or loss of agricultural land. Floating solar panels, however, utilize existing water bodies, thus saving land for other uses.
- Increased Efficiency: Water bodies can help in cooling the solar panels, which increases their efficiency compared to land-based installations where heat can reduce performance.
- Evaporation Reduction: The panels on water reduce evaporation, which is beneficial in conserving water resources, especially in a state like Odisha where water management is crucial.
Challenges and Considerations for Floating Solar Projects
Given Odisha’s susceptibility to cyclones, the resilience of these floating installations against extreme weather conditions is crucial. Modern solar panel installations are designed to be cyclone-resistant, which is reassuring for such projects in Odisha.
The impact on aquatic life must be carefully studied. While floating solar can potentially reduce algal blooms by limiting sunlight penetration, the structures must not adversely affect the aquatic flora and fauna. This aspect requires ongoing research and monitoring.
Current Developments in Floating Solar Projects
There’s a proposal to install floating solar in the Hirakud reservoir, which could become one of the best energy generators due to its vast water surface area. Floating solar can be integrated with existing hydel projects like Rengali, Hirakud, and Chiplima, enhancing the state’s power infrastructure without additional land acquisition. One innovative approach is installing floating solar panels on canals, which not only generates power but also conserves water by reducing evaporation.
Operational Advantages of Floating Solar Projects in Odisha
By using water surfaces, these projects do not compete with other land uses, which is a significant advantage in densely populated or land-scarce regions. The cooling effect of water can extend the lifespan of solar panels by reducing thermal degradation. This could mean lower maintenance costs over time. Existing power infrastructure can be utilized, reducing the need for new transmission lines and minimizing environmental disruption.
