Jharkhand Gets Massive Floating Solar Plant
Oriana Power has secured a ₹1,180 crore contract to build a 234 MW floating solar project at the Maithon Dam. The deal marks the largest floating solar initiative in Jharkhand and one of the biggest in India, boosting the state's renewable energy profile.
The project is a key part of the Damodar Valley Corporation's (DVC) broader push into renewable energy. Established in 1948 as India's first multipurpose river valley project, DVC has a massive thermal power capacity of 6,540 MW and is now aiming to install around 4,000 MW of solar capacity by 2030. This floating solar initiative aligns with DVC's strategy to meet its green energy obligations and diversify its portfolio. The Maithon Dam, situated on the Barakar River, is a strategic location for this initiative. The dam already hosts a unique 60 MW underground hydroelectric power station, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. The new solar installation will be built upon the dam's large reservoir, which spans 65 square kilometers, utilizing the existing water body to generate power without new land acquisition. This venture is a significant step towards Jharkhand's clean energy goals. The state's 2022 Solar Policy targets the installation of 4,000 MW of solar capacity by 2027. The 234 MW Maithon project provides a substantial boost to the state's current renewable capacity, which stood at only 409 MW. Noida-based Oriana Power, founded in 2013, will handle the complete development, including design, engineering, procurement, and construction. The contract also binds the company to manage operations and maintenance for 10 years post-commissioning, with the entire project slated for completion within an 18-month timeline. Once operational, the plant is expected to generate approximately 500 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. This clean energy output will help offset up to 400,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year. Floating solar projects also offer the ancillary benefit of reducing water evaporation from the reservoir surface. While one of the largest floating solar projects in India, it is part of a growing trend. Other major projects include the 100 MW NTPC Ramagundam plant in Telangana and the massive 600 MW Omkareshwar project planned in Madhya Pradesh. The Maithon project solidifies Jharkhand's position within this emerging renewable sector.
