Top 5: Battery Energy Storage Projects Commissioned in India

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) have solved a key challenge for renewable energy, addressing the fluctuating nature of sources like solar and wind. Globally, new solar and wind projects are now integrating modern energy storage systems to ensure a reliable energy supply. Countries like China, the US, and Australia are rapidly expanding their energy storage capacities to support their renewable energy goals, and India is following suit.

In 2021, the global battery energy storage market was valued at $9.21 billion. This market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.3%, reaching $31.20 billion by 2029. Australia saw major investments in large-scale storage, with AUD 4.9 billion committed in 2023, up from AUD 1.9 billion in 2022. The US Department of Energy (DoE) also invested USD 3 billion in 25 projects across 14 states to strengthen domestic production of advanced batteries and materials. India is also making progress with several large projects in the pipeline and others already operational.

As of March 2024, India achieved a significant milestone, with a total installed energy storage capacity of 219.1 MWh, or roughly 111.7 MW. This reflects the country’s commitment to advancing energy storage technology and improving its energy infrastructure.

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Here is a list of the top five notable commissioned battery energy storage projects in India, leading the way in supporting the nation’s renewable energy expansion.

#1 Rajnandgaon 40 megawatts (MW) / 120MWh BESS

In February, the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) commissioned India’s largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), powered by solar energy. This 40 MW/120 MWh BESS, combined with a solar photovoltaic (PV) plant that has an installed capacity of 152.325 MWh and a dispatchable capacity of 100 MW AC (155.02 MW peak DC), is situated in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh. The energy generated will be purchased by the state of Chhattisgarh, helping to meet its peak energy demand with renewable power and fulfilling its renewable purchase obligations.

A notable feature of the project is its effective use of previously unused land. A tripartite agreement between the Energy Department of Chhattisgarh, Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL), and SECI enabled the repurposing of 451 acres of waste land spanning nine villages in Tehsil Dongargarh and Dongargaon, Rajnandgaon.

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#2 Kilokari Substation, New Delhi

This project is highlighted due to its expected record completion time of 18–20 months from conceptualization to implementation, even though it is yet to be commissioned. The approved 20 MW/40 MWh BESS will be installed at BRPL’s 33/11 kV Kilokari substation. The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) is providing a concessional loan covering 70% of the total project cost, in collaboration with IndiGrid and BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL). The project is also the first to have regulatory approval for grid connectivity.

#3 AES-Mitsubishi Rohini – Battery Energy Storage System

The AES-Mitsubishi Rohini Battery Energy Storage System is a 10 MW lithium-ion battery storage project situated in Rohini, NCT, India. 

This electrochemical storage project, using lithium-ion technology, is a collaboration between Tata Power, AES, and Mitsubishi Corporation. Located at a substation in Delhi operated by Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (Tata Power-DDL), the project is designed to provide grid stabilisation, manage peak loads, improve system flexibility, enhance reliability, and safeguard critical facilities for the two million consumers served by Tata Power-DDL.

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#4 BESS for SECI’s Lakshadweep Islands 

Honeywell Automation India Limited (HAIL) has successfully commissioned a microgrid Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) for the Solar Energy Corporation of India’s (SECI) project in the Lakshadweep Islands.

The project, which features a 1.7 MWp solar system and 1.4 MWh BESS, is part of SECI’s plan to decarbonize the Lakshadweep Islands. Honeywell’s BESS technology is integrated into the microgrid on Kavaratti, the largest island. According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, this project is projected to save ₹2,500 million over its lifetime, reduce diesel use by 19.8 million litres, and offset 58,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.

#5 India One Solar Thermal Energy Storage System

The India One Solar Thermal Energy Storage System is a 1 MW solar thermal power plant located in Abu Road, Rajasthan, India. It uses thermal energy storage to provide round-the-clock power. Commissioned in 2017, the project was designed, developed, and installed by Brahma Kumaris and the World Renewal Spiritual Trust (WRST). This research initiative employs 60 m² parabolic dishes developed in-house and features an advanced thermal storage system, enabling power generation even during nighttime.