SJVN, Maharashtra Partner To Develop PSPs, Floating Solar Projects

SJVN, a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE), has signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Maharashtra government to build Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) and Floating Solar Projects in the state.

The total estimated investment for these projects is approximately Rs. 48,000 crores. It is expected to create around 8,400 direct and indirect employment opportunities. Additionally, the projects can promote eco-tourism and skill development initiatives, benefiting local communities, SJVN said.

The first MoU was signed between SJVN and the State Water Resources Department. Through this collaboration, the Maharashtra government plans to develop five Pumped Storage Projects (PSP) of 8,100 MW. This MoU was signed by Sushil Sharma, Chairman and Managing Director of SJVN, and Deepak Kapoor (IAS), Additional Chief Secretary, Water Resources Department, Maharashtra Government.

The second MoU was signed between SJVN and the Maharashtra State Power Generation Company (MAHAGENCO) for a 505 MW Floating Solar Project at the Lower Wardha Dam. Sushil Sharma, Chairman and Managing Director of SJVN, and P. Anbalagan (IAS), CMD of MAHAGENCO, signed the agreement.

The 505 MW Floating Solar Project is expected to be developed in two phases: the first phase has 100 MW capacity, and the second phase is expected to add 405 MW. This phased approach is undertaken to ensure optimal use of the existing power evacuation infrastructure while providing a sustainable and reliable energy source for the region.

The 8,100 MW PSPs Include projects like–

• 800 MW Kolmondapada
• 1,500 MW Sidgarh
• 2,000 MW Chornai
• 1,800 MW Baitarni
• 2,000 MW Jalvara

This MoU enabled SJVN to undertake surveys and investigations, prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), and establish these projects in Maharashtra in a timely manner, adhering to the current rules, policies, and schemes of the Central and State Governments. The PSPs are expected to play a crucial role in energy storage in the foreseeable future, thereby ensuring grid stabilization, and meeting peak electricity demand, ensuring reliable and clean energy for Maharashtra.

Context

Besides, the latest plan to boost PSPs through SJVN, the state is already working to boost storage plans in the state. MSEDCL, the state power utility recently got two project developers-JSW Neo Energy and Torrent Power to boost 3 GW of PSP projects in the state, after it issued tenders for the same. The state is now working to boost energy storage projects like PSPs to cater to its rising demand the peak power demands through variable renewable energy resources.

Earlier, Tata Power also signed MoU with Maharashtra government to build PSPs with a capacity of 2800 MW. Avaada is also working in the state with an aim to develop 2750 MW of PSPs. The Adani Group is also working to boost 5 PSPs especially in the Western Ghats of the state.