Rajasthan shines as India’s solar power hub – Industry News

By Dr Mohit Tantia

Rajasthan has emerged as a prime destination for solar energy investment, not just in India, but globally. With an impressive installed capacity of 22,860 MW, the state now ranks first in the country in solar energy production. As India pushes toward its ambitious goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030, Rajasthan is set to play a pivotal role. The state’s potential solar generation capacity is estimated at 142 GW, underscoring the immense investment opportunities in this sector.

Rajasthan’s vast desert stretches—spanning 208,110 sq km—are bathed in sunshine for over 320 days a year. This includes regions like Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Barmer, and Bikaner, where the intensity of solar radiation provides a perfect environment for large-scale solar projects. With an average solar radiation of 6-7 kWh/m²/day, the state is a prime location for expanding solar energy infrastructure, making it a beacon for both domestic and foreign investors.

In 2023, Rajasthan’s installed solar capacity crossed the 18 GW mark, securing its position as the country’s leader in solar power generation. The flat desert lands are ideal for establishing large solar farms, and the state’s vast ‘Land Bank’—the largest in India—further strengthens its position as a hub for solar energy.

Recognising the potential, Rajasthan’s current administration, under chief minister Bhajanlal Sharma, has made energy self-reliance a cornerstone of its development strategy. To attract global investment, the state government is organizing the “Rising Rajasthan-2024” global investors’ summit in December. Solar energy will be a key focus, as Rajasthan seeks to capitalize on its geographic advantages and further its rapid growth in the sector.

The speed at which Rajasthan has developed its solar sector in the last few years is remarkable. In FY12, the state’s installed solar power capacity was just 193.50 MW. By the end of 2023, it had surged to 15,195.12 MW.”

The transformation is visible to both residents and tourists alike. Visitors passing through the desert areas of Bikaner, Barmer, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur are often struck by the sight of sprawling solar farms. Solar panels are also becoming increasingly common on rooftops in Jaipur and smaller towns, a testament to the state’s growing embrace of renewable energy. According to official data, Rajasthan leads in the implementation of the PM-KUSUM Component A and B schemes.

Moreover, under the ambitious “PM Surya Ghar Bijli Yojana,” the state plans to develop a model solar village in every district and install rooftop solar systems in five lakh homes. This will not only boost Rajasthan’s installed solar capacity but also make solar power more accessible and practical for everyday use. Such initiatives mark a significant step toward a prosperous, self-reliant future for Rajasthan in the energy sector.

However, some challenges lie ahead. The disposal of solar cells and batteries remains a concern, as does the complex process of land acquisition for new solar plants. Another issue is the large amounts of water needed to clean solar panels. He stressed the need for policymakers to address these challenges by devising practical solutions, ensuring that Rajasthan remains a leader in the solar energy sector.

To sustain this growth, creating a supportive environment for investors is crucial. With the right incentives and policies in place, Rajasthan can continue to shine brightly as a global leader in solar energy and a key player in India’s renewable energy future.

The writer is a member of the Advisory Committee (Rajasthan) Food Corporation of India & vice-chairperson of Tantia University.

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