Bhilai Steel Plant Embraces Solar Power with Rooftop and Floating Projects

Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP), a flagship unit of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), has embarked on an ambitious plan to harness solar power within its premises and surrounding township in Bhilai.

BSP has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Chhattisgarh State Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA) for the installation of solar power generation systems on rooftops of various buildings within the plant premises. This initiative is projected to yield approximately 2 MW of electricity. Additionally, BSP is undertaking a project to install rooftop solar energy systems on residences and offices in the township, with the potential to generate around 3 MW of electricity.

Furthermore, BSP has inked a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with NTPC-SAIL Power Supply Company Limited (NSPCL) for the establishment of a 15 MW capacity floating solar plant in Maroda-1 reservoir, marking a significant stride towards enhancing the plant's sustainability efforts.

This innovative venture, slated to be operational by next year, is expected to substantially reduce the plant's carbon footprint while promoting renewable energy resources. The estimated annual green power generation from this plant is projected to be approximately 34.26 Million Units, contributing significantly to BSP's captive power consumption.

Looking ahead, BSP has outlined plans for the development of another floating Solar Power Plant of 35 MW capacity in Maroda-2 reservoir, in collaboration with NSPCL. With the detailed project report (DPR) already prepared, BSP anticipates commencing the tender process soon. The solar energy projects within the plant premises, township, and reservoirs are slated to be completed in two phases, with the first phase targeted for completion by 2025 and the second phase by the end of 2027.