Important for GS Prelims: ECONOMY
About the Scheme
- Ministry: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
- Type: Central Sector Scheme.
- Objective: Promote renewable energy by installing floating solar power plants on suitable water bodies.
- Target Capacity: 5,000 MW (5 GW) of Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FSPV) capacity.
- Financial Outlay: ₹5,070 crores.
- Implementation Period: To be implemented in phases across identified reservoirs, lakes, and other inland water bodies.
What is Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FSPV)?
- Floating solar systems are solar panels mounted on floating platforms over water bodies.
- They generate electricity in the same way as land-based solar plants but do not require large tracts of land.
- The cooling effect of water improves the efficiency of solar panels.
Key Benefits
- Reduces pressure on scarce land resources.
- Minimizes water evaporation from reservoirs.
- Improves solar panel efficiency due to lower operating temperatures.
- Helps utilize idle water surfaces productively.
- Contributes to India’s clean energy and climate commitments.
Conclusion
- Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana marks a significant step towards expanding India’s renewable energy capacity through efficient utilization of water bodies while supporting sustainable and low-carbon development.
| This concept has been elaborately discussed in the following article: Cabinet Approves ₹5,070 Crore Scheme to Promote Floating Solar Plants |