Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited (KREDL) is making strides toward more efficient use of solar energy by launching solar battery energy storage systems (BESS) in Pavagada and Kalaburagi. These projects are part of the state’s broader initiative to store renewable energy and prevent wastage.
The pilot project at the Pavagada Solar Park in Tumakuru district will feature a 2-megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic (PV) plant integrated with a 2 MW/4.5 MW/h BESS. Set up at a cost of ₹36 crore, this facility is expected to become operational next month. The contract for the project was awarded to Nsure Reliable Power Solutions Private Limited in 2023, and the equipment has already been delivered to the site. While construction is still underway, the system will soon be ready for commissioning.
The BESS concept is based on a government directive that renewable energy should be stored in either pumped storage or battery systems to maximize its utility. Solar energy, which is primarily generated during daylight hours, is often needed later in the evening. Thus, around 30-50% of the energy produced during the day will be stored in these battery systems, allowing it to be used when demand peaks, particularly in the evening.
In Kalaburagi, a larger project is planned, with a 100 MW solar PV plant and a 100/130 MW/h BESS. This initiative is estimated to cost ₹500 crore, and the tendering process is ongoing. The energy generated from both Pavagada and Kalaburagi projects will be sold to electricity supply companies (escoms) based on demand. However, as more solar storage systems are established, KREDL envisions selling excess energy in the open market for ₹1 or ₹2 per unit.
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In August, KREDL also initiated a tender to develop a detailed project report for a 250 MW solar plant with a 250 MW/500 MW/h BESS in Ryapte village, Pavagada. However, no decision has been finalized regarding the BESS there. As of August 2024, Karnataka has a commissioned solar energy capacity of 8,904.14 MW and 34.70 MW of solar-wind hybrid energy.
