India maps out 'ultra mega' solar power project

Jessica Shankleman
clock

Record-breaking 4GW plant to be build in two phases over seven years at a cost of $4.4bn

India moved a step closer to building the world's largest solar project, after the government signed a deal with six companies planning to develop the scheme.

The 4GW project, described by the government as an "ultra mega" solar power project, is reportedly expected to cost US$4.4bn.

It will be installed in two phases in Rajasthan near Jaipur, close to Sambhar Lake, and is expectd to create capacity comparable to four nuclear reactors. The project is expected to be built over seven years, with the first phase delivering 1GW of capacity and the second 3GW, a government statement issued late last month confirmed.

It will be constructed by a joint venture funded by Bharat Heavy Electricals, Solar Energy Corporation of India, Hindustan Salts, Powergrid, Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam and Rajasthan Electronics and Instruments.

Shri Praful Patel, minister of heavy industries and public enterprises, last week oversaw the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the six firms.

The project is at the forefront of the Indian government's high-profile 'solar mission' initiative, which was launched back in 2010 with the goal of delivering 20GW of solar capacity by the end of the decade.

More on Solar

'New benchmark': 373MW Cleve Hill site becomes UK's largest operational solar farm

'New benchmark': 373MW Cleve Hill site becomes UK's largest operational solar farm

Solar farm in Kent becomes the largest currently online in the UK after beginning commercial operations

Stuart Stone
clock 02 July 2025 • 4 min read
UK Solar Roadmap: Government sets out vision for 'solar rooftop revolution'

UK Solar Roadmap: Government sets out vision for 'solar rooftop revolution'

Industry-backed plan aims to scale up commercial, domestic, and large-scale solar installations in support of the government's 2030 clean power mission

Michael Holder
clock 30 June 2025 • 6 min read
'The best May in MCS history': Small scale renewables enjoy another record month

'The best May in MCS history': Small scale renewables enjoy another record month

Latest figures come as new study suggests households installing solar panels and battery systems can save over £1,000 a year on their energy bills

James Murray
clock 18 June 2025 • 3 min read