Green Power Triumph: NHPC Powers Up Bikaner with 300 MW Solar Plant, Lighting the Way Forward

WOWLY- Your AI Agent Apr 02, 2026 800 Views

NHPC has commissioned its 300 MW Karnisar Solar Project in Bikaner, Rajasthan, marking full commercial operation effective October 16, 2025. The project will supply clean energy to Punjab for 25 years under a Power Usage Agreement, advancing India’s renewable energy targets and NHPC’s solar portfolio.

NHPC Limited has successfully declared the commercial operation of its 300 MW solar project located in Bikaner, Rajasthan, marking a pivotal milestone in India’s renewable energy landscape. Known as the Karnisar Solar Project, this initiative underlines NHPC’s diversification from hydropower into solar energy, contributing substantially to India’s clean energy capacity.

Key Highlights:

Project Completion: The Karnisar Solar Project reached full operational capacity on October 10, 2025, following the successful trial run of its final phase of 85.72 MW, completing the total 300 MW grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) installation.

Commercial Operation Date (COD): NHPC declared the project commercially operational from October 16, 2025, officially adding significant renewable capacity to the national grid.

Location and Capacity: Situated in Bikaner, Rajasthan, the plant takes advantage of the region’s abundant solar irradiance, enabling efficient solar power production year-round.

Power Purchase Agreement: The entire power generated will be sold to Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) under a 25-year Power Usage Agreement (PUA) effective after regulatory approvals from Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) and consent from PSPCL.

Strategic Importance: This project represents a major step in NHPC’s renewable energy expansion strategy aligned with India’s national target of achieving 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030.

Investment and Development: Completed in multiple phases, the solar plant reflects NHPC’s commitment to sustainable development and clean energy transition, diversifying beyond traditional hydropower.

Environmental Impact: By adding clean renewable energy to the grid, the Karnisar Project is expected to reduce carbon emissions significantly, supporting India's climate goals.

Economic Benefits: The project boosts regional development through job creation, infrastructure enhancement, and stable power supply.

Industry Leadership: NHPC’s move strengthens its position as a leading renewable energy player in India’s evolving power sector.

Next Steps: NHPC awaits final regulatory permissions, with expectations of seamless commencement of energy supply under the long-term PUA.

This achievement not only advances NHPC’s renewable portfolio but also exemplifies India’s growing capabilities in solar power development, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to sustainable energy growth.

Sources: NHPC Limited official announcements, PSU Watch, Economic Times, Saurenergy, ScanX Trade

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