Image Source: Trade Brains
NLC India Limited has successfully commissioned the first phase of its ambitious 300 MW Solar Power Project located in Barsingsar, Bikaner district of Rajasthan. The initial phase, consisting of 52.83 MW capacity, was declared commercially operational on August 26, 2025, as per the Commissioning Certificate issued by the Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation Limited. This accomplishment is a key leap forward in NLC India’s strategy to diversify its energy portfolio, traditionally dominated by lignite mining and thermal power, towards renewable energy sources.
Key Developments in the Project
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The 52.83 MW first phase is now fully operational, with commissioning confirmed on August 26, 2025.
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The project is situated in Barsingsar within Rajasthan’s Bikaner district, a region gaining prominence in India’s solar energy landscape.
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The commissioning certificate was formally issued by the Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation Limited, underscoring government oversight and support.
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NLC India plans to complete the remaining phases to reach the full 300 MW capacity by the end of September 2025.
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The solar power generated will be sold to Rajasthan Urja Vikas Nigam, the state entity responsible for energy sector management in Rajasthan.
Significance for NLC India and India's Energy Sector
This solar project is a milestone for NLC India, a 'Navratna' Government of India enterprise, marking a transformational phase in its clean energy journey. It complements the company’s ongoing efforts to implement renewable energy solutions alongside its existing lignite mining and thermal power operations. The project also signifies India's broader push to boost its renewable energy share, supporting national commitments to clean energy expansion.
Technological and Strategic Aspects
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NLC India is utilizing high-efficiency bifacial solar modules manufactured in India, which aligns with the government’s focus on strengthening the domestic solar manufacturing ecosystem.
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This aligns with India’s production-linked incentive schemes that aim to significantly enhance Indian solar manufacturing capacity, forecasted to reach 110 GW by 2026.
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The Barsingsar project contributes to NLC India’s target of installing 10 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, a key pillar in the company’s sustainability roadmap.
Broader Context and Future Outlook
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NLC India’s 300 MW Barsingsar solar project forms part of a broader portfolio including hybrid wind-solar projects and battery energy storage systems (BESS), indicating a holistic renewable energy strategy.
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The company has acquired Letters of Award for additional large-scale renewable projects, such as a 450 MW interstate wind-solar hybrid power initiative and a 250 MW/500 MWh BESS project in Tamil Nadu.
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The commissioning of this first phase is expected to positively impact the company’s environmental footprint and financial outlook as renewable projects start contributing to its revenues.
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Investors and stakeholders are closely monitoring the completion of subsequent phases and the overall growth trajectory in NLC’s renewable segment, which could become a key earnings driver.
Company Profile and Industry Impact
NLC India Limited, known previously as Neyveli Lignite Corporation Limited, operates lignite and coal mining, along with power generation utilities in Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Odisha, with an aggregate mining capacity of 28 million metric tons annually and power generation capacity exceeding 3,640 MW. The expansion into solar power signifies a strategic pivot towards sustainability and future resilience amid evolving energy markets in India.
In summary, the commissioning of the first 52.83 MW phase of the 300 MW Barsingsar solar power project is a landmark achievement for NLC India. It reflects the company’s commitment to green energy transition, enhances India’s renewable capacity, and sets a strong foundation for meeting the ambitious clean energy goals in the decade ahead.
Source: Reuters, NLC India Limited official regulatory filing
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