Bihar to Build India’s Largest Solar Energy Storage Project in Lakhisarai

Patna: Lakhisarai district’s Kajra region is set to become a hub for renewable energy, with two major solar projects slated to produce 301 MW of solar power and establish India’s largest battery energy storage system (BESS) with a capacity of 495 MW hours. The projects, expected to commence operations between July and August, aim to bolster Bihar’s energy security and promote green energy.

The ambitious projects, approved by the state cabinet and currently under tender, will utilize high-capacity batteries to store solar energy and supply it during peak hours, particularly at night, effectively addressing electricity shortages.

Energy Department Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav emphasized the state government’s commitment to expanding renewable energy under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership. “Bihar has achieved numerous milestones in the energy sector,” he stated, “and we are now focusing on sustainable energy solutions.”

The projects will feature a 241 MW hour BESS, a significant achievement in Bihar’s renewable energy landscape. The Kajra Solar Energy Project will be implemented in two phases:

• Phase 1: 185 MW solar production with a 254 MW hour BESS.
• Phase 2: 116 MW solar production with a 241 MW hour BESS.

The combined BESS will stabilize Bihar’s energy supply, ensuring uninterrupted power, even during nighttime. This will position Bihar as a leader in state-of-the-art energy storage, facilitating affordable and reliable power during peak demand.

The projects, with a combined cost of approximately Rs 2,866.06 crore, are being developed under an 80:20 financial model, with 80% funding from financial institutions and 20% from capital investment. 1232 acres of land have been authorized for the Kajra solar project, with M/s Larsen & Toubro (L&T) responsible for Phase 1 implementation.

Minister Yadav highlighted the projects’ environmental benefits, aligning with the “Jal- Jeevan- Hariyali” campaign. The increased reliance on renewable energy will reduce carbon emissions, mitigating climate change. Furthermore, the projects will generate significant employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers, boosting the local economy through construction, maintenance, and operations.

The Kajra solar projects are poised to be a milestone in Bihar’s journey towards energy self-reliance and environmental sustainability, establishing a benchmark for renewable energy development in India.