Patna: Bihar is set to install powerful battery energy storage systems in the power substations of 15 cities, aiming to maintain electricity supply for up to four hours during outages. The initiative comes in response to record-breaking power consumption in the state, which recently touched 8,303 MW during peak summer demand.
The new systems, each with a storage capacity of 125 MW, will collectively offer up to 500 MWh of energy backup. These batteries will be installed at sub-grid stations across selected locations, including Muzaffarpur, Motihari, Bettiah, Bhagalpur (new), Sitamarhi, Fatuha, Mushahari, Udakishunganj, Jamui (new), Asthawan (Nalanda), Jehanabad, Rafiganj, Shivhar, Siwan (new), Kishanganj, and Banka (new).
The project is being implemented under the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s Viability Gap Funding Scheme. The Centre has approved Rs 135 crore for the initiative, covering Rs 27 lakh per MW hour or 30 percent of the capital cost, whichever is lower.
Bihar State Power Generation Company Limited will execute the project, with battery capacities ranging between 5 MW and 20 MW at each station. Tenders have already been finalised for six locations, and the process is ongoing for the remaining sites.
Officials stated that the battery systems will ensure uninterrupted supply during grid disruptions, especially during peak hours. The project will also aid in integrating renewable energy and balancing fluctuations in electricity demand, delivering affordable and reliable power to urban areas.
Energy Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav hailed the project as a landmark step in making Bihar’s energy infrastructure more flexible, reliable, and sustainable. He described the move as a reflection of the state’s commitment to energy self-sufficiency, technological innovation, and consumer-focused development.
With over 40 transformers reportedly failing daily due to heat-induced stress on the system, the battery project is expected to offer critical relief and improve service delivery across the power network.
