Bhubaneswar: At the Odisha Solar Investor Conclave, the International Forum for Environment, Sustainability, and Technology (iFOREST) highlighted Odisha’s substantial potential to generate over 200 gigawatts (GW) of solar energy. This potential includes 138 GW from ground-mounted systems and 33.5 GW from floating solar installations.
Currently, solar power represents 21% of Odisha’s total 2,938 MW renewable energy capacity, comprising 508 MW ground-mounted, 58 MW rooftop, and 42 MW off-grid systems. iFOREST emphasized Odisha’s abundant solar resources, with over 300 days of sunshine annually and an average solar radiation of 5.3 kWh per square meter.
The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) data indicates that utilizing just 7% of Odisha’s wasteland could support 138 GW of ground-mounted solar power. Sundargarh, Angul, Balangir, Jharsuguda, and Dhenkanal are identified as areas with high potential. Additionally, 33.5 GW of floating solar potential could be developed across 670 sq km of water bodies. Odisha’s building footprint could support up to 10 GW of rooftop solar capacity.
Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo stated that Odisha aims to achieve 7.5 GW of solar capacity by 2030, as part of a broader goal to generate 10.95 GW of renewable energy. He highlighted the state’s conducive investment climate and robust infrastructure for harnessing solar potential.
Energy Secretary Vishal Dev noted the state’s commitment to a transformative energy transition. At the same time, GRIDCO Managing Director Trilochan Panda indicated significant future contributions from floating solar, rooftop solar, and the PM Kusum scheme. iFOREST President Chandra Bhushan projected substantial expansion in renewable energy over the next five years, promoting a low-carbon pathway and green economy.
Key Findings:
- Solar power accounts for 21% of Odisha’s 2,938 MW renewable energy capacity.
- Potential for 138 GW ground-mounted solar power, mainly in Sundargarh, Angul, Balangir, Jharsuguda, and Dhenkanal.
- 33.5 GW floating solar potential across 670 sq km of water bodies.
- Up to 10 GW of rooftop solar capacity is possible.
