NHPC Limited, a prominent state-owned entity, has significantly advanced India’s renewable energy ambitions with the recent commissioning of the third phase of its 300 MW Karnisar Solar Power Project in Bikaner, Rajasthan. This latest addition of 53.57 MW, which commenced commercial operations on June 7, 2025, elevates the project’s total operational capacity to 160.71 MW.
This milestone reinforces India’s commitment to a zero-net carbon future, highlighting the pivotal role of solar energy in building eco-friendly and sustainable urban environments. The Karnisar Solar Power Project, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2024, is an integral component of the Government of India’s CPSU Scheme Phase-II, Tranche-III. A key feature of this project is its adherence to the ‘Make in India’ and self-reliance initiatives, as it exclusively utilises domestically manufactured bifacial solar modules. This not only bolsters indigenous manufacturing capabilities but also contributes to the creation of a robust domestic supply chain for renewable energy technologies, fostering economic growth and employment opportunities across diverse demographics.
The phased commissioning strategy adopted by NHPC demonstrates a systematic approach to integrating large-scale solar capacity into the national grid. The initial 107.14 MW of the Karnisar project was brought online on April 12, 2025, paving the way for the current phase. With 160.71 MW now operational, only 139.29 MW remains to be commissioned, with an announcement regarding its timeline expected in due course. The total investment for this ambitious project stands at ₹1,732 crore, a substantial commitment towards transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
NHPC’s diversification into solar energy, moving beyond its traditional hydroelectric focus, signifies a strategic shift towards becoming a multi-dimensional renewable energy powerhouse. This expansion is crucial for India, particularly for sun-rich states like Rajasthan, which are rapidly transforming into significant clean energy hubs. The company’s robust financial performance, including a 52% year-on-year increase in Q4 FY25 net profit to ₹919.63 crore and a remarkable 114% growth in operational revenue, provides a strong financial bedrock for these large-scale renewable energy deployments.
The ongoing capital raising plans, including an interim dividend of ₹1.40 per share announced in March 2025 and a proposed final dividend of ₹0.51 per equity share, alongside plans to raise up to ₹2,000 crore through private bond placement, underscore the company’s financial strength and its capacity to fund future green energy initiatives. These financial strategies are vital for ensuring the continued investment required to achieve India’s ambitious solar power targets under the National Solar Mission and the broader Energy Transition Roadmap.
The Karnisar Solar Power Project is more than just an energy initiative; it is a critical piece in India’s broader commitment to climate action and sustainable development. By adding significant clean energy capacity, it directly contributes to reducing the country’s carbon emissions, enhancing energy security, and promoting a more sustainable future for its cities and populace. As NHPC continues to commission the remaining capacity of the 300 MW project, it will further solidify India’s position as a global leader in renewable energy, creating a precedent for other nations to follow in their pursuit of a greener, more equitable world.
Also Read: 40 Industrial Plots Fuel Sustainable Growth in Greater Noida
