Chandigarh is set to take a significant leap towards sustainable energy with the launch of North India’s largest floating solar power plant, marking a critical step in the Union Territory’s commitment to renewable energy. The ambitious 4 MW floating solar project, to be established at the Sector 39 waterworks, is expected to be operational in the next financial year. This initiative falls under Chandigarh’s broader goal of installing 8 MWp solar power projects by 2025-26, reinforcing its status as a model city for clean energy initiatives.
With an estimated cost of ₹24 crore, the project is being spearheaded by the Chandigarh Renewable Energy and Science & Technology Promotion Society (CREST), an agency under the UT administration responsible for advancing renewable energy solutions. Floating solar plants, apart from generating sustainable electricity, play a crucial role in reducing water evaporation, making them particularly advantageous in regions facing water conservation challenges. Chandigarh has already made notable strides in this space, with three floating solar power plants contributing a combined capacity of 5 MWp. Additionally, a 3 MWp floating solar project is ready for commissioning and is expected to be fully functional by March 2025.
The city’s commitment to solar energy is reflected in its growing installed capacity, which stood at 89.689 MWp as of February 2024. This capacity spans across 10,234 government and private buildings, with Chandigarh holding the distinction of being the first city in India to achieve 100% rooftop solar coverage for all government buildings, encompassing both office spaces and residential quarters. Of this, 52.852 MWp comes from government rooftop installations alone. The initiative not only aids in reducing carbon emissions but also significantly cuts down electricity costs for public institutions, aligning with the larger national goal of transitioning towards renewable energy sources.
Further expanding its renewable energy footprint, the Chandigarh administration is exploring additional avenues for solar energy deployment. The Department of Environment has initiated feasibility studies to assess the potential of installing solar panels in large city parks and along its extensive network of cycle tracks. With nearly 200 km of cycle tracks interwoven across Chandigarh, several sections have been identified as suitable locations for solar panel installations. This initiative aims to strike a balance between sustainability, urban aesthetics, and ease of maintenance while ensuring financial viability. The move is expected to contribute to the city’s broader sustainability goals, enabling it to harness solar energy while utilising existing infrastructure.
As Chandigarh progresses towards a clean energy-driven future, its approach to solar adoption serves as an exemplary model for other urban centres. The upcoming floating solar plant and its continued expansion in the renewable sector underscore the city’s commitment to innovative and sustainable solutions. By integrating solar energy across diverse spaces, from rooftops to water bodies and public parks, the UT is reinforcing its leadership in India’s renewable energy transition. The success of these initiatives will not only help Chandigarh meet its green energy targets but also inspire similar interventions across other cities aiming for a sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
