Maharashtra Eyes Ekrukh Reservoir Green Investment
Maharashtra has initiated the next phase of sustainable infrastructure planning by inviting private sector participation for renewable energy generation and fisheries development at the Ekrukh Reservoir in Solapur district. The twin proposals signal a broader effort to maximise the economic and environmental value of existing water infrastructure while supporting clean energy, rural livelihoods and resource-efficient development through public-private partnerships. The state Water Resources Department has issued separate Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for two projects at the reservoir. One proposal seeks developers for a floating solar project integrated with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), while the second focuses on establishing a long-term fisheries and aquaculture programme. Both initiatives are expected to diversify the functional use of the reservoir beyond irrigation, creating multiple economic benefits from a single public asset.
The proposed floating solar project is planned under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with the selected developer expected to undertake the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the floating photovoltaic system along with battery storage infrastructure. Floating solar installations are increasingly being viewed as an efficient alternative for renewable power generation because they avoid competition for scarce land resources, reduce water evaporation and can improve the operational efficiency of solar panels through the cooling effect of water. Energy experts believe combining floating solar technology with battery storage can improve grid reliability by enabling electricity generated during peak sunshine hours to be stored and supplied when demand increases. As Maharashtra continues to expand renewable energy capacity, such integrated systems could contribute to the state’s long-term energy transition while supporting national clean energy objectives.
Alongside renewable energy, the government is also inviting proposals to strengthen organised fisheries management at Ekrukh Reservoir. The selected entity will receive fishing rights for a decade and will be expected to introduce scientific aquaculture practices that enhance fish production while protecting the ecological health of the reservoir. Sustainable fisheries development has emerged as an important component of rural economic planning, generating employment opportunities and improving incomes for communities dependent on inland water resources. Officials have indicated that interested developers, engineering firms and eligible consortiums can obtain bidding documents through the state’s electronic procurement platform. A pre-bid consultation has been scheduled during July, with proposal submissions closing in early August. The current invitation does not specify financial security requirements, suggesting these may be introduced during subsequent procurement stages. Urban and environmental planners increasingly view reservoirs as multi-functional infrastructure capable of supporting water security, renewable energy, biodiversity conservation and local economic activity simultaneously. The Ekrukh initiative reflects this evolving planning approach by integrating energy generation with sustainable resource management rather than treating reservoirs solely as water storage assets.
As Maharashtra advances climate resilience and low-carbon infrastructure goals, the outcome of these EOIs could shape future models for combining clean energy investment with ecological stewardship and livelihood creation across the state’s extensive network of reservoirs.
