Gorbea Solar Project
The Gorbea Solar Power Project in Rajasthan was inaugurated in July 2025 by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi. This 435 MW plant was built in under eight months. It represents a major milestone in India’s renewable energy expansion. The project will supply clean power to 128,000 households and cut carbon emissions by 705,000 tonnes annually. It marks India’s commitment to sustainable growth and energy security.
Project Overview
The Gorbea project covers 1,250 acres in Bikaner district. It operates under a 25-year power purchase agreement with the Solar Energy Corporation of India. The plant uses advanced Topcon Bifacial Mono PERC solar panels. These panels capture sunlight from both sides to boost efficiency. Over 1,300 robotic units maintain the panels, ensuring optimal performance.
Renewable Energy Capacity in Rajasthan
Rajasthan now generates about 70 per cent of its power from renewable sources. The state’s installed renewable capacity stands at 35.4 GW. Solar power contributes 29.5 GW while wind power adds 5.2 GW. The state’s policies promote clean energy growth and investment. In 2024, Rajasthan launched the Integrated Clean Energy Policy and Green Hydrogen Policy to further support this sector.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The Gorbea project supports local employment and farmer incomes. It produces 755 gigawatt-hours of clean electricity yearly. This reduces dependence on fossil fuels and lowers pollution. The project’s carbon savings of 705,000 tonnes per year contribute to climate goals. It aligns with India’s target to reach 50 per cent non-fossil fuel power capacity ahead of the 2030 deadline.
Technological Innovation and Future Prospects
The project showcases cutting-edge solar technology and automation. Minister Joshi emphasised adopting emerging technologies like perovskite tandem solar cells. These cells promise higher efficiency than conventional panels. Pilot projects for such innovations are encouraged in high solar irradiance areas like Rajasthan. The state also holds an untapped wind energy potential of 284 GW, ideal for hybrid wind-solar projects.
Government Schemes and Investments
Rajasthan has installed over 49,000 rooftop solar systems under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar scheme. Subsidies exceeding Rs 325 crore have been disbursed. Over 145,000 solar pumps for farmers are operational under the PM-KUSUM scheme. The state attracted investment proposals worth Rs 6.57 lakh crore, mostly in renewable energy and green hydrogen sectors. However, many applications for rooftop solar remain pending, indicating scope for faster implementation.
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