Rajasthan, a state in India once known for its forts and deserts, is rapidly transforming into the country’s leading hub for clean energy. The state is leveraging its abundant sunshine, effective governance, and bold policy reforms to become the forefront of India’s solar energy revolution. At the center of this transformation is the Pugal solar park in Bikaner, which will be the largest solar park in India with a capacity of 2,450 megawatts and 5,000 megawatt-hours of battery energy storage.
The project is expected to be operational by November 2027 and has secured the lowest tariffs in the country. Additionally, four large battery energy storage projects are being developed, offering nearly 6,000 megawatt-hours of storage at an investment of Rs 6,000 crore. These projects will help meet peak electricity demand, reduce dependence on expensive power purchases, and ensure round-the-clock energy availability, bringing India closer to true energy self-reliance.
Rajasthan’s renewable energy capacity has increased to 41,189 megawatts, with solar power alone accounting for 35,337 megawatts. The state contributes 27.2 percent of India’s total solar capacity and 16.43 percent of the country’s overall renewable energy capacity, establishing itself as a national leader. In the last two years, Rajasthan has added 17,820 megawatts of renewable energy capacity, with 17,326 megawatts of it being solar.
The state government has approved the allocation of land for major renewable energy initiatives, including 161.45 hectares in Karni Sar and 356.25 hectares in Kharnai village for the development of solar power projects. A 765 KV substation will also be established in Sokharu, Barmer district, to enhance the state’s renewable energy transmission network and ensure a reliable power supply to citizens.
Overall, Rajasthan is poised to become the backbone of India’s solar energy future, with projects totaling 45 gigawatts currently under development. The state’s rapid growth in renewable energy capacity and its commitment to clean energy make it an attractive destination for investors and a model for other states to follow. With its abundant sunshine and effective governance, Rajasthan is well on its way to becoming a leader in India’s clean energy revolution.