Solar power plants in Karnataka to get battery storage system: Energy minister KJ George

Going ahead, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) will be installed in all power plants in Karnataka, Energy Minister K J George announced on Friday. 

Though the state has been power surplus for years now, the department was struggling to meet the power demand during summer because as there was no option to store the surplus solar and wind power. With BESS, renewable energy produced during the morning hours can be stored to be used as and when required. 

“Renewable energy now accounts for 65% of Karnataka’s total power generation. Although solar and wind energy production has grown significantly, effective storage systems are essential to store this energy and supply it when needed. Storage ensures grid stability and enables better energy management, especially during periods of demand. The central government is also promoting storage projects,” George said. 

Speaking at the inauguration of a fully automated 5 GWh Battery Energy Storage Unit set up by Pace Digitek’s Lineage Power in Bidadi, George laid out the Energy department’s plan to on storage systems. 

“We plan to implement major storage projects, including the 2,000-MW Sharavathi Pumped Storage plant, 1,500 MW at Varahi, 1,000 MW at Pavagada, and a 2,000-MW battery storage facility at Rapte. The detailed project report (DPR) for the Sharavathi project has already been approved by the Central Electricity Authority. The project will be developed between Talakalale in Shivamogga and the Gerusoppa reservoirs in Uttara Kannada, downstream of Linganamakki,” he explained. 

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi said battery storage systems are crucial for achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). 

“The central government is according high priority on developing storage infrastructure to ensure that solar and wind power can be effectively utilised even during non-generation hours. It is encouraging to note that Karnataka is leading with projects like Sharavathi and Varahi pumped storage. Battery storage also offers immense investment potential, and I urge entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in this growing sector,” he said.