India launches 126 MW floating solar power plant

India has launched its largest floating solar park, the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Park, located in Madhya Pradesh. This innovative project spans 642 acres and has a capacity of 126 megawatts (MW). It aims to boost the country’s renewable energy efforts while effectively utilizing water resources. The park features over 213,460 solar panels capable of generating approximately 204,580 megawatt-hours (MWh) of clean energy each year. This output is expected to power thousands of homes in the region. Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited and Larsen & Toubro, a major player in renewable energy, have been crucial to the project's development and success. Beyond energy production, the floating solar park helps reduce water evaporation from the reservoir, conserving around 32.5 million cubic meters of water annually. Additionally, by utilizing water bodies for energy generation, it frees up land for agriculture and other essential uses. The project also aims to offset nearly 174,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions every year. India continues to expand its renewable energy capacity, with goals to reach 500 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. Projects like the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Park emphasize the country's commitment to sustainability and its potential leadership in the global shift towards cleaner energy solutions.