Punjab Turns Up the Heat: 125 MW Solar Power Plant to Shine at Goindwal Sahib

Image Source: Hindustan Times

The Punjab government has decided to set up a 125 MW solar power plant at the Sri Guru Amardas Thermal Plant in Goindwal Sahib, a major step towards clean energy and providing steady electricity during the critical summer and paddy seasons. The news was announced by Punjab Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO while visiting the site.

Project Overview

The new solar power facility will be of 125 MW and will be established on 500 acres of land at the Sri Guru Amardas Thermal Plant, Goindwal Sahib.

The project is planned to enhance Punjab's green energy basket and ensure a stable power supply during the summer and the forthcoming paddy season, when demand for power is at its peak.

Background and Investment

The 540 MW Sri Guru Amardas Thermal Plant was bought by the government of Punjab from GVK Company in 2024 for ₹1,080 crore.
The entire plant covers an area of 1,175 acres and has two operational units of 270 MW each.
One of the units has been overhauled and another will be completed by May 10, 2025.

Operational Readiness and Efficiency

The plant now has 41 days of coal inventory, providing unbroken electricity supply during peak seasons.
The efficiency of the plant has increased considerably post-state takeover, with the Plant Load Factor (PLF) increasing from 7% to 77%.
Ten new engineers will be sent to increase the plant's operational capacity.

Advantages to Farmers and Consumers

The project is planned to ensure constant power supply to farmers during the paddy season, which is the peak period for Punjab's agrarian economy.
The decision will lower the cost of generating power and enhance overall service efficiency.

Leadership and Oversight

The announcement was made in the presence of important officials, such as Principal Secretary Ajoy Kumar Sinha, Director Generation Harjit Singh, Director Finance Surinder Kumar Beri, Director Distribution Inderpal Singh, and Chief Engineers from Lehra Mohabbat and Ropar.

Sources: The Tribune India, Yes Punjab, Royal Patiala, Hindustan Times, India News Calling