UP’s First Floating Solar Power Plant to Be Set Up in Lalitpur Reservoir

Uttar Pradesh has approved the state’s first floating solar power plant, which will be installed on the Maudaha reservoir in Lalitpur district as part of its clean energy expansion strategy. The project was sanctioned by the Uttar Pradesh government under the Solar Energy Policy-2022 and will be developed by Gas Authority of India Ltd (GAIL) with an investment of ₹257 crore. The 49 MW floating solar project is expected to be operational within 18 months, delivering clean, reliable power while utilising existing water bodies instead of land.

The plant will use solar photovoltaic (PV) modules mounted on floating structures, which help reduce land use pressure and improve panel performance through natural cooling from water bodies. By generating solar power on water surfaces, the project aims to cut carbon emissions and strengthen the region’s renewable energy infrastructure. In addition to Lalitpur, Uttar Pradesh has identified five other reservoirs including Barusagar, Dukma, Pathrai, Gunta, and Upper Khajuri dams for future floating solar projects with a combined potential of about 440 MW in the first phase.

Officials from the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA) stated that the approval marks a significant milestone in utilising reservoirs and dams for large-scale renewable energy projects. The power generated will be used as captive energy for GAIL’s gas processing operations, reducing operational costs and enhancing sustainability. The broader deployment of floating solar systems is also expected to support industrial decarbonisation and contribute to Uttar Pradesh’s renewable goals under national energy targets.

The Lalitpur floating solar initiative demonstrates a growing trend toward innovative solar installations that maximise space efficiency and environmental benefits. OrnateSolar continues to support such advancements by offering custom solar solutions, including floating and ground-mounted solar systems designed for optimal performance and long-term savings.

Resource: Hindustan Times

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