In a move to boost sustainable energy and support local infrastructure, Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP), a flagship plant of Steel Authority of India (SAIL), has announced the construction of a 200-KW elevated solar power plant at the iconic Maitri Bagh Zoo in Chhattisgarh. This project, in collaboration with the Chhattisgarh Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA), marks a significant step towards renewable energy adoption in the state, making it the first elevated solar power installation of its kind.
The solar plant will be strategically placed above ground level, using elevated solar panels that allow the space underneath to serve dual purposes. This innovative design will enable outdoor seating areas or storage space, along with the ability to grow fodder for zoo animals, thereby promoting eco-friendly and efficient use of available land. The electricity generated from this solar installation will supply power not only to the zoo but also to the Jawahar Udyan, a neighbouring park. The elevated solar plant, designed to be one of the tallest installations in the region, will produce an impressive 24,000 units of electricity every month, which amounts to 288,000 units annually.
The installation will feature high-efficiency monocrystalline bifacial solar modules, designed to maximize energy production by capturing sunlight from both sides of the panel. This will ensure optimum energy output while occupying a smaller land footprint. The plant’s structure will stand at a height of 3.5 meters in the front and rise to 5.5 meters at the rear, with a total weight of approximately 30 tons. The substantial height and weight of the structure are engineered to ensure stability and durability in the face of various environmental conditions. This ambitious project demonstrates Bhilai Steel Plant’s commitment to harnessing renewable energy sources and contributing to India’s broader clean energy goals.
