New Delhi: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana, a new initiative aimed at promoting floating solar power generation across the country. The scheme has been approved with a total outlay of ₹5,070 crore.
Announcing the Cabinet decision, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the scheme seeks to accelerate the development of floating solar photovoltaic (PV) projects integrated with energy storage systems, strengthening India’s renewable energy capacity while making efficient use of water bodies.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana, the Government plans to develop 5,000 MW of Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FSPV) projects across the country. These projects will be equipped with co-located Energy Storage Systems (ESS) to ensure reliable power supply and improve grid stability.
The scheme mandates a minimum energy storage capacity of two hours, translating into a total storage capacity of 10,000 MWh for the planned projects. The integrated storage systems are expected to enhance the reliability of renewable energy by enabling power generated during peak sunlight hours to be stored and supplied when required.
According to the Government, the initiative will help optimise the use of reservoirs, lakes, and other water bodies for clean energy generation while reducing pressure on land resources. Floating solar installations also help improve the efficiency of solar panels due to the cooling effect of water and can contribute to reducing water evaporation from reservoirs.
The Government expects the scheme to strengthen India’s renewable energy infrastructure, support the country’s clean energy transition, and contribute to its long-term climate and energy security goals. The development of large-scale floating solar projects is also expected to encourage investment, generate employment, and promote technological innovation in the renewable energy sector.
The Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to expand non-fossil fuel energy capacity and move towards a cleaner, more sustainable, and resilient energy ecosystem.