Morena Solar-Plus-Storage Project Delivers Record-Low ₹2.70/unit Green Power, Setting National Benchmark – EQ
In Short : Madhya Pradesh’s Morena solar-plus-storage project has delivered India’s cheapest firm green power at ₹2.70 per unit, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced. With 95% annual availability, the facility supplies solar energy by day and battery-stored power during peak hours. The project sets a benchmark for affordable, round-the-clock renewable energy, reducing subsidy burdens and showcasing clean power’s competitiveness with thermal generation.
In Detail : Madhya Pradesh’s Morena solar-plus-storage project has achieved a record-low tariff of ₹2.70 per unit for firm and dispatchable renewable energy, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced. This marks a significant milestone in India’s transition to affordable, round-the-clock clean energy.
The facility is the first of its kind in India, offering 95% annual availability, far exceeding the typical \~85% of conventional solar projects. It ensures consistent energy supply even during peak demand periods.
Solar power is supplied directly from the panels during daytime hours, while battery storage delivers electricity in the evening. Early morning demand is met using batteries charged overnight with lower-cost grid power.
The project includes two 220 MW units within a larger 600 MW and 880 MWh dual-cycle capacity setup, awarded under competitive bidding. ACME quoted ₹2.764 per unit for one of the units.
CM Yadav emphasized that this project demonstrates renewable energy with storage can compete effectively with thermal power, providing greener and more affordable electricity to consumers.
The Morena facility is expected to reduce Madhya Pradesh’s electricity subsidy burden. By supplying low-cost clean power, it lowers costs for households, agriculture, and other sectors, supporting the state’s economic and social objectives.
A key innovation is the “Storage-as-a-Service” model, where surplus night-time electricity is used to charge batteries and supply peak morning demand efficiently, enhancing grid reliability and flexibility.
Morena sets a new benchmark for 24-hour renewable energy projects, combining high reliability with competitive costs. It serves as a model for similar initiatives across India, encouraging broader adoption of solar-plus-storage systems.
This development underscores Madhya Pradesh’s commitment to clean energy and demonstrates the potential of solar-plus-storage projects to provide round-the-clock renewable power, reduce subsidies, and support sustainable energy growth nationwide.
