In Short : Orb Energy has launched its first 35 MW ground-mounted solar park in Karnataka. This development marks a significant step in expanding the company’s solar energy footprint and contributes to Karnataka’s renewable energy capacity.
In Detail : Orb Energy, a prominent name in the Indian solar power industry, has inaugurated its first 35 MW (DC) ground-mounted solar park in Arsikere, Hassan district. Spread across 110 acres, this solar park is set to deliver 5.24 crore units of green energy annually, significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 45,000 tons each year. This initiative specifically aims to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region.
In its statement, Orb Energy highlighted its ambitious plan to develop and commission approximately 400 MW of solar parks for SMEs across India by the end of the decade, with an estimated investment of Rs 2,000 crore.
“With 27 MW (DC) already commissioned across 90 acres, Orb Energy projects the completion of its SME-centric solar park by the middle of the current financial year. Our innovative solar park model allows enterprises to purchase plots and own their own solar sub-arrays within the overall park. This concept has been highly successful among SMEs in Karnataka”, the company said.
To facilitate SMEs in owning their portion of the solar park, Orb Energy has introduced a unique collateral-free, in-house financing facility. This five-year financing option enables SMEs seeking off-site solar solutions to transition quickly and cost-effectively. According to Orb Energy, owners of off-site solar systems can expect electricity costs to drop to approximately 3.5-4.0 rupees per unit over the system’s lifetime, significantly lower than the current grid tariff rates of Rs 8-9 per unit.
This arrangement offers mutual benefits to both distribution companies (discoms) and enterprises by leveraging existing infrastructure for increased electricity generation, thereby addressing growing demand while enhancing SME competitiveness.
Damian Miller, Co-Founder and CEO of Orb Energy, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “We recognized that many SMEs with significant power needs and limited roof space required an off-site solar solution. This unique solar park model enables SMEs to buy their own plots and solar sub-arrays. This innovative approach has been embraced by SMEs across various industries, such as foundries, die-cast companies, precision components, and malls, empowering them to take control of their rising electricity bills and enhance their competitiveness”.
Miller also announced plans for a second solar park in Karnataka to further support their SME clients, demonstrating Orb Energy’s commitment to expanding its sustainable energy solutions for businesses across India.
This solar park not only supports SMEs by providing a cost-effective and sustainable energy solution but also contributes to India’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy. With this development, Orb Energy is poised to play a crucial role in the transition to greener energy sources for Indian enterprises.
