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What is a Ground-Mounted Solar Power Plant?

A ground-mounted solar power plant is a large-scale installation where solar panels are positioned on the ground to capture sunlight effectively. These systems can be customized for optimal angles and orientations, making them more efficient than rooftop installations. Ground-mounted systems are particularly suitable for commercial enterprises and utility-scale projects due to their ability to generate significant amounts of electricity.

Types of Ground-Mounted Solar Systems

Standard Ground Mount: This traditional setup uses ground anchors to hold the racking system in place. It is cost-effective and suitable for various land types.

Pole Mount: In this configuration, solar panels are mounted on poles, allowing for better sunlight exposure and easy maintenance. Pole mounts can be adjusted to optimize angles throughout the day.

Tracking Systems: These systems use solar trackers that move the panels to follow the sun’s path, maximizing energy capture throughout the day. Single-axis and dual-axis trackers are available, with dual-axis trackers providing the highest efficiency.

Benefits of Ground-Mounted Solar Power Plants

Optimal Sunlight Exposure: Ground-mounted systems can be strategically positioned to capture maximum sunlight throughout the day, often producing up to 25% more electricity than rooftop systems.

Scalability and Flexibility: These installations can be easily scaled up or down based on energy needs without the limitations imposed by rooftop space. This flexibility makes them ideal for both small and large-scale projects.

Ease of Maintenance: Ground-mounted solar panels are easier to access compared to rooftop systems, simplifying maintenance and cleaning processes.

Land Use Optimization: Ground-mounted systems can be installed on unused land or fallow fields without competing with agricultural or development needs, promoting sustainable land use.

Costs of Ground-Mounted Solar Power Plants

The initial investment for ground-mounted solar power plants can be higher than rooftop installations due to land acquisition costs and installation complexity. However, these systems typically offer a better return on investment over time due to higher energy production and lower maintenance costs. According to industry estimates, the cost of installing a ground-mounted solar system can range from ₹25,000 to ₹30,000 per kW in India.

Subsidies and Incentives

The Indian government offers various subsidies and incentives to promote solar energy adoption. Some key initiatives include:

Solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): These agreements allow businesses to purchase electricity generated by solar plants at predetermined rates.

Capital Subsidies: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) provides capital subsidies for installing solar power plants, which can significantly reduce upfront costs.

Tax Benefits: Businesses investing in solar energy may benefit from accelerated depreciation under Section 32 of the Income Tax Act.

Real-India Case Studies from Tata Power Solar

300 MW Dholera Solar Plant

Tata Power Solar has commissioned a groundbreaking 300 MW solar plant in Dholera, Gujarat, which features India’s largest single-axis solar tracker system. This project will generate approximately 774 million units (MUs) of electricity annually while reducing carbon emissions by about 704,340 metric tons per year. The installation consists of 873,012 monocrystalline PV modules spread across an area of 1,320 acres, divided into six plots of 220 acres each.

Despite challenges such as heavy rains during construction that submerged cable trenches, Tata Power’s execution team utilized innovative solutions like floaters for cable laying and pre-cast ballasts for elevated cable placement. The project was completed within the stipulated timeline, demonstrating Tata Power’s technical expertise and project management capabilities.

Dr. Praveer Sinha, CEO & Managing Director of Tata Power, remarked on this achievement as a proud moment that solidifies Tata Power’s position in the solar EPC space while contributing significantly to India’s renewable energy growth .

300 MW Project with NLC India

Tata Power Solar has been awarded a significant contract for a 300 MW ground-mounted solar project in Rajasthan by NLC India. This project involves an investment of ₹17.5 billion (~$213 million) and is expected to generate over 750 million units of clean energy annually, offsetting approximately 600,000 tons of CO2 emissions each year upon completion by September 2024.

100 MW Project for NTPC in Anantapur

Tata Power Solar successfully commissioned a 100 MW solar project for NTPC in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. This project was notable as it was executed using domestically manufactured cells and modules, aligning with India’s “Make in India” initiative. The plant is expected to generate nearly 160 million units (kWh) of energy per year while helping offset around 110,000 tones of CO2 emissions annually.

30 MW Project at Chandarva, Gujarat

Tata Power Solar commissioned a pioneering 30 MW ground-mounted solar project at Chandarva in Gujarat on wasteland transformed into a solar power plant. This project not only reduced CO2 emissions by approximately 29,442 tons per annum, but it also provided an additional source of income for local farmers by reducing power purchase expenses.

41 MW Collaborative Project with Tata Steel

In collaboration with Tata Steel, Tata Power is developing a grid-connected solar project that combines rooftop, floating, and ground-mounted installations totaling 41 MW across Jharkhand and Odisha. This initiative aims to save over 45,210 tones of CO2 emissions per year, showcasing how corporate partnerships can drive renewable energy adoption.

100 MW Project for SJVN Limited in Gujarat

Tata Power Solar received a Letter of Award (LoA) worth ₹612 crore for setting up a 100 MW ground-mounted project for SJVN Limited in Gujarat. This project reflects Tata Power’s commitment to expanding its footprint in renewable energy generation across India.