Ciel & Terre’s largest Floating Solar Project in India unleashes the power of the Sun on Water with a 120MWp Floating Solar Marvel at Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh. This project commissioned in August 2024, was developed in collaboration with L&T and SJVN Green Energy Limited to generate power for RUMSL (Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Limited).
The Floating Solar PV Power Plant, built on the freshwater reservoir of Omkareshwar Dam, covers 210 acres, which constitutes 20% of the total 1060-acre water area. It exemplifies the potential of floating solar technology to contribute to India’s renewable energy goals while preserving land resources. By harnessing the natural cooling effect of water bodies, this plant is expected to deliver higher energy efficiency and output, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and aiding in the transition to sustainable energy, eradicating over 1,13,406 tons of CO2 emissions annually. This project features 407,699 Hydrelio floats, configured with the aiR OPTIM 1400-3 model in 3-row setup. The plant comprises 14 individual islands, each with a capacity of 8.5MWp.
Many first-of-their-kind were unveiled in this project by Ciel & Terre:
A new anchoring technique called ‘Rock bolt anchoring’ to combat the hard rock surface was introduced. Ciel & Terre Int. R&D team developed and customized this technology through a rigorous testing methodology that spanned several years
World’s first customized floating invertor barge has been deployed on this mega project. It is based on reinforced fibre glass polymer, a unique design that can withstand hard site conditions.
The FRP barge is approved for deployment on rivers and lakes and can carry over 40 tons, which is ideal for Power transformers, Inverters and Switchgears. It offers a 50% higher strength-to-weight ratio than steel. It is 30% lighter and reduce costs.
A robust leak proof technology is introduced for the floating system through spin welding method. This technology accommodates the thermal expansion of floats during high temperature to prevent any kind of water ingress as well as cracks to the float.
Ciel Et Terre India, MD & CEO Mr. Deepak Ushadevi said: “When we embarked on this journey, we knew it would be a real challenging and tough project, but we also knew that with the right technology, right team, and right mindset, we would achieve success. The hard work, dedication, and collaboration displayed in this moment are a live testament of it.
Various challenges were faced during this project, such as torrential rain, floods, moderate winds to gusty winds, scorching sunburns, and waves & weathered rock surfaces. We found solutions, adjusted and conserved each time. This experience not only strengthened our team but also enhanced our ability to deliver bigger & complex projects with even greater efficiency & bold innovations.”
Ciel & Terre, a global leader in floating solar technology has commissioned more than 10+ projects in India with cumulative capacity of 425+ MWp. Globally Ciel & Terre has commissioned 325+ projects in 30+ countries with the capacity of 3.2 GWp installed and under various stages, Ciel & Terre vision is to make floating solar an essential energy source worldwide.
