What is India's potential for floating solar PV?

India's floating solar PV potential is estimated to be between 280 GW and 300 GW, according to the World Bank.

Why is India promoting floating solar projects?

Floating solar PV projects are being promoted as an alternative avenue to scale up solar power, particularly due to prevailing land constraints faced in traditional renewable energy projects.

What actions are being taken to boost floating solar development?

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is urging states to identify water bodies, develop supportive policy frameworks, and implement innovative solutions like plug and pay models.

Home / Environment / India Eyes Vast Water Surfaces for Solar Power

India Eyes Vast Water Surfaces for Solar Power

21 Feb

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Summary

India aims to develop floating solar PV on water bodies.
Potential identified for 280 GW to 300 GW of floating solar.
Ministry urges states to identify sites and develop policy.

India Eyes Vast Water Surfaces for Solar Power

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is actively encouraging Indian states to pinpoint and prioritize water bodies for the development of floating solar photovoltaic (FSPV) projects. This strategic push aims to unlock an immense potential estimated by the World Bank to be between 280 GW and 300 GW. Currently, India has operationalized only 700 MW of FSPV.

The Ministry organized a consultation workshop on February 20th, 2026, to discuss draft reports and policy frameworks for FSPV. The focus was on innovative solutions like 'plug and pay' models and ensuring sites are allotted with necessary approvals to mitigate developer risks.

Recognizing land scarcity as a significant challenge for renewable energy expansion, MNRE views FSPV as a critical alternative. To accelerate growth, the ministry will consult further with environmental and safety authorities on the FSPV policy. States have been urged to conduct internal stakeholder consultations and identify potential sites for FSPV development.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.