In big boost to Modi’s power push, Adani sets up world’s largest solar plant in India

It took 8,500 men working two shifts every day for six months – and three shifts for two months – to finish, ahead of schedule, the Adani Group’s giant solar power plant in southern India.

The vast, 10 sq km project in Ramanathapuram, in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, is the world’s largest solar power station in a single location, according to the company.

It has the capacity to power 150,000 homes – and it is one sign of how serious India is becoming about meeting its renewable energy targets.

Considering the delays that commonly bog down infrastructure projects in India, the speed at which the 648 megawatt project was completed demonstrates the country’s commitment to renewables, said an analyst.

“The government is very clear about its solar plan, and large installations are key to this plan,” said Aruna Kumarankandath of the Centre for Science and Environment in Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi “is a real evangelist”, and has prioritised solar to meet the renewables target, she said. Read more…