Chandigarh is making headlines once again as it prepares to install India’s largest floating solar power plant at the Sector 39 waterworks. With a proposed capacity of 4 megawatt peak (MWp), this ambitious project marks a major step toward the Union Territory’s (UT) vision of becoming a model solar city by 2030.
The city, known for its progressive infrastructure and eco-friendly initiatives, has already established itself as a frontrunner in floating solar energy. Chandigarh has successfully commissioned north India’s largest floating solar plant with a capacity of 2.5 MWp at the same location. An additional 3 MWp floating plant has also been completed and is expected to be commissioned soon.
A Green Leap Forward in Renewable Energy
The Chandigarh Renewable Energy and Science and Technology Promotion Society (CREST) is spearheading the city’s green energy movement. Officials confirmed that these new floating and rooftop solar initiatives will help meet the city’s target of generating an additional 15 MWp of solar power by the end of 2025.
To support this vision, CREST is also planning a 1 MWp solar power plant atop parking sheds at the IT Park, expanding upon the solar infrastructure already present in the area.
Strategic Use of Rooftops Across the City
In addition to floating plants, CREST is turning idle rooftop space into productive energy sources. Solar power plants are being planned on Chandigarh Housing Board (CHB) buildings, municipal corporation offices, and other government-owned structures. This decentralized approach ensures that every viable surface contributes to energy independence.
Currently, Chandigarh boasts a cumulative solar power generation capacity of 90 MWp, spread across 10,988 sites. This extensive solar network has already produced 270.26 million units (MU) of clean electricity, preventing approximately 186,479 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, according to CREST officials.
Government Buildings Fully Solarized
Under the Solar City Mission, Chandigarh has achieved 100% solar saturation in all government residential buildings and offices as of December 31, 2024. This includes the installation of solar panels across 6,627 government sites, generating 18.1 MWp and producing an estimated 23.5 MUs of solar power annually. The resulting energy savings are projected at ₹12.69 crore per year, significantly reducing the burden on public finances.
Solar Power in Schools: A Model for Other Cities
Chandigarh is also setting an example in the education sector by integrating solar power into government schools. Of the 114 government schools surveyed, 108 were found suitable for rooftop solar systems. These installations generated 7.32 MU of solar energy last year, surpassing the schools’ consumption of 6.1 MU, and producing surplus clean electricity for the grid.
Chandigarh on the National Solar Map
Recognizing the city’s efforts, the Union Ministry of Power has included Chandigarh among 34 cities selected for transformation under the National Solar Cities program. This designation affirms the UT’s leadership in renewable energy and opens doors to additional funding, research, and innovation support from the central government.
Chandigarh Leading India’s Clean Energy Revolution
Chandigarh’s bold steps in renewable energy, particularly through floating and rooftop solar projects, highlight its commitment to a greener and more sustainable future. With projects like the Sector 39 floating solar power plant, the city is setting a national benchmark for other urban centers.
As India moves towards its 2030 sustainability goals, Chandigarh stands tall as a beacon of progress, innovation, and environmental responsibility. The city’s evolving solar ecosystem not only saves energy and money but also inspires citizens and governments alike to adopt eco-conscious policies.