New Delhi: In a notable step towards bolstering India’s renewable energy portfolio, NHPC Ltd announced the commercial operation of the fourth phase (53.57 MW) of the 300 MW Karnisar Solar Power Project located in Bikaner, Rajasthan. With this milestone, the cumulative operational capacity of the project has now reached 214.28 MW, as per the company’s latest filing with the stock exchanges.
Successful Trial Run Precedes Phase 4 Commercialization
The company confirmed that the trial run for the fourth phase was successfully completed on 29 June 2025, following which the Commercial Operation Date (COD) for the 53.57 MW capacity was officially declared on 30 June 2025.
“The balance capacity of the project will be declared commercially operational in due course,” NHPC stated.
The project is a significant component of NHPC’s expanding non-hydro renewable energy portfolio, aligned with the Government of India’s vision for clean energy transition and solar capacity expansion.
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Subansiri Lower Hydro Project Still Awaits NDSA Clearance
In a separate regulatory filing, NHPC also updated on the status of its much-anticipated Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project (2000 MW), located on the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border. The company noted that clearance from the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) is still awaited for the commercial operation of three units, each of 250 MW capacity.
Once operational, Subansiri will become India’s largest hydroelectric power project, playing a vital role in balancing renewable intermittency and grid stability.
A Boost to Clean Energy Targets
The phased commissioning of the Karnisar Solar Project is expected to contribute significantly to Rajasthan’s status as a solar energy hub, while reinforcing NHPC’s efforts to diversify beyond hydro. The company, traditionally known for its large-scale hydropower infrastructure, is increasingly making inroads into solar and wind energy projects to align with national clean energy commitments.
About NHPC
NHPC Limited, formerly known as National Hydroelectric Power Corporation, is India’s premier hydropower company under the Ministry of Power. Established in 1975, NHPC has diversified into solar and wind energy and plays a crucial role in the country’s clean energy transition.
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