Archive · 3 Jun 2025
Goa Scraps Floating Solar Panel Plan; Eyes Canal-Side Installation
Goa was thinking about putting solar panels on top of the water in dams, like floating islands, to make electricity.
But they changed their mind!
Now, they are planning to put solar panels on the sides of canals instead.
The goal is to get half of Goa's power from clean energy by 2030.
A company wanted to build the floating solar panels, but the government worried it might make the water dirty.
The new plan uses land near the canals, which is already empty.
It's like they found a new, better place to put their solar panels!
Goa will not proceed with floating solar projects on dams, according to the Chief Minister.
The government is considering installing solar panels on the sides of irrigation canals instead.
The state aims to generate 50% of its power from renewable sources by 2030.
SJVN Green Energy Ltd (SGEL) proposed floating solar projects, but the plan was rejected.
The Water Resources Department (WRD) turned down SGEL's proposal due to potential water pollution concerns.
- Who
- Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Water Resources Department (WRD), and SJVN Green Energy Ltd (SGEL).
- What
- The government has decided against floating solar panel projects and is now exploring installing solar panels on canal sides.
- When
- The decision was recently made, and the government is currently considering the new proposal.
- Where
- Goa, specifically on potential canal-side locations.
- Why
- To generate renewable energy and meet the state's goal of 50% renewable energy by 2030.
Original Proposal (SGEL)
Government's Plan
Project Location
Original Proposal (SGEL)
Proposed floating solar panels on dams to generate 198MW of power.
Government's Plan
Considering solar panels on the sides of irrigation canals instead.
Water Quality
Original Proposal (SGEL)
Stated that floating panels could improve water quality.
Government's Plan
WRD cited potential pollution as a reason for rejecting the plan.
- Chief Minister
- Pramod Sawant
- Proposed Power Generation
- 198MW (SGEL proposal)
- Renewable Energy Target
- 50% by 2030
- Original Project Type
- Floating Solar Panels
- Alternative Location
- Sides of irrigation canals