MP News: From 4 Hrs To Round-The-Clock; Morena Solar Plant To Boost Storage

**Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Morena Solar Project to Expand Storage Capacity for Round-the-Clock Power Supply**

The New and Renewable Energy Department of Madhya Pradesh is planning to increase the storage capacity of the Morena Solar Project from the current 4 hours to a full 24-hour round-the-clock supply in a phased manner. Presently, the project’s storage capacity lasts only 4 hours. According to sources, there are plans to boost this capacity gradually—from 4 hours to 6, 8, 10, and eventually 24 hours.

Recently, the Morena Solar Project achieved a record low tariff of Rs 2.70 per unit, making it an economically viable option for clean energy production. Once the 24-hour storage capacity is attained, Madhya Pradesh could potentially supply stored solar power to other states in need.

**Collaboration with Berkeley University of California**

In support of the state’s solar energy initiatives, Berkeley University of California opened a center in Bhopal last month. A senior official from the New and Renewable Energy Department confirmed that this collaboration with the international university aims to enhance the development and implementation of solar projects across Madhya Pradesh.

**Future Plans for Morena and Beyond**

Additional Chief Secretary Manu Shrivastava told the Free Press that the Morena Solar Project’s storage capacity will be increased in future phases. He also indicated the possibility of supplying stored solar power to other states once the full round-the-clock capacity is achieved.

Beyond Morena, new solar projects are being planned in the Dhar and Shivpuri districts, expanding the state’s renewable energy footprint.

**Pumped Storage Hydropower Project in Neemuch**

Meanwhile, work is progressing steadily on a pumped storage hydropower project in Neemuch. This innovative project will pump water from lakes or rivers to a hilltop reservoir during the daytime, and then release it at night to generate hydroelectric power. The initiative is expected to support clean energy production around the clock, complementing solar power generation efforts.

With these strategic developments, Madhya Pradesh is poised to strengthen its position as a leader in renewable energy, ensuring reliable and sustainable power supply for its citizens and contributing to the nation’s clean energy goals.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/mp-news-from-4-hrs-to-round-the-clock-morena-solar-plant-to-boost-storage