Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Apr 3: Goa’s ambitious plan to generate around 197 MW of renewable energy by installing floating solar panels on dams has hit a major snag. The Water Resources Department (WRD) has stalled the Rs 1,300 crore project, citing concerns that it may contaminate the dam water—a critical source of drinking water for the state.

The proposal, submitted in January last year by Central government-owned SJVN Green Energy Ltd (SGEL) in partnership with the Goa Energy Development Agency (GEDA), aims to set up four floating solar installations across the Selaulim, Amthanem, Anjunem, and Chapoli dams. To support the project, SGEL and GEDA conducted preliminary hydrological studies of the reservoirs to assess their suitability for floating solar power generation.

WRD chief Pramod Badami told The Goan that the file has been returned, adding, “There is nothing so far.” Although he declined to explain further, sources revealed that the department raised several issues. Concerns include the potential blockage of sunlight by the solar panel array, which could disrupt the thermal gradient and reduce water turnover efficiency, in addition to the risk of water contamination.

To address these worries, the project proponents proposed using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) as the floater material. Known for its inert, non-toxic properties, durability, and resistance to ultraviolet rays, HDPE is designed to minimize the leaching of harmful substances into the reservoir. GEDA even suggested an independent feasibility study by a reputable national institute, but WRD rejected the proposal.

With limited land available for ground-mounted solar installations, the Central government is increasingly turning to aquatic systems as a viable alternative. Proponents of the project argue that only 20 percent of the dam’s surface would be utilized, making it the best option given the state's constraints.

The project has already received approval from the Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Ramakrishna Dhavalikar, who envisions it as a key step toward helping Goa meet its green energy targets. According to the proposal, the state would purchase power from the PSU at a rate of Rs 3.8-4.3 per kWh. The planned capacities include 134.80 MW at the Salaulim dam, 27.60 MW each at the Anjunem and Chapoli dams, and 7.23 MW at the Amthanem dam. Meanwhile, SGEL is also commissioning a 15 MW floating solar project at the Nangal Dam Reservoir.