Gujarat eyes 3650 MW power generation in future

Gujarat government is hopeful of generating 3650 MW of power through joint synergy of hydroelectric and solar-based projects in future. This would give a boost to local businesses in all segments but specifically in the small and medium enterprises.

The six power units of the Sardar Sarovar project are currently generating 1450 MW hydroelectric power whereas the total length of the canal network interlinked to the project in the state is 85,000 km.

"Even if 10% of the existing canal network is utilised for setting up solar power plants, it will have a potential to generate 2200 MW in addition to 1450 MW of hydro energy," said power minister Saurabh Patel.

Chief Minister Narendra Modi is slated to inaugurate the world's first 1 MW canal-top solar power plant based in Gujarat's Mehsana district.

Patel said there are two power houses at the Sardar Sarovar Project with one having capacity of 1200 MW and another 250 MW.

Currently, the total power (1450 MW) generated at the dam site is proportionately shared among Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat in the ratio of 57:27:16 respectively, Patel said.