In a major boost to India’s renewable energy ambitions, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) today inaugurated the 435 MW Gorbea Solar Power Project in Rajasthan. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi led the inauguration, hailing the project as a testament to India’s clean energy momentum and Rajasthan’s emergence as a solar powerhouse. Developed by Zelestra India, the project is backed by a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), ensuring long-term viability and grid integration.
The Gorbea solar park was completed in a record time of less than eight months and spans approximately 1,250 acres. It features advanced TOPCon bifacial mono PERC solar modules and is equipped with over 1,300 robotic cleaning units to maximize energy efficiency. The supporting infrastructure including a fully equipped substation and a 6.5-kilometre transmission line was also developed in just five months, showcasing engineering excellence and timely execution.
The project is expected to generate over 755 GWh of electricity annually, which is sufficient to power nearly 1.3 lakh homes. Additionally, it will offset approximately 705,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year, significantly contributing to India’s decarbonization efforts. Minister Joshi emphasized that the project also serves as a socio-economic model, having provided employment to over 700 local workers during the construction phase and offering farmers a steady income through land leasing partnerships.
Rajasthan continues to lead India’s green energy transition, with over 35.4 GW of installed power capacity, of which more than 70% is now sourced from renewable energy 29.5 GW from solar and 5.2 GW from wind. The state has also been an enthusiastic participant in national programs such as PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and PM-KUSUM. Over 49,000 rooftop solar systems have already been installed under the Surya Ghar initiative, with ₹325 crore disbursed in subsidies. However, more than 2.7 lakh applications are still pending, indicating massive demand and scope for expansion. Under PM-KUSUM, Rajasthan has installed nearly 1.45 lakh solar pumps, supporting irrigation and rural energy security.
Minister Joshi also highlighted the state’s untapped wind potential of 284 GW and called for greater focus on wind-solar hybrid systems for grid stability. He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to achieving 50% non-fossil fuel-based power capacity well ahead of the 2030 target, crediting progressive policy reforms such as the Integrated Clean Energy Policy 2024 and India’s Green Hydrogen Mission for drawing over ₹6.5 lakh crore in renewable energy investment in 2024 alone.
Zelestra India, the project’s developer, is part of a globally integrated clean energy firm with a portfolio of 29 GW across 13 countries. In India, it manages a pipeline of 5.4 GW, with 1.7 GW already contracted. The Gorbea project is a strong example of its execution capabilities and its commitment to delivering affordable, large-scale renewable power for a sustainable future.
The successful inauguration of the Gorbea Solar Power Project not only strengthens Rajasthan’s renewable infrastructure but also signals a broader national shift toward cleaner, faster, and more inclusive energy development.
