How Can I Install a 1MW Solar Power Plant?

A 1MW solar power plant, equivalent to 1000kW, is typically installed on university campuses, in manufacturing plants, warehouses, residential societies, and more. This type of solar installation is known as a utility-scale project and is usually set up as a ground-mounted system. Solar plants like these can be installed for self-consumption or as an investment to sell electricity. This blog post is designed to guide readers interested in installing such a system for their own use or to generate income. Let’s dive in and learn more.

How Does a 1MW Solar Power Plant Work?

A 1MW solar power plant is customized based on client requirements. It can be designed as a completely on-grid system or a combination of on-grid and hybrid to ensure continuous electricity availability. Many installation sites have various power sources, such as the National Grid, generators, solar power, wind power, and more. Based on consumer requirements, the system can be optimized to meet specific needs. You can refer to the images above for a better understanding.

What Are the Major Components of a 1MW Solar Power Plant?

When designing utility-scale projects, we include PV modules, inverters, and Balance of System (BoS) components. We also recommend transformers for optimal functionality. For ground-mounted projects, TOPCon and HJT PV Modules are ideal due to their high efficiency (22-23%), low degradation, and favorable temperature coefficient. These modules are based on bifacial PV cell technology, which enhances energy output.

The second major component is the PV inverter, which can be a string inverter or a power optimizer with a string stringer configuration. The third component is the BoS, which includes the mounting structure, DC wiring, DCDB/ACDB, LT panel, and earthing equipment.

How Will This Power Plant Function During a Power Cut?

A common concern during solar power installations is how the system performs during grid failure or rainy seasons. During these times, the solar plant might not generate electricity. To address this, a Battery Storage System (also called a Micro Grid) can store excess energy when power consumption is lower than generation. Additionally, a hybrid inverter converts DC to AC current to power essential appliances. In certain cases, especially in manufacturing, a Generator Synchronization Device is used. This device enables approximately 70% of energy to be sourced from solar power, while the remaining 30% is generated by the backup generator.

What Are the Main Benefits of Switching to Solar Power?

As electricity is essential in our lives, demand for power continues to grow due to the increasing use of household appliances, industrial machinery, and more. Since coal remains the primary source of electricity, conserving natural resources has become crucial. Shifting to green energy, like solar power, provides significant benefits. It helps reduce electricity bills, enables self-generated power for commercial purposes, and offers energy independence in areas with frequent power cuts. Additionally, business owners who install solar systems can benefit from government tax incentives of up to 40%. This can offset the investment over time, making solar an economically sound choice.

How Much Does a 1MW Solar Power Plant Cost?

The estimated cost of a 1MW solar power plant is approximately ₹3.50 Cr. to ₹4 Cr., covering components, installation, service, and maintenance. These projects can be financed through rooftop solar loans, and many banking and non-banking institutions offer solar loans at low interest rates with minimal documentation.