Patna, Bihar – In a major push towards clean energy, Energy secretary-cum-CMD of Bihar State Power Holding Corporation Limited (BSPHCL), Pankaj Kumar Pal, visited the Kajra solar project site in Lakhisarai district on Tuesday.
During his inspection, Pal instructed the executing agency, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), to complete the project ahead of its scheduled deadline of December 2025. He also emphasized the eco-friendly nature of the initiative, directing the project teams to preserve existing vegetation so that the development sets an example of sustainable growth.
Project Snapshot
Kajra Solar Project
High-capacity solar + storage with long-term O&M.
⚡ Capacity
185 MW
Solar power generation
🔋 Storage
254 MWh
Battery energy storage system
🛠️ O&M
10 Years
Operations & Maintenance by L&T
Grid-scale Solar
Solar + Storage
L&T O&M
Speaking on its importance, Pal highlighted that the project represents CM Nitish Kumar’s vision for promoting green energy and marks a key step in Bihar’s renewable energy roadmap.
A BSPHCL official added that the project will become a critical element in combating climate change while meeting the state’s growing electricity demand.
✨ With projects like Kajra, Bihar is setting the stage for a greener future and showcasing how solar power can lead India’s transition to clean, sustainable energy.
Introduction to Solar Power and Its Importance
Solar power refers to the process of harnessing the sun’s energy and converting it into electricity or heat. The sun emits an enormous amount of energy every second — enough to power the entire planet many times over. By capturing just a fraction of this energy, we can meet our growing electricity needs in a sustainable way.
🌞 Why is Solar Power Important?
- Clean Energy Source – Unlike fossil fuels, solar does not release harmful greenhouse gases.
- Abundant and Free – The sun shines everywhere, making solar a universally accessible energy source.
- Energy Independence – Countries can reduce reliance on imported fuels by adopting solar power.
- Job Creation – The solar industry is one of the fastest-growing employment sectors worldwide.
- Sustainable Future – Solar energy plays a crucial role in fighting global warming and building a green future.
How Solar Panels Work (Photovoltaic Effect)
At the heart of solar power lies the solar panel, which converts sunlight into electricity using the photovoltaic (PV) effect.
⚡ Step-by-Step Working of Solar Panels
- Sunlight Absorption – Solar panels are made up of solar cells (mostly silicon). When sunlight hits these cells, it knocks electrons loose.
- Generation of Electric Current – The movement of these free electrons creates a flow of electric current.
- Direct Current (DC) Production – Initially, solar panels produce DC electricity.
- Conversion to Alternating Current (AC) – An inverter converts DC into AC, which is the form of electricity used in homes and industries.
- Power Usage or Storage – The generated electricity can be used immediately, sent back to the grid, or stored in batteries for later use.
💡 Fun Fact: The first practical solar cell was developed in 1954 by Bell Laboratories with only 6% efficiency. Today, solar panels can reach over 22% efficiency!
Types of Solar Energy Systems (PV, CSP, Hybrid)
Solar energy can be harnessed in multiple ways. The three most common systems are:
☀️ Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
These are the most popular type, where solar panels convert sunlight directly into electricity. They can be rooftop systems (for homes) or large solar farms. Widely used due to low cost and simple installation.
🔍 Concentrated Solar Power (CSP)
CSP uses mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight into a small area. The concentrated heat produces steam that drives a turbine to generate electricity. Best suited for large-scale power plants rather than home use.
⚡ Hybrid Solar Systems
Combines solar PV with other sources like wind or diesel generators. Often includes battery storage for uninterrupted supply. Ideal for areas with unreliable grids.
