Gujarat has initiated battery energy storage systems (BESS) with a total capacity of 870 megawatts (MW) across five locations in the state, aimed at strengthening grid stability and supporting the growing integration of renewable energy, according to officials reported by PTI on Saturday.
Battery Storage Systems Rollout
Battery Energy Storage Systems are used to store electricity generated from solar and other renewable sources, helping manage fluctuations in supply and demand. An official release stated, “Gujarat has initiated battery storage systems at five locations with a total capacity of 870 MW.” In addition, the state has registered 13 more projects across Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Banaskantha, Patan, and Kutch districts for setting up additional battery storage facilities.
Pioneering Projects
According to the release, Modhera—India’s first solar village—has launched the country’s first BESS integrated with a solar power plant. “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state has continued to advance in this direction and has strengthened its position among the leading states driving battery storage systems in India,” the release added.
Recently, a battery storage system was commissioned at Charal in Ahmedabad district’s Sanand taluka, while four systems are already operational in Modhera (Mehsana district) and Lakhpat (Kutch). The Gujarat government has incorporated advanced energy storage systems as a key component in the Gujarat Integrated Renewable Energy Policy, 2025.
Policy Framework
Under the policy, approvals are being granted for standalone battery storage projects, projects linked to new renewable energy installations, and systems integrated with existing renewable infrastructure. The release said that once the Standard Operating Procedure is approved, commercial and industrial users will also be allowed to register battery storage projects alongside solar and wind energy systems.
The state government is inviting companies to participate in the development of battery storage systems through competitive bidding. GETCO (Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation) and power distribution companies are identifying strategic locations for battery storage facilities based on grid requirements and operational needs.
Benefits for Grid Stability
Officials noted that renewable energy generation, particularly from solar power, fluctuates during the day. Battery storage systems can store surplus electricity generated during peak sunlight hours for use during high-demand evening periods when solar output falls. The systems are expected to reduce pressure on the grid and improve overall grid stability, the release added.
With these initiatives, Gujarat continues to lead in renewable energy adoption and grid modernization, setting a benchmark for other states in India.
