In a significant boost to Bihar's renewable energy infrastructure, the Kajra Solar Power Plant in Lakhisarai district has successfully energised its critical 132 kV transmission line and a 100 MVA power transformer. This milestone, achieved under close monitoring, paves the way for reliable green power delivery to local consumers and strengthens the state's sustainable energy push.
A Major Milestone for Green Power Transmission
The energisation of the 132 kV line and the 33/132 kV power transformer was announced by Manoj Kumar Singh, the Energy Department Secretary and Chairman and Managing Director of Bihar State Power Holding Company Ltd (BSPHCL). The work was executed under intensive supervision by the Bihar State Power Generation Company Limited (BSPGCL) and the Bihar State Power Transmission Company Limited (BSPTCL).
The newly activated transmission line is connected from Grid Sub-stations at Haveli Kharagpur and Lakhisarai. This connection is crucial as it will ensure an uninterrupted power supply to consumers in the region. A key feature of this project is its ability to deliver solar power during the daytime and provide an additional 4 to 5 hours of electricity during peak evening hours, facilitated by its advanced Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).
Scale and Ambition of the Solar-Plus-Storage Project
Described as one of India's largest integrated solar and battery storage projects, the Kajra plant is being developed in two phases. Phase I, which includes the newly energised components, boasts a solar capacity of 185 MW coupled with a massive 254 MWh battery storage system. The investment for this first phase stands at approximately Rs 1,810 crore.
The project's Phase II is already on the horizon, targeting completion by January 2027. It aims to add another 116 MW of solar capacity and a 241 MWh BESS at an estimated cost of Rs 1,055 crore. Upon full completion, the Kajra Solar Power Plant will have a total installed capacity of 301 MW of solar power and a formidable 495 MWh of battery storage, making it a cornerstone of Bihar's clean energy strategy.
Boosting Infrastructure: Power Pact for Darbhanga Airport
In a related development highlighting infrastructure synergy, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for Darbhanga Airport and BSPTCL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday. This agreement focuses on ensuring a dedicated and reliable power supply for the airport's upcoming new terminal building.
As per the pact, BSPTCL will facilitate the installation of a new 33 kV dedicated bay at the GSS Gangwara substation. Furthermore, it will involve laying down 33 kV transmission lines from GSS Gangwara to the New Terminal Building at Darbhanga Airport. Specifically, BSPTCL will provide one 33 kV feeder bay to AAI, securing a robust power backbone for the critical aviation infrastructure.
Together, these initiatives underscore a concerted push by the state authorities to modernise Bihar's power transmission network, integrate large-scale renewable energy, and ensure reliable electricity access for both domestic consumers and vital public institutions.
