Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana (PM-SSY)

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana (PM-SSY) on 31 July 2026 for developing floating solar photovoltaic projects with energy storage systems, with a total outlay of ₹5,070 crore.

Prelims Pointers

• Objective: Development of Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FSPV) projects with co-located Energy Storage Systems (ESS).
• Total Outlay: ₹5,070 crore.
• Target Capacity: 5,000 MW of floating solar projects.
• Energy Storage: Minimum storage capacity of two hours, totalling 10,000 MWh.
• Implementation Period: Projects to be sanctioned during FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31; financial support disbursement continues up to FY 2032–33.
• Central Financial Assistance (CFA):
  • ₹1 crore per MW for eligible floating solar projects after successful commissioning.
  • Up to ₹50 lakh per project for feasibility studies and preparatory activities.
• Estimated Floating Solar Potential: Approximately 102.18 GWp across reservoirs and suitable inland water bodies, as assessed by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE).
• Coverage: All States and Union Territories.
• Use of Water Bodies: Utilisation of existing reservoirs and industrial ponds, reducing competition for scarce land resources.
• Grid Reliability: Energy storage is expected to help strengthen grid reliability.
• Expected Impact:
  • Reduction of around 10 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.
  • Approximately 16,000–17,000 full-time equivalent employment opportunities.
  • Promotion of domestic manufacturing of floatation systems, PV cells, modules and energy storage systems.

Prelims Practice Question

Q. With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana (PM-SSY), consider the following statements:

1. It aims to develop floating solar photovoltaic projects with energy storage systems.
2. It envisages the development of 5,000 MW of floating solar projects.
3. It provides for a minimum energy storage capacity of two hours.
4. It is limited to a few selected States.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 1 and 4 only

(c) 2 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

Explanation

• Statement 1 – Correct: The scheme supports floating solar photovoltaic projects integrated with energy storage systems.
• Statement 2 – Correct: It targets 5,000 MW of floating solar capacity.
• Statement 3 – Correct: The co-located energy storage systems must have a minimum storage capacity of two hours.
• Statement 4 – Incorrect: All States and Union Territories are eligible to benefit from the scheme.