Chennai Metro Water Turns to Solar Rooftops, Floating Plants To Cut Operational Costs

The Tamil Nadu government is taking a major step to promote renewable energy in the state and reduce the operational costs of Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) sites by installing rooftop solar panels and floating solar plants.

It is estimated that the CMWSSB spends around INR 300 crore per year to run its sites, with this figure expected to rise as new plants are commissioned.

To reduce energy consumption for operations and maintenance, the CMWSSB has proposed a plan to install renewable energy systems at its sites, including desalination plants, pumping stations, water distribution stations, and three lakes.

Subsequently, the Tamil Nadu Urban Infrastructure Financial Services Limited (TNUIFSL) has been tasked with appointing a suitable consultant to prepare a feasibility report for the proposed solar installations.

The project will be supported by the Project Development Grant Fund (PDGF), with funding from the KfW Development Bank.

Floating solar plants are being proposed at Poondi, Chembarambakkam, and Redhills lakes under a public-private partnership model.

Additionally, the CMWSSB has identified water treatment plants, desalination plants, sewage treatment plants, water distribution stations, and sewage pumping stations for the installation of rooftop solar systems.

Based on the feasibility study findings, the CMWSSB plans to design and implement a renewable energy strategy that is both sustainable and cost-effective.