Gandhinagar: Gujarat has operationalised Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) with a total capacity of 870 MW across five locations, including India’s first Solar Village, Modhera, strengthening the state’s renewable energy infrastructure and power backup capabilities, an official statement said today.

The state government has also registered 13 additional battery storage projects in Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Banaskantha, Patan and Kutch districts. The upcoming projects are expected to further enhance Gujarat’s ability to store renewable energy and supply electricity during peak demand hours, a press release stated.

As per the press note, Gujarat has emerged as one of the leading states in adopting advanced energy storage technologies. Officials said the initiatives would significantly contribute to India’s target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030, in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A new battery storage system was recently commissioned at Charal village in Sanand taluka of Ahmedabad district. Besides this, four other BESS facilities are currently operational in Modhera and Lakhpat in Kutch district.

The Gujarat government has incorporated advanced energy storage systems as a key component of the Gujarat Integrated Renewable Energy Policy-2025. The policy permits standalone battery storage projects, storage facilities linked to new renewable energy projects, and storage systems integrated with existing renewable energy infrastructure.

As per the press statement, once the standard operating procedure receives approval, battery storage registration will also be opened for commercial and industrial consumers. This will allow industries and businesses to integrate battery storage facilities with their solar and wind energy projects.

Why BESS is Important

Battery Energy Storage Systems are considered crucial for storing surplus electricity generated from renewable sources such as solar power. Since solar energy generation peaks during daytime hours and declines in the evening, excess electricity generated during the day can be stored and supplied later during periods of high demand.

The state government said the systems would help reduce pressure on the power grid during evening peak loads and ensure grid stability by supporting voltage and frequency regulation. In addition, the storage systems are expected to serve as emergency power backup infrastructure.

State’s Strategic Approach

The Gujarat government is promoting battery storage development through competitive bidding and strategic planning. Authorities are encouraging the installation of battery storage units near renewable energy projects to minimise transmission losses and improve energy efficiency.

GETCO and state power distribution companies are identifying suitable locations for battery storage systems based on grid capacity and operational requirements. Officials said the initiative would strengthen Gujarat’s clean energy ecosystem while improving overall power reliability across the state. DeshGujarat