Mahesana: Modhera, which is famous for its Sun Temple, will now be recognised as solar powered village. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on October 9th, 2022 will declare Modhera as India’s first (24 x 7) round the clock BESS Solar Powered Village.

Talking about the solar power project at Modhera, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said, “I am happy that Gujarat has once again taken the lead in fulfilling Prime Minister’s vision of generating clean energy. We are committed to fulfil his resolve of producing 50% of India’s energy requirements through renewable energy by 2030.”

About the Project

Government of India and Government of Gujarat initiated the ‘Solarisation of Modhera Sun Temple and Town’ to provide 24 x 7 solar energy to Modhera through Solar Power project integrated with Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Sujjanpura in Mehsana, approx. 6 kms away from the Sun Temple, Modhera.

Government of Gujarat allotted 12 hectares of land for development of this project.

An amount of ₹ 80.66 crore has been spent on a 50:50 basis by GOI and GOG in two phases, i.e ₹69 crore in Phase-I and ₹11.66 crore in Phase II.

More than 1,300 1 kW rooftop solar systems have been installed on houses which generate electricity. The day time power is supplied through the solar panels. In the evening, the BESS provides power supply to the houses.

Salient Features

• Through this project, Modhera is the first village in India to become net renewable energy generator.

• To add, it is the first modern village having solar based ultra-modern electric vehicle charging station.

• India’s first grid connected MWh Scale Battery Energy Storage System

• People save 60% to 100 % in electricity bills.

Solarization of Sun Temple

The heritage lightings and 3-D projection at Sun temple will operate on solar energy. The 3-D projection will educate visitors with the history of Modhera. This projection will operate for 15-18 minutes during evening. Heritage lightings have been installed on the temple premises. Now, people can visit the temple from 6 pm to 10 pm to witness the lightings. The 3-D projection will operate from 7:00 to 7:30 pm every evening.

Zero power tariffs for people at Modhera

“Use of solar power has increased prosperity amongst citizens. Power bills were above ₹1000 and have almost reduced to zero today. Solar panels have been installed at all feasible houses, free of cost. In case of excess power, we earn extra income too.”

– Jatanben D.Thakor, Sarpanch , Modhera