Overview
Kunigal A is a 5.5 MW solar PV plant in Karnataka, India. Operational and contributing to India's renewable energy targets under national solar policies.
Kunigal A is a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant located near Kunigal in Karnataka, India. With a capacity of 5.5 MW, it is a small- to medium-scale solar facility that feeds clean electricity into the regional grid. The plant is operational and supports India's ambitious renewable energy goals. India's solar sector benefits from strong national policies, including the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission and state-level renewable energy targets. Karnataka has been a leading state for solar deployment, with favorable solar irradiation and supportive regulatory frameworks. The plant uses standard PV technology to convert sunlight into electricity. Environmentally, Kunigal A reduces reliance on fossil fuels and helps lower carbon emissions. Solar PV plants have minimal water usage and low operational emissions, though they require land for panel installation. The facility contributes to local energy security and aligns with India's commitment to 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
Environmental context
Solar PV plants like Kunigal A have a low environmental footprint during operation, with no air emissions or water consumption for power generation. However, land use for panel arrays can affect local ecosystems. Karnataka's semi-arid climate provides high solar insolation, making solar energy viable. The plant's location avoids sensitive habitats, and its small scale minimizes visual impact.
Frequently asked questions
Kunigal A is located near Kunigal in Karnataka, India, at coordinates 13.04 N, 76.923 E.
Kunigal A has a capacity of 5.5 megawatts (MW), making it a small- to medium-scale solar photovoltaic facility.
The operator of Kunigal A is not publicly listed, but the plant is operational and connected to the Indian grid.
India's solar sector is driven by the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission, aiming for 100 GW solar by 2022, and state-level renewable portfolio obligations. Karnataka has additional solar policies and high solar irradiation.
Solar PV plants have minimal operational emissions and water use, but require land for panels. They help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel dependence, contributing to India's climate goals.