Chandigarh, October 11, 2025 —Towards cleaner energy and economic growth, Punjab is launching a hybrid solar-thermal power project at the 1,400 MW Rajpura plant, undertaken by Nabha Power Limited (NPL) worth ₹641 crore to cut emissions by 15%, provide affordable electricity, and create 500 jobs for local youth.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann described the project as a “symbol of prosperity” and said it reflects the government’s vision of a clean, self-reliant, and investment-friendly Punjab.
Clean Energy Minister Aman Arora noted that the integration of solar energy into thermal generation represents a “key step in the state’s green revolution.”
The hybrid plant will function under a 25-year power purchase agreement with the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL). Scheduled to begin in December 2025, the project will be rolled out in phases through 2026, significantly strengthening the state’s renewable energy supply.
Rajpura already supplies a large portion of Punjab’s electricity — 40% during non-peak hours and 20% during peak hours. Officials said combining solar energy with the existing thermal output will reduce environmental impact while enhancing industrial energy availability. NPL was recently awarded by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) for its environmental initiatives.
The state’s wider renewable agenda includes 66 new solar plants generating 264 MW, rooftop solar installations producing 63.5 MW, and school-based solar panels yielding 2.89 crore units. PEDA has also collaborated with IISc Bangalore to develop hydrogen fuel from paddy straw. Additional projects, including canal-top solar plants and solar farms in Fazilka and Ferozepur, are underway, along with a ₹5,000 crore electricity infrastructure scheme aimed at ending power cuts statewide.
Officials said that these combined efforts have already created more than 2,000 jobs, which are expected to double by year-end, establishing Punjab as a leader in green energy and sustainable development.
