Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has commissioned a 5-megawatt ground-mounted solar power plant and inaugurated a 30-ton electric arc furnace at its manufacturing complex in Haridwar. The developments mark an expansion of the facility’s capabilities in renewable energy generation and advanced metallurgical manufacturing.
The new infrastructure was formally dedicated on March 12, 2026, in the presence of Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries HD Kumaraswamy. During the visit, the minister also flagged off an upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM) for the Indian Navy and witnessed the dispatch of a turbo generator manufactured at the facility for a power generation project.
The solar power installation forms part of BHEL’s efforts to expand the use of renewable energy within its industrial operations. The ground-mounted solar project consists of more than 11,000 solar modules and is expected to generate approximately 9 million kilowatt-hours of electricity each year.
Speaking at the event, Mr Kumaraswamy said the project contributes to the country’s clean energy transition while helping reduce carbon emissions associated with industrial operations. The installation has been dedicated to the nation as part of efforts to strengthen India’s renewable energy capacity and encourage sustainable manufacturing practices.
Alongside the solar plant, BHEL also commissioned a 30-ton electric arc furnace at the Central Foundry and Forge Plant located within the Haridwar complex. The new furnace is expected to strengthen the company’s metallurgical capabilities by enabling the production of large castings and forged components required for heavy engineering applications.
The facility plays an important role in supplying components used in power generation equipment, industrial systems and defence manufacturing. According to officials, the new furnace will improve production efficiency and support the development of advanced components needed for modern engineering applications.
During the visit, the minister also flagged off an upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mount designed for the Indian Navy. The weapon system is capable of firing up to 120 rounds per minute and can engage targets at distances of up to 35 kilometres, enabling both anti-aircraft and anti-surface operations.
The SRGM is part of India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen indigenous defence manufacturing and enhance the capabilities of the armed forces through locally developed systems.The event also marked the dispatch of a turbo generator manufactured at the Haridwar complex for a power generation project. The equipment forms part of the turbines and generators produced by BHEL to support electricity generation infrastructure across India and international markets.
The BHEL Haridwar complex houses several major manufacturing units, including the Heavy Electrical Equipment Plant, which produces turbines and generators for thermal power stations, and the Central Foundry and Forge Plant, which manufactures large castings and forgings used in heavy engineering. Together, these facilities form one of the most important production centres within BHEL’s manufacturing network and play a key role in supplying equipment for the country’s power and industrial sectors.
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited is a government-owned engineering and manufacturing company specialising in the production of power generation equipment and industrial systems. Its products and technologies are widely used across sectors including electricity generation, heavy engineering and defence manufacturing.
It is a leading supplier of power plant equipment and has contributed significantly to India’s power generation capacity with its presence in thermal, hydro, nuclear, and gas-based projects. Beyond power, the company is also engaged in defence, aerospace, transportation, and renewable energy solutions. With a strong network of manufacturing plants, engineering units, and service centers across the country, BHEL plays a key role in supporting India’s industrial growth, infrastructure development, and the vision of self-reliance in advanced technology.
